Throughout January, Delhi faced persistent air pollution, worsening an ongoing crisis. Unfavorable weather conditions, including fog, calm winds, and low temperatures, contributed to the deterioration of air quality. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the average monthly Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeded 350, compared to an AQI of 311 in January 2023.
The AQI is a measure of harmful particulate matter PM2.5 concentration, known to cause cardiovascular and respiratory issues. The AQI categorization ranges from 'good' (0-50) to 'emergency' (501 and above).
On the last day of January, several monitoring stations in Delhi recorded 'severe' air quality levels. For instance, at Anand Vihar, PM2.5 was at 407, PM10 at 349 ('very poor'), and NO2 at 108 ('moderate'). Dwarka sector 8 recorded PM2.5 at 403 ('severe') and PM10 at 269 ('poor'). Jahangirpuri registered 'severe' levels with PM10 at 413 and PM2.5 at 402. Punjabi Bagh recorded PM2.5 at 404 ('severe') and PM10 at 357 ('very poor'). Okhla Phase-II had PM2.5 at 496 ('severe') and PM10 at 486 ('severe'), with NO2 at 119 ('satisfactory'). Mandir Marg recorded PM2.5 at 404 ('severe') and PM10 at 330 ('very poor'). At IGI airport, PM2.5 was at 332 ('very poor') and PM10 at 228 ('poor').
Despite these severe levels, weather experts predict an improvement in air quality in the coming days with the influence of two Western Disturbances.
GRAP Stage III measures were implemented three times this winter season, initially from November 2 to 28, then from December 22 to January 1, and reintroduced on January 14 due to a deteriorating AQI. However, it was lifted on January 22 considering the disruptive impact on stakeholders and observing improvements in the average AQI.
(With Agency Inputs)
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