With air pollution levels spiking across India, the central government has issued a stern warning to all states, urging them to take immediate action to curb the worsening situation, particularly during the Diwali celebrations. The Union Health Ministry has outlined a comprehensive plan, emphasizing public awareness campaigns, healthcare preparedness, and individual responsibility to mitigate the health risks associated with air pollution.
Delhi’s air quality saw a slight improvement on Friday morning, registering an AQI of 283 in the ‘poor’ category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This marks a significant dip from Thursday’s ‘very poor’ category, but experts warn of deteriorating conditions over the weekend due to unfavorable weather conditions and continued stubble burning.
The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has doubled parking fees for its indoor and off-road facilities in an effort to discourage private vehicle use and combat rising air pollution. This move, implemented under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)-II, aims to tackle Delhi’s worsening air quality index (AQI), currently classified as ‘very poor’ at 349.
Despite a decrease in stubble burning incidents in Punjab and Haryana, Delhi’s air quality continues to face seasonal challenges, with the AQI recorded at ‘very poor’ on October 23. A new study highlights the complex interplay of factors affecting Delhi’s air quality, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts across states to address the issue.
North India is grappling with a severe air pollution crisis even before the arrival of winter. Delhi, the national capital, is among the worst affected cities, with air quality reaching alarming levels. The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-II) has been implemented in Delhi-NCR to address the escalating situation, but the city’s air quality is predicted to remain in the ‘Very Poor’ category for the coming days due to unfavorable weather conditions.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated the second stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-II) in Delhi-NCR, bringing stricter measures to combat worsening air quality. This article explains GRAP, CAQM, and the specific actions under GRAP Stage 2, urging citizens to participate in reducing air pollution.
Delhi’s air quality has deteriorated to ‘very poor’ levels, a worrying sign as Diwali approaches. Stubble burning, vehicular emissions, and unidentified pollution sources contribute to the worsening air quality, threatening public health. The government has implemented measures to control pollution, but the situation remains dire, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive solutions.
Delhi’s Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, launched the ‘Red Light On, Gaadi Off’ campaign on Monday, October 21st, aiming to curb vehicular emissions and combat the city’s notorious air pollution, especially during winter months. The campaign encourages drivers to switch off their engines while waiting at red lights, a simple yet effective step to reduce harmful emissions. Rai also blamed neighboring states for increasing stubble burning incidents, urging them to cooperate with Delhi’s efforts to combat pollution.
Delhi’s air quality, currently in the ‘poor’ category, is expected to deteriorate to ‘very poor’ between Monday and Wednesday due to rising stubble burning in neighboring states. While stubble burning contributes a small percentage to Delhi’s overall pollution, the trend is worrying, and experts point to unidentified sources contributing a significant portion of the problem.
A recent survey has unveiled the stark reality of Delhi-NCR’s air pollution crisis, revealing that three out of 10 families have at least one member suffering from health issues due to the toxic air. The study, conducted by Local Circles, highlights the alarming impact of pollution on the region’s residents, with a majority experiencing symptoms like sore throat, cough, and breathing difficulties. The survey also reveals that despite rising pollution levels and government intervention, a significant proportion of residents are choosing to adapt and cope with the crisis, opting for air purifiers and boosting their immune systems instead of relocating.
