Severe Smog in Delhi: Akshardham Records AQI of 466
On a Wednesday evening, a thick layer of smog covered parts of Delhi, including the Akshardham area, where the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached a severe level of 466, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Earlier that day, the AQI in Delhi was recorded at 361, categorized as ‘very poor’.
Residents have reported low visibility and health issues such as eye irritation, runny noses, breathlessness, and coughing. Upendra Singh, a local resident, expressed concerns about the increasing pollution and dropping temperatures, which have exacerbated these problems.
In response, the Central government, in consultation with CPCB, has exempted certain industrial plants from specific pollution control regulations. These exemptions apply to industries with a pollution index score up to 20, including air cooler assembly, bicycle assembly, and bio-fertilizer production, among others.
The Supreme Court emphasized that living in a pollution-free environment is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. The court criticized the authorities for not enforcing the ban on firecrackers during Diwali, highlighting that such activities compromise citizens’ health.
Doubts Revealed
Smog -: Smog is a type of air pollution that looks like a thick fog. It is caused by smoke and other pollutants mixing with the air, making it hard to see and breathe.
Delhi -: Delhi is the capital city of India. It is a very big city with lots of people, cars, and industries, which can sometimes cause pollution problems.
Akshardham -: Akshardham is a famous temple in Delhi. It is known for its beautiful architecture and is a popular place for visitors.
AQI -: AQI stands for Air Quality Index. It is a number that tells us how clean or polluted the air is. A higher number means the air is more polluted.
Central government -: The Central government is the main government of India. It makes important decisions for the whole country, including rules about pollution.
Supreme Court -: The Supreme Court is the highest court in India. It makes important decisions about laws and rights for all people in the country.
Article 21 -: Article 21 is a part of the Indian Constitution. It says that everyone has the right to live in a safe and healthy environment.
Firecracker bans -: Firecracker bans are rules that stop people from using firecrackers. This is because firecrackers can cause a lot of pollution and make the air unhealthy, especially during festivals like Diwali.
Diwali -: Diwali is a popular festival in India, also known as the Festival of Lights. People celebrate it with lights, sweets, and sometimes firecrackers.