Delhi Air Quality Drops To ‘Very Poor’; IMD Forecasts Thunderstorm On December 27

Delhi Air Quality Very Poor: The air quality in Delhi has deteriorated significantly, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded in the “very poor” category at 340 as of 9 a.m. on Thursday, December 26, 2024. According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), 32 out of 38 air quality monitoring stations in the national capital reported AQI levels in the “very poor” category.

As residents grapple with hazardous pollution levels, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a thunderstorm accompanied by rain on December 27 and 28, offering some hope for temporary respite. A “yellow alert” has also been issued for December 29, warning of very dense fog in the region.

Current Air Quality Situation In Delhi

The alarming AQI reading reflects the severity of pollution in the city, posing significant health risks for its residents.

1. AQI Levels And Impact:
   • The AQI of 340 falls in the “very poor” category, which can lead to respiratory issues and other health complications, especially for sensitive groups.
2. Monitoring Station Data:
   • Out of 38 CPCB monitoring stations, 32 reported “very poor” air quality, emphasizing the widespread nature of pollution in Delhi.
3. Primary Pollutants:
   • High concentrations of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) remain the main contributors to the city’s deteriorating air quality.

IMD’s Weather Forecast

The IMD’s predictions offer some hope for improvement in air quality, albeit temporarily, with rainfall expected to help wash away pollutants.

1. Thunderstorm And Rain:
   • A thunderstorm, accompanied by light to moderate rain, is expected on December 27 and 28.
2. Yellow Alert For Dense Fog:
   • On December 29, a “yellow alert” has been issued for very dense fog, which could disrupt visibility and transportation but may slightly improve air quality by reducing dust.
3. Temperature And Wind Patterns:
   • Cooler temperatures and calm wind conditions are likely to persist, which might limit the dispersion of pollutants in the short term.

Health Advisory For Residents

With air quality remaining in the “very poor” category, residents are advised to take necessary precautions to minimize exposure to pollution.

• Avoid Outdoor Activities:
  • Limit physical exertion, particularly in the morning and evening when pollution levels are highest.
• Use Masks And Air Purifiers:
  • Wear N95 masks outdoors and use air purifiers indoors to reduce exposure to harmful particulate matter.
• Monitor Health:
  • Individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiac conditions should closely monitor their health and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

Underlying Causes Of Pollution

Delhi’s persistent air pollution can be attributed to a combination of local and regional factors:

1. Vehicular Emissions:
   • High vehicular density in the city contributes significantly to PM2.5 and PM10 levels.
2. Industrial Activity:
   • Industries operating in and around Delhi release pollutants into the air, exacerbating the situation.
3. Winter Inversion:
   • Cooler temperatures and calm winds during winter trap pollutants close to the ground, worsening air quality.
4. Construction Dust:
   • Construction activities and unregulated dust contribute to particulate pollution, adding to the city’s air quality woes.

Steps Being Taken To Address The Issue

Authorities have implemented several measures to mitigate pollution levels and protect public health:

1. Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP):
   • Restrictions on construction activities, vehicular movement, and industrial emissions are being enforced under GRAP guidelines.
2. Awareness Campaigns:
   • Public awareness initiatives encourage residents to adopt eco-friendly practices, such as carpooling and using public transport.
3. Pollution Monitoring:
   • Continuous monitoring of air quality allows for timely intervention and enforcement of pollution control measures.
4. Rainfall-Induced Relief:
   • The anticipated rainfall is expected to reduce pollutant concentrations temporarily, providing short-term relief to the city.

Long-Term Solutions Needed

While immediate measures are crucial, long-term strategies are essential to tackle Delhi’s persistent air pollution problem:

1. Transition To Cleaner Fuels:
   • Promoting the use of electric vehicles and renewable energy sources can reduce dependency on fossil fuels.
2. Enhanced Public Transport:
   • Expanding and improving public transportation networks can reduce vehicular emissions.
3. Afforestation Drives:
   • Increasing green cover in and around Delhi can help absorb pollutants and improve air quality.
4. Regional Collaboration:
   • Coordinating efforts with neighboring states to control stubble burning and industrial emissions is vital for sustained improvement.

A Glimpse Of Hope Amidst Challenges

The IMD’s forecast of rain and thunderstorms provides a glimmer of hope for temporary respite from Delhi’s hazardous air quality. However, the city’s pollution crisis requires consistent and coordinated efforts from authorities, industries, and residents to ensure long-term solutions.

As Delhi continues to battle worsening air quality, the need for immediate action and sustainable practices becomes more urgent than ever. For now, the forecasted weather changes may offer some relief, but the underlying challenges remain a pressing concern for India’s capital.