Delhi air pollution

An AQI between zero and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", then 401 and between 500 is considered "severe". The level of PM10 (226) and PM2.5 (122) pollutants in the air were recorded in the moderate and very poor categories, respectively with the latter being the major source of pollutant in the city.

Airborne pollen varies in character from place to place due to diverse meteorological or environmental conditions. There is growing evidence that airborne pollen plays a crucial role in increasing allergic diseases in the urban environment. As pollen, climatic variables, and air pollutants coexist in nature, they have the potential to interact with one another and exacerbate their adverse effects on human health.

"Low visibility procedures are in progress at Delhi Airport. All flight operations are presently normal," the Delhi airport said in a passenger advisory. Low Visibility Procedures are the actions to ensure the safe operation of aircraft during periods of reduced visibility or low cloud base. The airport authorities further requested all passengers to contact the airline concerned for updated flight information.

The AQI is expected to remain under the 'very poor' category over the weekend and the national capital is likely to observe improved air quality, as per the predictions of the air quality and weather bulletin. The Air Quality Index (AQI) had hit the 400 or 'severe' mark on Friday. The AQI improved from 'severe' to 'very poor' category on Saturday morning as it stood at 398.

Two days ago, while suggesting states to open schools in phased manner, the CAQM had stated that keeping in view the current air quality in Delhi-NCR, there is a need to exercise control on various sectors that significantly contribute to air pollution and hence had continued its ban on the construction and demolition activities, in place since November 27.

"Taking into consideration different studies that clearly show that C&D sites are a major contributor of air pollution across the NCR, the Commission if of the view that except for some exemptions, C&D activities should not be allowed in the NCR till further orders," a release from the Environment, Forests and Climate Change Ministry said.

The predominant surface wind is likely to be coming from the Northwest direction of Delhi with a wind speed 4 kmph, mainly clear sky, and shallow fog in the morning on December 8, according to the  Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi.

Senior advocate Ranjit Kumar, representing the Uttar Pradesh government, submitted before a bench headed by Chief Justice N.V. Ramana and also comprising Justices D.Y. Chandrachud and Surya Kant, that if industries were to shut down in UP it would impact sugarcane and milk industries in the state.