Delhi Desk, Delhi Magazine: Delhi’s air pollution crisis is expected to deepen over the next 72 hours as smog continues to blanket the city, pushing the Air Quality Index (AQI) beyond 300 daily. On the morning of October 29, the AQI was recorded at 274, but experts warn that the situation could deteriorate significantly in the coming days.
Causes of Air Pollution
Vehicular emissions are the primary contributors to Delhi’s poor air quality, compounded by industrial smoke and construction dust. The approaching Diwali festival may further escalate pollution levels as residents celebrate, despite a government ban on firecrackers. The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stages 1 and 2 are in force, but officials express concern that these measures may not suffice to improve the air quality.
AQI Fluctuations in Recent Days
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi saw minor relief on Monday due to south-eastern winds that reduced the AQI slightly. However, Delhi faces a potential “double whammy” around Diwali, as north-western winds are expected to bring pollutants from stubble-burning regions. On Sunday, the AQI reached 356, with Burari and Mundka recording levels of 365 and 348, respectively.
Impact of Stubble Burning
Mahesh Palawat, Vice President at Skymet Meteorology, notes that the current AQI of 274 is due to south-eastern winds blowing at 10-18 km/h. These winds, which started shifting on October 26, have lessened stubble-burning incidents, temporarily lowering pollution levels. Data from the Centre’s Decision Support System (DSS) showed that stubble burning contributed 3.34% of Delhi’s PM 2.5 levels on Sunday, down from 14.6% on Friday.
Government Actions and Anticipated Worsening Around Diwali
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has issued directives to NCR and Delhi authorities to strictly enforce GRAP measures. Officials are instructed to clean roads, spray water, and install anti-smog guns in pollution hotspots. With north-western winds set to return and firecracker pollution on Diwali night, Delhi’s AQI is predicted to decline further between October 29 and 31, raising health concerns for millions in the capital.