Delhi-NCR Air Quality Deteriorates to ‘Poor’ Category, Stage I Measures Activated

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has initiated Stage I measures of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the National Capital Region (NCR) as air quality levels have fallen into the “poor” category. This decision was made on Thursday following a noticeable decline in air quality across the region, signaling the need for immediate intervention.

GRAP is designed to implement a series of escalating anti-pollution measures aimed at preventing further deterioration of air quality once it surpasses predetermined thresholds. The initial stage comprises a range of actions, including mechanical road sweeping and the sprinkling of water to suppress dust particles. Additionally, it places restrictions on certain construction and demolition activities, which are major contributors to air pollution.

As reported by the Sameer application, the average Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi reached a concerning figure of 241 by 9:05 AM on Friday, firmly placing it in the “poor” category. The situation is equally dire in neighboring regions; Noida’s AQI was recorded at 275, Greater Noida at 322, and Ghaziabad at a staggering 329. In Haryana, Gurugram also reported poor air quality with an AQI of 243, while Faridabad logged a relatively better score of 178.

Just one day prior, on Thursday, Delhi’s average AQI was noted at 226, indicating a consistent trend of degrading air quality. The AQI system categorizes air quality as follows: a score between 0-50 is considered “good,” 51-100 is deemed “satisfactory,” and 101-200 is labeled as “moderate.” As the index rises, the health risks associated with poor air quality also escalate, particularly affecting vulnerable populations like children and the elderly.

Authorities have emphasized the importance of complying with these measures to combat pollution effectively. The GRAP framework is essential for managing air quality in this densely populated region, especially as the winter season approaches, which typically exacerbates pollution levels due to stagnant weather patterns. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and adopt precautionary measures, such as limiting outdoor activities and using air purifiers, to mitigate health risks associated with poor air quality.

Source: scroll.in