Delhi’s air quality continues to be a major concern, with the air quality index (AQI) recorded at an ‘unhealthy’ 214 as of 6:47 AM on October 22, 2024, according to data from aqi.in. This alarming reading indicates that the real-time PM2.5 concentration in the city is a staggering 10.5 times higher than the recommended limit set by the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 24-hour air quality guidelines.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported that the 24-hour average AQI in Delhi reached a concerning 310 at 4 PM on October 21, with 26 out of 36 monitoring stations registering levels in the ‘very poor’ category (red zone).
The Culprits Behind Delhi’s Poor Air Quality
Several factors contribute to the worsening air quality in the national capital, with dust pollution, high levels of transportation emissions, and stubble burning emerging as the primary culprits. According to the Centre’s Decision Support System for Air Quality Management, transportation emissions account for approximately 10.9% of Delhi’s air pollution. Satellite data from October 21 revealed 65 farm fires reported in Punjab, two in Haryana, and 25 in Uttar Pradesh, further adding to the air pollution woes.
GRAP Stage II Implemented: A Fight Against Pollution
In response to the alarmingly high air pollution levels, the second stage of the city’s Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP Stage II) came into effect on October 22. This stage brings stricter measures to combat air pollution, including a complete ban on the use of coal and firewood, even in tandoors at hotels, restaurants, and open eateries. Diesel generator sets are also prohibited, except for emergency and essential services.
Understanding GRAP: A Multi-Stage Plan
GRAP is a comprehensive set of anti-air pollution measures implemented in Delhi and its surrounding areas, designed to address the severity of air quality levels. It categorizes air quality in the Delhi-NCR into four stages:
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Stage I – ‘Poor’ (AQI 201-300):
Mildest stage, with basic measures in place.*
Stage II – ‘Very Poor’ (AQI 301-400):
Increased restrictions on industries and construction activities.*
Stage III – ‘Severe’ (AQI 401-450):
More stringent measures, including vehicle restrictions and closure of schools.*
Stage IV – ‘Severe Plus’ (AQI>450):
Most severe stage, with emergency measures implemented.The CPCB defines the AQI as follows: 0-50 is considered ‘good’, 51-100 ‘satisfactory’, 101-200 ‘moderate’, 201-300 ‘poor’, 301-400 ‘very poor’, and 401-500 ‘severe’.
With the alarmingly high AQI levels and the implementation of GRAP Stage II, the residents of Delhi are urged to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the harmful effects of air pollution.