Thick smog engulfs parts of Mumbai; AQI reaches 225 in Worli
Mumbai and Delhi Struggle with Poor Air Quality
On Monday morning, Mumbai experienced a thick layer of smog with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 147, categorized as 'moderate'. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) reported an AQI of 153, Abhinav Nagar Borivali East recorded 176, and Shastri Garden Worli had a 'poor' AQI of 225. Chembur near Tata Institute of Social Science (TISS) reported 158, and Sewri recorded 195. SAFAR advised reducing heavy exertion due to the 'unusually sensitive' air quality.
Meanwhile, Delhi's air quality worsened significantly, with the AQI reaching 'severe plus' levels at 483. A toxic foam was seen on the Yamuna River, causing breathing difficulties and eye irritation among residents. Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) implemented low visibility procedures, though flights remained normal. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi announced the suspension of physical classes for students, except for classes 10 and 12, due to the implementation of GRAP-4. Online classes will continue until further notice. Environment Minister Gopal Rai planned a meeting to ensure effective GRAP IV implementation.
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 AQI, the more polluted the air is.
Moderate
In the context of AQI, 'moderate' means that the air quality is acceptable; however, there may be some pollution that could affect a very small number of people who are sensitive to air pollution.
Severe plus
When AQI is 'severe plus', it means the air quality is extremely poor. It can cause serious health problems for everyone, not just those who are sensitive to pollution.
SAFAR
SAFAR stands for System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research. It is an initiative by the Indian government to monitor air quality and provide forecasts to help people plan their activities.
Toxic foam
Toxic foam is a harmful substance that forms on water bodies like rivers due to pollution. It can be dangerous for health if people come into contact with it or if it affects the water supply.
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 often suffers from pollution.
Chief Minister
The Chief Minister is the head of the government in an Indian state. In this context, the Chief Minister of Delhi is responsible for making decisions to protect the health and well-being of the people in the city.
Environment Minister
The Environment Minister is a government official responsible for policies and actions related to the environment. In Delhi, this person works on issues like air quality and pollution control.
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