Delhi Air Pollution: The air quality (AQI) in the country's capital Delhi and its surrounding areas has reached a very bad state. On Monday, Delhi's average AQI was recorded at 481, which falls in the 'severe' category. In many areas, the AQI also crossed 490, which is extremely dangerous for health. Noida's AQI was 384 and Gurugram's AQI was 468, which shows the severity of pollution. This bad air is posing a serious threat to the health of people living in Delhi-NCR.
GRAP-4 implemented for pollution controlIn view of the deterioration in air quality, the fourth phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has been implemented in Delhi-NCR. GRAP-4 is implemented in circumstances when the AQI reaches the 'severe' level (above 400). Major steps have been taken under this:
Complete ban on all construction and demolition work.Strict monitoring to prevent dust from construction sites.Reduction in the number of vehicles other than essential services.Additional buses and metro services to promote public transport.This plan has been prepared by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the Environment Department of the Delhi Government. Its aim is to reduce the level of pollution and provide immediate relief to the public.
Orange alert due to fog in Delhi-NCRThe Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert, predicting dense fog in Delhi and adjoining areas. Visibility is expected to drop to 200 meters due to fog, which may disrupt road, rail and air traffic. Apart from this, pollution levels may increase even during the day due to smog.IMD has advised people to be cautious while driving and to get information about the status of air and rail travel in advance.
AQI condition in major areas of DelhiAQI is at a very dangerous level in many areas of Delhi. Here is the AQI status of some areas:Anand Vihar: 487Ashok Vihar: 495Bawana: 495Dwarka: 499 (worst)ITO: 467Punjabi Bagh: 493
Effect of pollution and health crisisThe rising pollution in Delhi-NCR is having a direct impact on the health of the public. Especially the elderly, children and people suffering from respiratory or heart disease are being affected more by it. Doctors have advised that people avoid going out of the house, wear masks, and use air purifiers.
What should be done?- Use public transport instead of private vehicles.
- Keep a strict vigil on construction sites and adopt measures to reduce dust.
- Emphasis should be laid on increasing the number of trees and promoting greenery.
- Strict action should be taken against polluting industries.
ConclusionThis situation of air pollution in Delhi-NCR is not only a threat to the environment, but it is also being seen as a health emergency. The government and the public together will have to take concrete steps to deal with this serious situation, so that the coming generations can get a healthy and clean environment.