Delhi’s Air Quality Worsens: Smog Covers City, Residents Concerned
On a Wednesday morning, New Delhi was shrouded in a thick layer of smog, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 354, indicating ‘very poor’ air quality. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated stage two of the anti-pollution plan, GRAP. According to SAFAR, the AQI was recorded at 354 around 7 am.
Residents across the city, including areas like India Gate, Aerocity, and Lodhi Road, are experiencing health issues due to the pollution. A local from Lodhi Road mentioned the increase in pollution over the last two days, attributing it to stubble burning and vehicular emissions. Dharmraj, a cyclist on Kartavya Path, reported throat irritation and eye discomfort, urging leaders to find solutions.
Prasad, from the ITO area, highlighted the need for government action, suggesting water cannons as a potential measure. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change forecasts that the AQI will remain in the ‘very poor’ category due to unfavorable weather conditions.
The CAQM has implemented an 11-point action plan under Stage II of GRAP, which includes road sweeping, water sprinkling, and inspections at construction sites. Citizens are encouraged to use public transport and avoid activities that generate dust.
Doubts Revealed
AQI -: AQI stands for Air Quality Index. It is a number used to communicate how polluted the air currently is or how polluted it is forecast to become. The higher the number, the worse the air quality.
CAQM -: CAQM stands for Commission for Air Quality Management. It is a body set up by the Indian government to manage and improve air quality in the National Capital Region and surrounding areas.
GRAP -: GRAP stands for Graded Response Action Plan. It is a set of measures that are implemented in Delhi to control air pollution, depending on the severity of the air quality.
Smog -: Smog is a type of air pollution that looks like a thick fog. It is caused by a mixture of smoke and fog, often from vehicle emissions and industrial activities.
Stubble burning -: Stubble burning is the practice of setting fire to the straw stubble that remains after grains like rice and wheat have been harvested. It is a common practice in some parts of India and contributes to air pollution.
Ministry of Environment -: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change is a part of the Indian government. It is responsible for planning, promoting, and coordinating environmental and forestry programs in the country.
