- Delhi's AQI likely to hit 'severe' by November 6.
- GRAP Stage 3 implementation possible due to worsening air.
- Existing pollution curbs have not significantly improved air quality.
Delhi is heading towards a heavily polluted Diwali, with the capital's air quality expected to deteriorate further over the coming days. The Air Quality Index (AQI), which is currently in the 'very poor' category, could enter the 'severe' zone by Friday, November 6, coinciding with Dhanteras.
Forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) suggest that Delhi is unlikely to get any significant relief from pollution over the next six days. With air quality continuing to worsen, authorities may soon consider implementing Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
Delhi's Pollution Curbs Yet To Bring Relief
The capital is currently operating under Stage 2 of GRAP. Measures include mechanical sweeping of roads, water sprinkling to control dust, monitoring construction sites and action against polluting activities.
However, these restrictions have failed to bring a noticeable improvement in air quality. The ban on the entry of non-BS-VI vehicles registered in the National Capital Region (NCR) has also not been enough to contain pollution levels.
According to the IMD and IITM Pune's early warning system, Delhi's AQI is likely to remain in the 'very poor' category on Thursday, November 5, before potentially deteriorating to 'severe' on Friday and Saturday. The forecast also indicates that severe air quality could persist through the remainder of the week.
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Wind Conditions Unlikely To Disperse Pollutants
Northwesterly winds are expected to blow at around 12 kmph during the morning before picking up to 20-22 kmph in the afternoon. However, wind speeds are likely to decline during the evening and night, limiting the dispersal of pollutants.
Light fog or mist may also develop in some areas during the morning hours.
Weather conditions are expected to remain largely clear over the next few days. The maximum temperature is likely to range between 27 and 29 degrees Celsius, while the minimum may remain between 15 and 17 degrees Celsius.
Despite relatively stable weather, changing wind speeds and unfavourable pollutant dispersion are unlikely to prevent air quality from deteriorating further.
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What Stage 3 Of GRAP Could Mean
If Delhi's AQI continues to rise, authorities may implement Stage 3 of GRAP, bringing additional restrictions to tackle pollution.
One of the key measures under this stage is a comprehensive ban on construction and demolition activities, subject to the applicable exemptions. The move would add to the restrictions already in force under the first two stages of the pollution-control plan.
With Diwali approaching, the coming days will be crucial in determining whether Delhi faces another spell of severe air pollution during the festive period.