Air quality across Delhi-NCR deteriorated sharply on Sunday, slipping from “poor” to “severe’’ category just before Diwali and could further worsen owing to firecrackers, vehicular emissions, smog and dust. According to the latest update by AQI.in, the Delhi AQI at 8:00 am reached 295, whereas the Air Quality Early Warning Systems (EWS) placed it at 274. Both readings come in the “severe range”.
On Saturday, several areas recorded an AQI of 255, while others like Ashok Vihar, Wazirpur and Anand Vihar recorded the most toxic levels between 326 and 412, and were declared as “hazardous”. According to AQI.in, breathing Delhi’s air is as harmful as smoking about six cigarettes a day, based on PM2.5 exposure over the past 24 hours.
NCR’s worsening AQI
Ghaziabad’s AQI was registered at 299, whereas Noida and Greater Noida recorded at 298 and 268, respectively, all in the “severe’’ category or “very poor’’ range. As per the data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), nine of Delhi’s 38 stations are in the “very poor’’ zone, some close to the “severe’’.
The transport emissions contributed around 15 per cent of Delhi’s pollution load, as per the Decision Support System. The national capital’s PM2.5 concentration reached 174 µg/m³, over 11 times the WHO safe limit of 174 µg/m³, as per a report by The Indian Express. The WHO has cautioned that prolonged exposure can lead to stroke, chronic respiratory disease and lung cancer.
IMD Delhi weather forecast
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast smog/shallow fog at many places during morning hours, turning into mainly clear sky along with mist/haze from afternoon onwards. For October 19 and October 20, the maximum temperature is likely to vary between 32-34 degrees Celsius and the minimum 18-20 degrees Celsius, accompanied by light winds.
Health experts advised residents to wear masks and avoid outdoor exercise. With the festival week approaching, experts have cautioned that fireworks, vehicle emissions and stubble smoke could surge pollution levels further.