Delhi AQI Today: Air Quality Remains ‘Very Poor’ After Diwali

Delhi continues to suffer from severe smog and hazardous air. It is due to pollution levels uncomfortably high two days after the Diwali celebrations. Notwithstanding all efforts and restrictions, the air quality in the city remains in the “very poor” range on the Air Quality Index (AQI). With residents experiencing breathing problems amidst their hopes for a return to “good to moderate” air quality, almost anything better than the current state in their longing. In the trending news today, the emergency measures are intensified as part of Stage 2 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Officials continue to respond to the pollution crisis.

Delhi Wakes Up to Dense Smog

Residents of Delhi woke up on the morning of Wednesday, October 22nd to a thick layer of smoke and haze engulfing the city. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported to people of the National Capital a total AQI of 345, again, ranking it as “very poor.”

Different areas such as Ashok Vihar, Bawana, and Dilshad Garden had AQI levels near 380. They are sitting among the highest area readings in the city. Overall, across 38 total monitoring stations in Delhi, most stations had levels somewhere between 300 and 400. A few such as IGI Airport, DTU and Lodhi Road performed somewhat better having AQI levels even below 300. However still the AQI is ranked as “poor.”

Experts warn that breathing this type of air over a long period may lead to breathing problems. This is especially for children, the elderly, and anyone with already established health conditions such as asthma and bronchitis.

CAQM Executes Stage 2 of GRAP

On October 19 the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) activated Stage 2 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) as pollution continued to degrade. The plan involves implementing a set of emergency measures aimed at reducing sources of pollution and reducing particulate matter in the air.

Under Stage 2, the CAQM has given instructions to:

• Regularly mechanically/vacuum sweep and water spray on major roads in order to manage dust.
• Increase parking fees to deter use of private vehicles.
• Improve dust control at construction and demolition sites.
• Increase frequency of public transportation (buses and metro).
• Implement control of DG (diesel generator) sets in order to reduce emissions.

Officials have been instructed to provide a continued supply of electricity. Also, not use DG sets which results in poor air quality.

The CAQM declaration also states:

“Implement water sprinkling and use dust suppressants (at least every other day) on roads to control road dust, especially in hotspots and other congested areas.” Collected dust should be disposed of appropriately in designated landfills.

More Pollution After Diwali

Delhi has recently reported its worst air quality after Diwali in four years. On the evening of Diwali, PM2.5 – fine particulate matter capable of penetrating lungs – reached 675 µg/m³, which was significantly above any precautionary level.

Although the Supreme Court limited firecracker use between 8 PM and 10 PM on Diwali, many residents ignored the two-hour rule, which contributed substantially to the rise.

The BJP government blamed stubble burning in neighboring Punjab, which is under AAP jurisdiction, for contributing to Delhi’s problems. Environmental scientists said the combination of firecracker exhaust, low wind, and stubble burning was a toxic mix that caused pollution to not dissipate and trap pollutants over Delhi.

Continuing Crisis

Air quality in Delhi is still one of the leading public health challenges in India. Each year after Diwali, the city suffers the buildup of smog, despite ongoing government measures and warnings of abandonment to air quality levels.

Scientists say while immediate emergency measures are helpful, long-term strategies are needed for real change – like new tougher emission standards, terms of available green public transport, and limitations on stubble burning.

Until then, the residents of Delhi persist in their fight for clean air, as today’s trending news once more emphasizes the ongoing pollution crisis affecting India’s capital.