Delhi, the capital city of India, is well-known for its battle against air pollution. However, as seasons change, so do the dynamics of air quality. In recent reports, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has shown a moderate reading, indicating a transition from the more critical pollution levels it often experiences.
Around 6 am, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data reported an AQI of 162, falling within the ‘moderate’ category. A similar reading was noted by the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), which recorded an AQI of 173. These figures reflect an improvement in air quality compared to the hazardous levels that Delhi often contends with.
The key contributors to air pollution in Delhi are fine particulate matter known as PM 2.5 and PM 10. On this particular day, PM 10 levels were registered at 161, while PM 2.5 levels stood at 82. These readings provide insights into the different particle sizes suspended in the air, with PM 2.5 particles being finer and having more potential health impacts as they can penetrate deeper into the respiratory system.
The India Meteorological Department has predicted mainly clear skies for October 21, with a recorded temperature of 17.2 degrees Celsius in the early hours. The maximum and minimum temperatures for the National Capital Region (NCR) are expected to reach 32 and 16 degrees Celsius, respectively.
A detailed breakdown of the AQI at various monitoring stations across Delhi provides a more comprehensive view of the air quality. The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium reported an AQI of 190, indicating ‘moderate’ air quality. The CRRI Mathura Road station recorded a reading of 152, ITO station reported an AQI of 191, and Mandir Marg station noted a reading of 176, all within the ‘moderate’ category. These stations represent different parts of the city and reflect variations in air quality.
In certain areas, however, pollution levels were in the ‘poor’ category, demonstrating the persistence of air quality issues in Delhi. For instance, Burari reported an AQI of 275, Dwarka Sector-8 recorded an AQI of 251, Jahangirpuri registered 263, Rohini noted 247, and Wazirpur reported an AQI of 235, all within the ‘poor’ range. The Anand Vihar station recorded an AQI of 239, further highlighting air quality challenges in some parts of the city.
It is important to note that the AQI is categorized based on specific thresholds. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered ‘good,’ while 51 to 100 is ‘satisfactory.’ When the AQI falls between 101 and 200, it is classified as ‘moderate,’ as seen in Delhi recently. As pollution levels increase, the categories shift to ‘poor’ (201-300), ‘very poor’ (301-400), and ‘severe’ (401-500). These categories help individuals and authorities gauge the extent of air pollution and its potential health impacts.
Delhi’s ongoing battle with air pollution is closely linked to a variety of factors, including industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, construction activities, and weather conditions. As seasons change, some improvements in air quality can be observed. However, this temporary relief must be supplemented with sustainable measures to address the long-term challenges of air pollution in the city.
The government and relevant authorities continue to implement policies and strategies to combat air pollution. These efforts include promoting cleaner fuel technologies, enhancing public transportation, regulating construction activities, and enforcing measures to curb industrial emissions. Additionally, raising public awareness and encouraging individual actions, such as reducing vehicle emissions and minimizing outdoor exposure during high pollution days, are vital components of addressing the issue.