Delhi’s AQI at Hazardous Levels: How India’s Capital Battles Air Pollution in National Capitals
Visibility was severely reduced Wednesday morning as a thick layer of pollution engulfed Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad and other areas of the National Capital Region (NCR). The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reports that the air quality index (AQI) is still classified as “very poor.”
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According to CPCB data around 5 a.m. on Wednesday, the average AQI in Anand Vihar, Delhi was 393 and currently 689 AQI. The primary pollutant in Delhi was PM2.5 and the AQI was 1133 (hazardous), according to live ratings from the Swiss organisation IQAir.
There was less visibility in the morning due to the pollution, shallow to moderate fog, and mist. Experts predict that the foggy conditions will continue into the evening and night, which will further limit vision and raise health concerns for locals, particularly those who have respiratory conditions.
Since October 30 when it was reported at 307 AQI, the AQI has been in the “very poor” or “Hazardous” category continuously till now.
Reasons Behind the Air Pollution:
Delhi’s increased air pollution is frequently blamed on stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana following the paddy crop’s harvest in October and November.
The air quality on Tuesday was classified as “very poor” in Chandigarh and “poor” in numerous areas of Punjab and Haryana. According to data, Punjab saw 83 new farm fires bringing the total to 7,112.
The air quality issue in Delhi-NCR is being made worse by meteorological circumstances. High humidity and low wind speeds are among the causes of the ongoing pollution, according to experts. Pollutants are normally scattered by wind, which carries them away from crowded areas. However, the calm weather that is currently prevailing over Delhi is causing pollutants to remain immobile. Low winds and heavy moisture retain pollutants close to the ground, making it difficult for the smoke to disperse.
As long as the weather stays mostly the same, this situation is predicted to continue, which could lead to a further decrease of the air quality in the days ahead. It seems doubtful that pollution levels will decrease quickly unless there is a major change in weather patterns.
Over Time Health Risks of Exposure:
Serious health issues have a strong connection with poor air quality. People who are exposed to high pollution levels experience a range of symptoms from minor to serious. Coughing, throat irritation and breathlessness are common health impacts. More severe exposure can cause exhaustion, chest pain and worsening of long-term respiratory conditions including asthma.
Experts stress that prolonged exposure can increase the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular disorders especially in susceptible populations like children, the elderly and people with underlying medical issues.
Health experts are observing a rise in respiratory conditions among Delhi’s citizens as the city’s air quality index deteriorates. More cases of bronchitis, asthma and other illnesses linked to pollution have been reported to hospitals. Limiting outdoor activities, particularly intense exercise which raises the danger of breathing in additional pollutants is advised by health professionals. To lessen exposure, it is also advised to wear masks, use air purifiers indoors and keep an eye on the quality of the air via official sources or mobile apps.
Government Actions:
The government has made a number of attempts to lessen the consequences of Delhi’s pollution problem but the results are yet unknown. To reduce pollution sources, the authorities have stepped up their monitoring of industrial pollutants, automobile emissions and building activity. The Delhi government has also been encouraging the use of public transit to lessen traffic on the roads and has reinstated the “Odd-Even” vehicle plan in the past to reduce automobile pollution.
