Delhi Air Quality: Delhis Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, has declared the next two weeks as crucial for the citys air quality. As part of the phase two implementation of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to combat very poor air quality, this period is significant due to the upcoming festivals of Dussehra and Deepavali, as well as concerns regarding the impact of farm fires.Special Teams to Tackle PollutionMinister Rai chaired a meeting at the Delhi Secretariat and announced the deployment of special teams to identify and inspect local sources of air pollution. The decision comes in response to deteriorating air quality in Delhi-NCR.Regional Cooperation for Stubble BurningRai highlighted the Delhi governments efforts to address stubble burning in neighbouring states, a significant contributor to high pollution levels. He revealed that discussions with the environment ministers of these states had resulted in assurances of action. As Diwali, stubble burning, and Dussehra converge, Rai stressed the need for heightened vigilance during the next 10 to 15 days.Expanding Pollution HotspotsAddressing the media after the meeting, Gopal Rai reported the identification of eight additional pollution hotspots in the city, in addition to the existing 13. Local sources of pollution in areas such as Shadipur, Mandir Marg, Patparganj, Sonia Vihar, and Moti Bagh will be inspected by special teams.Challenges in Air QualityDespite efforts, the overall air quality in Delhi was classified as Very Poor, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 306, surpassing the previous measurement of 302. Rai expressed concern about the decrease in wind speed and the arrival of colder weather, which may exacerbate pollution levels.Phase II of GRAP ImplementationThe second phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has been initiated in Delhi, focusing on cleaning and water sprinkling measures. To address air quality concerns, the frequency of buses and trains will be increased.Action Plan for Air Quality ManagementThe Commission for Air Quality Managements sub-committee has adopted an 11-point action plan, following the revised GRAPs Stage-II guidelines across the entire National Capital Region. This plan includes a ban on coal and wood-fired stoves, an increase in CNG and electric buses, regular road cleaning, and traffic management to minimise congestion.Effective Air Quality CommunicationThe AQI provides a clear and easily comprehensible tool for communicating air quality to the public. It encompasses six categories, ranging from Good + Satisfactory to Severe, with each classification determined by ambient pollutant concentrations and their corresponding health impacts.The collective efforts to mitigate pollution will be critical in ensuring better air quality for Delhi in the coming weeks.(With ANI Inputs)
