The air quality of Delhi deteriorates every year during the winter season, with the levels dropping significantly after Diwali celebrations. This year, the air quality index of Delhi shows that the pollution levels are at an all-time high, just days ahead of Diwali.
On Tuesday, the air quality in Delhi entered the ‘very poor’ category for the first time ahead of Diwali, and it is predicted that the quality might dip even further after Diwali. The reason for the decreasing air quality has also been communicated by the authorities.
The local authorities have said that the poor air quality is due to unfavourable conditions for the dispersion of pollutants. SAFAR has further said that the stubble burning in nearby states is only accounting for six per cent of PM2.5 pollution in Delhi and the rest of the pollution is due to local sources.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has further predicted that the air quality of Delhi will remain in the ‘very poor’ section a day after Diwali. Currently, the air quality index of Delhi has almost surpassed 300 in areas, entering the red zone.
The Central Pollution Control Board stated that Delhi recorded a 24-hour average air quality index (AQI) of 303. The AQI in NCR regions such as Faridabad, Gurugram and Noida also stood at a record high, surpassing the 300-mark in each area.
It is predicted that the air quality of Delhi will be in the upper end of the ‘very poor’ category from November 4 to November 6. SAFAR said, “However, even if we consider 50 per cent of firecracker-related emissions of 2019, the AQI is predicted to degrade to the ‘severe’ category from November 4 night and will remain so till November 5.”
In an effort to salvage the air quality of the national capital, the Delhi government has imposed a ban on the usage and sale of firecrackers till the end of 2021. Neighbouring states like Haryana and Uttar Pradesh have also imposed a similar ban in districts with poor air quality.
