The air quality in Delhi remained in the “very poor” category with a reading index of 323 on Tuesday, November 21 at 6:30 am, according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR). However, monitoring agencies reported a marginal improvement in air quality in the city and its suburbs on Sunday, November 19. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded a temperature of 13.2 degrees Celsius in Delhi today. This slight improvement in air quality and temperature has brought relief to the residents. However, experts suggest that there is unlikely to be a significant relief from high pollution levels in the coming days, indicating the persistent challenges the city faces in combating air pollution.
Despite the easing of restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) – 4 due to the improvement in air quality, Delhi’s Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, urged people to continue following the rules. Stages 1, 2, and 3 of the GRAP are still in effect to combat air pollution, as suggested by the minister. He emphasized the need for people to be aware and take necessary measures to sustain this improvement.
According to SAFAR data, the Air Quality Index (AQI) at different locations in Delhi varied. The AQI at IIT Delhi was 321, at the Airport (Terminal 3) was 336, and at Pusa was 337. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded an AQI of 374 in Anand Vihar at 7:41 am, 399 in Jahangirpuri, 315 in Lodhi Road, and 370 in New Moti Bagh.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What does GRAP – 4 refer to?
GRAP – 4 is one of the stages in the Graded Response Action Plan implemented by the Delhi government to combat air pollution. It specifies certain restrictions and measures to be followed for pollution control.
What are the different categories of air quality?
An Air Quality Index (AQI) of 0 to 100 indicates good air quality, 100 to 200 indicates moderate quality, 200 to 300 indicates poor quality, 300 to 400 indicates very poor quality, and 400 to 500 is considered severe.
Why was the construction work ban lifted?
The ban on construction work was lifted as a result of the improvement in air quality in Delhi, allowing normal construction activities to resume.
Sources:
latestly.com