Delhi’s air quality has once again plunged into the “severe” category, enveloping the city in a thick layer of smog. With plunging temperatures and high pollution levels, residents are battling dual challenges of cold and unbreathable air. On Friday, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 429, a level considered hazardous.
While a slight improvement is expected on Saturday, experts predict that the air quality will remain “very poor.” Let’s explore the current air quality scenario, its causes, and its impact on the region.
Delhi Suffers as Smog Intensifies Air Pollution
The toxic air has turned Delhi into a virtual gas chamber. A dense blanket of smog has covered the city, reducing visibility and worsening respiratory conditions. Friday morning brought light fog and smog, with a faint sunlight struggling to pierce through the pollution-laden skies.
Worsening AQI Across Delhi-NCR
Several parts of Delhi, including Wazirpur, Jahangirpuri, and Anand Vihar, reported AQI levels in the “severe” category. Only four areas, such as DTU, Lodhi Road, and IGI Airport, recorded “very poor” air quality.
In NCR cities, the AQI levels on Friday were as follows:
- Delhi: 429
- Gurugram: 335
- Noida: 330
- Ghaziabad: 315
- Greater Noida: 265
- Faridabad: 253
What’s Causing the Severe Air Pollution?
Experts cite unfavorable meteorological conditions as a major contributor to Delhi’s air pollution crisis. Weak winds and low ventilation indices have caused pollutants to accumulate in the atmosphere.
Factors Contributing to Pollution
- Wind Patterns: Northwest winds blew at a speed of 8 km/h in the morning, slowing down to 4 km/h in the evening, allowing pollutants to settle.
- Burning Waste: Crop stubble and garbage burning contributed 1.23% of the pollution, while vehicular emissions accounted for 12.12%.
- Low Ventilation Index: The ventilation index stood at 1,500 cubic meters per second on Friday, far below the ideal threshold of 5,600 cubic meters per second.
- Mixing Depth: The mixing depth, which defines the vertical spread of pollutants, was limited to just 900 meters.
What Lies Ahead for Delhi’s Air Quality?
Saturday Forecast: Marginal Relief Expected
The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) predicts marginal relief on Saturday. Air quality may improve slightly to the “very poor” category, with winds expected to blow from the northwest at speeds of 4–6 km/h.
Smog to Persist Through the Night
Despite slight improvements during the day, smog is likely to dominate the night. Weather conditions will remain unfavorable for pollutant dispersion, keeping the air quality in critical condition.
Residents Grapple with Health Issues Amid the Smog
People have been advised to minimize outdoor activities and use N95 masks to reduce exposure to harmful pollutants.
Steps to Mitigate the Crisis
While immediate relief might seem distant, long-term solutions are imperative to combat Delhi’s air pollution. Authorities need to:
- Enforce stricter measures to curb vehicular emissions.
- Promote the adoption of cleaner energy sources.
- Strengthen regulations on crop stubble burning and waste management.
