New Delhi: Again, the residents of Delhi have been confronted with the reality of breathing in polluted air as the air quality index (AQI) in the capital city remained in the ‘severe’ category on Friday. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), unfavorable weather conditions hindered the dispersal of pollutants.
As of 5 am, areas like Anand Vihar, RK Puram, IGI Airport, and Dwarka reported AQI readings exceeding 400. Anand Vihar recorded a concerning AQI of 447, with PM2.5 being the pollutant. RK Puram, IGI Airport, and Dwarka recorded AQI values of 465, 467, and 490, respectively – indicating levels of air pollution.
Noida and Greater Noida in Uttar Pradesh experienced some relief as their air quality remained in the ‘very poor’ category; however, it still poses health risks. Noida Sector 125 registered an AQI of 352 while Knowledge Park. III in Greater Noida recorded an AQI of 314.
Unfortunately, Gurugram in Haryana did not witness any respite with an AQI reading of 444 at Sector 51 at 5 am, according to CPCB data. Delhi’s average AQI over a span of twenty-four hours stood at 419 on Thursday at 4 pm – reflecting severe air quality conditions. Neighboring regions such as Ghaziabad, Gurugram, Greater Noida, and Faridabad also documented varying levels ranging from poor to severe air quality conditions.
According to a study conducted by the Delhi government and IIT Kanpur, it was discovered that on Wednesday, vehicular emissions were responsible for 38% of the air pollution in the capital. However, this percentage decreased to 25% on Thursday.
The accumulation of pollutants has been facilitated by winds and low temperatures, as reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Unfortunately, there doesn’t seem to be any relief from this situation in the days. The official suggested that an improvement in wind speed from November 21 onwards might bring down air pollution levels.
Despite stringent measures implemented by the Delhi government, including a construction ban and restrictions on diesel-guzzling trucks, the city’s air quality continues to deteriorate, posing a significant concern for residents.
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