Delhi AQI inches towards ‘severe’ mark days ahead of Diwali; SAFAR issues health alerts
Oct 28, 2024, 10:46 IST
Delhiites have been bracing for Diwali for weeks — the time of the year when the national capital begins to choke under its own blanket of smog. However, the characteristic dip in air quality associated with the festive season is already here.
Residents woke up to a “very poor” air quality index (AQI) of 328 on Monday morning. Areas like Punjabi Bagh, Pusa, Sonia Vihar, Burari Crossing, Anand Vihar and Ashok Vihar have all reported AQI exceeding 350 as of 10:30 AM today. The vicinity around Akshardham saw a steep rise, jumping from 261 to 357 in one day, as per SAFAR. This follows Sunday’s AQI spike to 356, marking a dangerous threshold for residents’ health.
Despite a firecracker ban until January 1, air quality is expected to remain poor, driven by vehicular emissions, industrial activities and the seasonal scourge of stubble burning. Meteorologists from SAFAR note that current weather conditions hinder pollutant dispersion, leaving Delhi residents enveloped in hazardous air.
For now, residents are advised to avoid outdoor activity today and prolonged or heavy exertion. Locals are asked to seek medical attention if they experience any unusual coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing or fatigue. Doors and windows must be closed and avoid burning candles or incense. Sensitive groups, in particular, are asked to keep relief medicine handy.
Experts warn that Diwali celebrations could push AQI levels beyond 400, triggering severe restrictions under GRAP Stage 3. These would impose bans on construction, heavy-duty vehicles, and specific diesel and petrol vehicles across Delhi-NCR. As winter deepens, the city is poised for an uphill battle against worsening air quality.
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Residents woke up to a “very poor” air quality index (AQI) of 328 on Monday morning. Areas like Punjabi Bagh, Pusa, Sonia Vihar, Burari Crossing, Anand Vihar and Ashok Vihar have all reported AQI exceeding 350 as of 10:30 AM today. The vicinity around Akshardham saw a steep rise, jumping from 261 to 357 in one day, as per SAFAR. This follows Sunday’s AQI spike to 356, marking a dangerous threshold for residents’ health.
Despite a firecracker ban until January 1, air quality is expected to remain poor, driven by vehicular emissions, industrial activities and the seasonal scourge of stubble burning. Meteorologists from SAFAR note that current weather conditions hinder pollutant dispersion, leaving Delhi residents enveloped in hazardous air.
For now, residents are advised to avoid outdoor activity today and prolonged or heavy exertion. Locals are asked to seek medical attention if they experience any unusual coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing or fatigue. Doors and windows must be closed and avoid burning candles or incense. Sensitive groups, in particular, are asked to keep relief medicine handy.
Experts warn that Diwali celebrations could push AQI levels beyond 400, triggering severe restrictions under GRAP Stage 3. These would impose bans on construction, heavy-duty vehicles, and specific diesel and petrol vehicles across Delhi-NCR. As winter deepens, the city is poised for an uphill battle against worsening air quality.