Delhi’s Air Quality Deteriorates Before Diwali
On the eve of Diwali, a thin layer of smog enveloped New Delhi, with the air quality remaining in the ‘very poor’ category. The Central Pollution Control Board reported an Air Quality Index (AQI) of over 300 at 7:00 am. Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 351, Bawana 319, Ashok Vihar 351, and Wazipur 327, all in the ‘very poor’ category. Aya Nagar and ITO had slightly better air quality, falling in the ‘poor’ category with AQIs of 290 and 284, respectively.
Pollution in the Yamuna River
Toxic foam was observed on the Yamuna River at Kalindi Kunj, indicating high pollution levels in the river.
Air Quality in Mumbai
In contrast, Mumbai’s Bandra Reclamation area experienced ‘Moderate’ air quality.
Stubble Burning Concerns
Delhi BJP leaders reported 108 stubble burning incidents in Punjab on October 26. They protested against Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, seeking a meeting to address air pollution concerns but were unable to meet him. Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva criticized the AAP leadership for blaming Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, despite data showing fewer incidents in these states compared to Punjab.
Doubts Revealed
Air Quality -: Air quality refers to how clean or polluted the air is. It is measured using the Air Quality Index (AQI), which tells us how safe the air is to breathe.
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.
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 major cause of air pollution in India.
Diwali -: Diwali is a major Hindu festival celebrated in India, known as the Festival of Lights. It involves lighting lamps, bursting crackers, and celebrating with family and friends.
Toxic Foam -: Toxic foam is a harmful substance that forms on water bodies due to pollution. It is often caused by chemicals and waste being dumped into rivers, making the water unsafe.
Yamuna River -: The Yamuna River is one of the major rivers in India, flowing through several states including Delhi. It is an important water source but is heavily polluted.
BJP -: BJP stands for Bharatiya Janata Party, which is one of the two major political parties in India. It is currently the ruling party at the national level.
AAP -: AAP stands for Aam Aadmi Party, a political party in India. It is known for its focus on anti-corruption and governance issues, and it currently governs Delhi.
Punjab’s CM -: Punjab’s CM refers to the Chief Minister of Punjab, who is the head of the government in the Indian state of Punjab. The CM is responsible for the administration of the state.