• Source:JND

Delhi-NCR Pollution: The air quality of Delhi and nearby cities has worsened severely in the past two days, leading to the enforcement of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) stage 4 on Saturday. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) announced the enforcement of GRAP 4 just a few hours after implementing GRAP Stage 3 due to a sudden surge in air pollution. The authority stated that the air quality is not likely to improve in the upcoming days, further advising the residents to follow the guidelines and limit their outings to avoid any inconveniences. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has also stated that the temperature in the national capital is likely to drop by two to three degrees Celsius.

Delhi Air Pollution: Key Reason

Earlier on Saturday, the CAQM clarified that the situation has not worsened due to the local factors. While explaining the reasons, the authority stated that the Western Disturbance approaching northwest India was the main contributing factor behind the worsened air quality. It further assured that the situation is likely to slightly improve in the next week; however, the air quality will still remain in the 'very poor' category.

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As per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi's average AQI was recorded at 458 at 11 am. While the AQI of Noida was recorded at 455, Greater Noida's AQI was recorded at 442. An AQI within 0-50 is considered 'good'. While the AQI between 51 and 100 is considered 'satisfactory', the AQI between 101 and 200 is considered 'moderate'. The AQI between 201 and 300 is considered 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor,' and 401 and 500 'severe'.

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The residents are also likely to witness thick fog in the early hours, severely affecting the visibility. The health ministry has advised the residents to limit their outings and wear a mask during the outdoor activities to limit the damage.


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