Delhi's Air Quality Crisis: What You Need to Know
Delhi's air quality has reached alarming levels, with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reporting severe AQI readings. On November 11, the Delhi government activated Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to address this crisis. Residents are now breathing air equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.
In response to the deteriorating air quality, schools for children up to Class 5 have been closed, and many institutions are shifting to hybrid modes of education. Key areas like Wazirpur, Bawana, and Chandni Chowk are among the most polluted, with AQI levels soaring above 450. This crisis has sparked widespread concern among residents and officials alike.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta addressed the media, emphasizing that the air quality readings were accurate despite some temporary issues with the monitoring app. She pointed out that the pollution problem is not solely Delhi's fault, attributing part of the blame to surrounding regions whose emissions significantly contribute to the city's poor air quality.
The Graded Response Action Plan is a series of emergency measures activated when air quality reaches critical levels. Stage 1 is triggered when AQI is categorized as 'poor' (201-300), while subsequent stages respond to increasingly severe conditions. The current situation has prompted urgent actions aimed at curbing further deterioration.
Gupta reiterated the importance of collaborative efforts to combat pollution, stating that the government is working closely with various departments to address the issue. The encroachment of pollutants from neighboring states, including vehicle emissions and industrial smoke, has proven to be a significant factor affecting Delhi's air quality.
As Delhi grapples with this environmental crisis, it is crucial for residents to stay informed about air quality levels and follow government advisories. The health implications of prolonged exposure to such hazardous air are severe, making it imperative for all stakeholders to take immediate action to improve the situation.
