Is Delhi's Air Quality Improving with AQI at 300?
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Synopsis
Delhi’s air quality has shown a slight improvement, with the AQI at 300. However, many areas still face very poor conditions. The government is intensifying efforts to combat pollution amid a cold wave alert, raising concerns for residents.
Key Takeaways
- Delhi's AQI is currently at 300, reflecting slight improvement.
- 19 out of 39 monitoring stations report very poor air quality.
- Government initiatives include real-time emission monitoring for industrial units.
- A yellow alert for cold wave has been issued, with temperatures dropping.
- Expert committee formed to oversee pollution control measures.
New Delhi, Dec 4 (NationPress) There has been a slight improvement in the air quality of Delhi as of Thursday morning, despite the ongoing drop in temperatures. At 7 a.m., the city's Air Quality Index (AQI) was measured at 300, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Although the overall AQI remained in the 'poor' category, several monitoring stations still indicated levels in the 'very poor' range.
Out of 39 monitoring stations in Delhi, 19 reported air quality classified as 'very poor', 14 were in the 'poor' category, and two stations showed 'moderate' conditions.
Stations that recorded very poor air quality include Chandni Chowk (331), RK Puram (344), Rohini (343), Vivek Vihar (319), Bawana (343), Siri Fort (327), Wazirpur (323), Anand Vihar (318), Ashok Vihar (307), and Sonia Vihar (301).
Locations with poor air quality included IGI Airport (257), Alipur (284), Aya Nagar (275), Mathura Road (296), IIT Delhi (287), among others.
Only two monitoring stations, Dilshad Garden (196) and Mandir Marg (179), noted air quality in the 'moderate' range.
The situation was more severe in the neighboring NCR city of Noida, where nearly all stations reported AQI levels falling in the 'very poor' category.
On Wednesday, numerous areas in Delhi experienced 'severe' pollution levels. CPCB data from 40 monitoring stations indicated that at least 14 showed an AQI exceeding 401 at 7:05 a.m., categorizing them as 'severe'.
In light of the persistent pollution crisis, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert for a cold wave in Delhi for Friday, with minimum temperatures anticipated to fall to between 4 and 6 degrees Celsius.
To address the escalating situation, both the Centre and the Delhi government intensified their efforts on Wednesday, unveiling new monitoring protocols and mandating over 2,000 industrial units to implement real-time emission tracking systems by year-end.
At the central level, the Union Environment Ministry instructed 2,254 industrial units identified as having high pollution potential, or 'red category', to install calibrated Online Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems (OCEMS) and Air Pollution Control Devices (APCD) by year-end. Officials warned that non-compliant units may face closure.
At the state level, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced the establishment of a high-powered expert committee to systematically monitor, evaluate, and suggest measures to tackle pollution in the national capital.
During a review meeting of essential departments, CM Gupta stated that the committee would consist of senior government officials, IIT experts, and environmental science specialists and would be empowered to expedite pollution control measures.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize that while a slight improvement in air quality in Delhi is a positive sign, the persistent challenge of pollution remains a pressing concern. The government's proactive measures reflect a commitment to address this issue, but long-term solutions must be prioritized to ensure a healthier environment for all.
NationPress
04/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current AQI of Delhi?
As of Thursday morning, Delhi's AQI was recorded at 300, indicating a slight improvement but still in the 'poor' category.
How many monitoring stations reported very poor air quality?
Out of 39 monitoring stations, 19 reported air quality in the 'very poor' category.
What measures is the government taking to combat air pollution?
The government has intensified efforts by mandating industrial units to install real-time emission tracking systems and has formed an expert committee to monitor pollution control measures.
What is the expected temperature drop in Delhi?
The India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert, predicting minimum temperatures to drop between 4 and 6 degrees Celsius.
Is there a cold wave alert in Delhi?
Yes, a yellow alert for a cold wave has been issued for Friday, indicating significant drops in temperature.
