Delhi’s Air Quality Worsens to ‘Severe’ Category
The air quality in Delhi has become a major concern as it worsened to the ‘severe’ category. After Diwali celebrations, the Air Quality Index (AQI) has been in the ‘very poor’ category and has now reached 420, according to SAFAR. A thick smog has covered the city for three days, reducing visibility in areas like AIIMS and Akshardham Temple.
Impact on Residents and Measures Taken
Residents continue their daily activities despite the poor air quality. The AQI in Anand Vihar was recorded at 441, indicating severe pollution. Truck drivers are worried about their livelihoods due to restrictions on certain vehicles as part of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-II) implemented by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM).
Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)
GRAP is divided into four stages based on air quality: Stage I (‘poor’), Stage II (‘very poor’), Stage III (‘severe’), and Stage IV (‘severe plus’). Stage III has been activated later this year compared to 2023. The plan includes halting construction work and restricting BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles.
The CAQM urges citizens to use cleaner transport, work from home, and avoid using coal and wood for heating. Public cooperation is essential to reduce health risks from pollution.
Doubts Revealed
Air Quality Index (AQI) -: The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a number used to tell how clean or polluted the air is. A higher number means the air is more polluted and can be harmful to health.
Severe Category -: The ‘Severe’ category in air quality means the air is very polluted and can cause health problems for everyone, especially those with breathing issues.
Smog -: Smog is a mix of smoke and fog, making the air look hazy and dirty. It can make it hard to see and breathe.
AIIMS -: AIIMS stands for All India Institute of Medical Sciences, a famous hospital and medical college in Delhi.
Akshardham Temple -: Akshardham Temple is a large and beautiful Hindu temple in Delhi, known for its stunning architecture.
Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) -: The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a set of rules to control air pollution in Delhi. It has different stages, and Stage III means stricter rules to reduce pollution.
CAQM -: CAQM stands for Commission for Air Quality Management, a group that works to improve air quality in Delhi and nearby areas.
