The air quality in Delhi, Noida, and Gurugram remains a cause for concern as it falls into the ‘Very Poor’ category, with Air Quality Index (AQI) levels ranging from 314 to 324, according to data from the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) as of 7 am. Despite a 15-point winter action plan aimed at mitigating the rising pollution levels, the battle against deteriorating air quality continues in the National Capital Region. Initiatives like ‘Red Light on, Gaadi off’ are underway to combat vehicular emissions and biomass burning, both of which contribute to elevated PM2.5 levels. The forecast predicts that ‘Very Poor’ air quality will persist in the region from October 29 to 31, 2023.
Mumbai’s Air Quality Maintains ‘Moderate’ Levels:
In contrast to the North, Mumbai’s air quality remains in the ‘Moderate’ category with an AQI of 128 as per SAFAR-India’s data. Here are some specific AQI levels in various areas of Mumbai:
- AQI in Borivali: 22
- AQI in Malad: 147
- AQI in Bhandup: 142
- AQI in Navi Mumbai: 128
- AQI in Colaba: 169
- AQI in Mazgaon: 162
Aam Aadmi Party Criticizes the Central Government:
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has taken issue with the Central Government’s response to the ongoing air quality crisis in Northern India. AAP Senior Leader and National Spokesperson, Reena Gupta, voiced her concerns during a press conference. Gupta alleged that the entire Northern region of India is grappling with severe air pollution, but the Central Government lacks a concrete action plan to address the issue.
Gupta further highlighted that a significant portion of Delhi’s air pollution (approximately 70 percent) originates from outside Delhi, particularly from states ruled by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). She noted that on October 24, the Central Government shut down the SAFAR website, a system designed for monitoring air quality and weather forecasting, just as concerns about external sources of pollution were being raised. The move to close the website has drawn criticism and raised questions about transparency and accountability in addressing air quality issues in the region.
Air quality issues in Delhi, Noida, and Gurugram persist in the ‘Very Poor’ range, prompting ongoing efforts to combat pollution. The significant number of farm fires in Punjab adds to the challenge. In contrast, Mumbai maintains ‘Moderate’ air quality. The Aam Aadmi Party has criticized the Central Government for its handling of the air pollution crisis, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive and collaborative approach to address the issue, including addressing sources of pollution beyond Delhi’s borders.
