Delhi maintains pollution curbs as air stays ‘severe’

Delhi's concerning air pollution levels persisted Friday, with several locations still experiencing ‘severe’ air quality conditions, leading to several health-related problems.

Delhi’s AQI still in the severe category

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) lingered above 400 in various parts of the national capital. An AQI between 401-500 is classified as severe.

At Anand Vihar in east Delhi, the AQI stood at a dangerous 411 as of Friday morning. Other areas had even higher readings, with Alipur recording 432, Wazirpur 443 and RK Puram 422. Numerous other locations were in the 301-400 range categorized as "very poor."

The Air Quality Index (AQI) across Delhi continues to be in 'Severe' category in some areas as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

AQI in Anand Vihar at 411, in Alipur at 432, in Wazirpur at 443, in RK Puram at 422 pic.twitter.com/YeMS4YrCFs

— ANI (@ANI) November 24, 2023

While Delhi has seen some improvement since pollution spiked to over 600 last week, the air continues to pose serious health hazards. Doctors have warned of rising respiratory issues and even heightened heart attack and stroke risk from conditions.

#WATCH | Air Quality Index (AQI) across Delhi continues to be in 'Severe' category in some areas as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

(Visuals from India Gate, shot at 6:55 am) pic.twitter.com/8gba3lTrt6

— ANI (@ANI) November 24, 2023

Gopal Rai announces air pollution control measures

On Thursday, Delhi's Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced the air pollution control measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage 3 that would remain in effect as the city's air quality lingered in the 'very poor' category.

The decision comes after Delhi's AQI registered at 324 on Thursday based on Central Pollution Control Board data - within the hazardous 301-400 AQI range. GRAP involves escalating curbs on emissions and activities based on pollution thresholds.

“Scientists believe wind speeds continuing to stay low is preventing further improvement. So the government has decided GRAP Stage 3 will remain imposed until air quality progresses,” Rai said.

Rules prohibiting construction except for projects of national importance remain in place. Certain linear infrastructure projects have been granted exemptions to continue.

He further urged caution from citizens, emphasizing that GRAP stages 1 through 3 curbs on traffic, waste burning, diesel gensets, dust pollution and other sources are still activated.

“We need the public to be careful and follow all anti-pollution guidelines. Large-scale cooperation is vital or air quality could worsen,” Rai said regarding the health crisis plaguing the capital.

Warning of respiratory illness

Doctors have already warned of spikes in respiratory illnesses with some hospitals reporting up to a 30% patient increase amidst the smoggy conditions over recent weeks.

Authorities continue coordination efforts with neighbouring states also experiencing similar severe air quality in the broader northern Indian plains region. Consistent action on all pollution fronts is required, experts reiterated.