Air Quality in Delhi Plummets to 'Very Poor' Levels as Cold Wave Continues
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New Delhi, Dec 22 (NationPress) Delhi faced another day of hazardous air on Sunday, as the Air Quality Index (AQI) remained in the 'very poor' category for the second day in a row. At 6 am, the overall AQI was noted at 386, based on information from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Several areas in the city were engulfed by a thick layer of smog, which diminished visibility and necessitated the strict enforcement of GRAP Stage IV measures.
AQI measurements from various regions in Delhi underscored the gravity of the situation: Okhla Phase 2 (388), Alipur (407), Rohini (423), ITO (382), Ashok Vihar (339), Wajipur (432), Shadipur (387), Mundka (426), Jahangirpuri (437), Narela (472), DTU (352), R.K. Puram (462), Anand Vihar (423), Pusa (377), and Punjabi Bagh (417). Remarkably, several locations neared or surpassed the 'severe' threshold of 400.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a slight rise in minimum temperatures for Delhi-NCR, ranging from 7 degrees Celsius to 9 degrees Celsius, with maximum temperatures fluctuating between 21-23 degrees Celsius.
The IMD cautioned that the smog conditions might prevail in the upcoming days, with a likelihood of intensifying cold waves. Early mornings are anticipated to witness decreased visibility and chilly weather.
Although the AQI has shown a slight improvement from 'severe' to 'very poor', substantial improvement seems unlikely due to unfavorable weather conditions. Prolonged exposure to such air quality poses serious health threats, particularly for vulnerable populations.
The wind speed recorded on Saturday evening was merely four kmph, complicating the dispersion of pollutants. In the days ahead, Delhi may continue to experience poor air quality due to cold waves and unfavorable meteorological conditions.
Authorities have advised residents to limit outdoor activities and comply with anti-pollution measures.
The CPCB highlighted the health risks associated with AQIs above 400, warning of severe consequences for all residents if pollution levels remain high.
