New Delhi, December 11: Delhi’s air quality remained in the ‘poor’ category on Wednesday morning, as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). A thin layer of smog was visible across key areas, including the New Delhi Railway Station and India Gate.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in the city was recorded at 209 at 7 a.m. Areas like Anand Vihar (218), Ashok Vihar (227), Dwarka (250), and IGI Airport (218) reported ‘poor’ air quality. Some areas, such as Aya Nagar (148), Burari Crossing (187), Chandni Chowk (181), and DTU (165), recorded ‘moderate’ air quality.
AQI Categories
- Good (0-50): Minimal impact on health
- Satisfactory (51-100): Minor discomfort to sensitive groups
- Moderate (101-200): Acceptable for most, slight discomfort for vulnerable individuals
- Poor (201-300): May cause breathing discomfort to sensitive groups
- Very Poor (301-400): Health impact on vulnerable groups; discomfort for the general public
- Severe (401-500): Serious health risks, even for healthy individuals
Recent Trends
On Tuesday, the city’s AQI was recorded at 224 at 8 a.m., while Monday’s AQI stood at 231, both falling under the ‘poor’ category. Locations like Dwarka Sector 8 (291), Mundka (315), and Bawana (280) experienced high pollution levels earlier in the week.
Supreme Court and CAQM Actions
In light of improving air quality, the Supreme Court allowed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to relax GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) Stage IV restrictions in Delhi-NCR to Stage II. Following the directive, CAQM revoked Stages IV and III while retaining Stages II and I across the region.
Ongoing Concerns
Despite the relaxation of restrictions, air quality remains a pressing issue in Delhi, with consistent ‘poor’ AQI levels affecting visibility and public health. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging residents to take precautions.