The air quality in Delhi deteriorated to the "poor" category for, first time in four months, following which the Central Air Quality Management (CAQM)
imposed Stage I measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi NCR. The restrictions under GRAP-1 are implemented when the AQI goes beyond the set limit of 200. After the monsoon withdrawal and as winter approaches, air pollution is again rising in the national capital. The Air Quality Index (AQI) was reported to be 202 (poor) at 11 am on Tuesday, October 14. Since it is the first time since June that the air quality has worsened to poor, on June 11, the AQI stood at 245, according to the data issued by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). As per the Centre’s Air Quality Early Warning System (EWS) forecast for Delhi, the national capital is expected to see "very poor" AQI in the coming days around Diwali or post Diwali. “Delhi’s air quality is very likely to be in the ‘poor’ category from October 14 to October 16. The outlook for the subsequent six days shows the air quality is likely to be between the ‘poor’ to ‘very poor’ categories,” the EWS said in its last bulletin on Monday. The CPCB stressed that Delhi's air quality stood at 169 at 9 am on Monday (October 13), rising to a 24-hour average of 189 by 4 pm. This was a 22-point increase from Sunday's AQI of 167. Also Read: Delhi May Get To Celebrate This Diwali with Firecrackers But There’s A Big Catch
Why is Delhi's air quality turning to 'poor'?
Generally, the air quality of Delhi worsens in October, after the withdrawal of monsoon and days ahead of winter. At this time, coincidentally, festive firecracker usage also increases, which adds to the poor AQI.
Moreover, this season shift also coincides with stubble burning in nearby states. It is not clear whether the deteriorating air quality in the capital is due to burning firecrackers or any one specific reason.
Green Crackers this Diwali?
Over a week ahead of Diwali, the Delhi government has sought lifting of the ban, informing the court in an affidavit about various measures it has planned to check the sale and use of prohibited traditional firecrackers and to create awareness among people.
The Delhi government has outlined several measures in compliance with the Supreme Court’s directions, after the court reserved its decision on lifting the ban on bursting green firecrackers in the city. According to government officials, directives have been issued to implement several measures to curb the use of traditional firecrackers, including awareness campaigns and the deployment of enforcement teams.
