Delhi’s air quality plummets: ‘Severe’ levels spread, government calls urgent review meeting
Delhi’s air pollution levels remain “severe” for a second day, recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 381 on Monday. This reading is one of the highest in the country. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) noted that 17 monitoring stations reported “severe” AQI levels, an increase from 15 on Sunday. In many areas, pollution levels exceeded 400.
The 24-hour AQI average at 4 PM on Monday was slightly lower than Sunday’s 382. However, areas such as Ashok Vihar, Alipur, Bawana, and Dwarka reported the worst conditions. According to AQI classifications, levels above 450 are categorized as “severe plus.”
Experts attribute the high pollution levels to weather changes post-Diwali, noting that calmer winds have hindered pollutant dispersion. The Supreme Court expressed concern over the ineffective enforcement of Delhi’s firecracker ban during Diwali celebrations. It urged the Delhi government and police to explain their actions regarding the ban’s enforcement and take serious action against violators.
In response to the crisis, Environment Minister Gopal Rai scheduled a review meeting for Tuesday to evaluate the Winter Action Plan’s effectiveness. Delhi’s AQI is the second-highest in the nation, following Sri Ganganagar in Rajasthan. Nearby areas like Noida and Hisar also reported “very poor” air quality.
Mahesh Palawat, Vice President of Skymet, warned that pollution levels could rise further due to adverse weather. He stated, “No major western disturbance is expected soon. Without wind, pollution may spike again.”
Priyanka Singh from the Council on Energy, Environment, and Water highlighted a jump in AQI from 339 on November 1 to 381 on November 4, citing decreased wind speeds and increased farm fires in Punjab and Haryana.
Looking ahead, the Air Quality Early Warning System predicts AQI levels may exceed 400 until November 9. Experts emphasize the need for stricter stubble burning regulations and effective implementation of dust control measures. Meanwhile, temperatures in Delhi are expected to remain elevated, contributing to ongoing smoggy conditions.
