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Delhi AQI ‘Very Poor’, GRAP IV Called Off, Construction Still Banned & Schools Hybrid

December 24, 2024, 9:35 pm

The Central government’s air quality monitoring panel on Tuesday revoked Stage IV (‘Severe+’) measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) following an improvement in air quality.

However, actions under Stages I, II, and III will remain in force to prevent any further deterioration of air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) announced on December 24.
The decision comes after Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) improved to 369 (‘Very Poor’) at 4 PM on December 24, down from a peak of 401 (‘Severe’) recorded on December 16.

The improvement in air quality was attributed to favourable meteorological conditions, including improved wind speed, according to forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).

In line with the Supreme Court’s directives, Stage IV measures were initially invoked when AQI levels breached the 400 mark on December 16.

The measures were aimed at curbing severe pollution levels and included restrictions on industrial activities, construction, and entry of non-essential trucks into Delhi.

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a set of emergency measures implemented in Delhi-NCR to tackle air pollution based on the severity of the Air Quality Index (AQI).

The centre’s air quality panel stressed the importance of continued vigilance. “Actions under Stage I, II, and III of the revised GRAP shall remain invoked and be implemented, monitored, and reviewed by all the agencies concerned in the entire NCR to ensure that the AQI levels do not slip further,” the commission said in its order.

Citizens were also urged to adhere to guidelines under Stage III. “Keeping in view the winter season, when weather conditions may not always be favourable, and to ensure that AQI levels do not slip further, citizens are requested to strictly adhere to the Citizen Charter under GRAP-III,” the commission added.

The CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP assured that it would continue to monitor air quality and issue appropriate directives as necessary, stating, “The Sub-Committee shall be keeping a close watch on the air quality scenario and review the situation from time to time for further appropriate decisions depending upon the air quality in Delhi and forecasts made by IMD/IITM.”

Delhi AQI 494, IQAir Says 1,600, Which One Should You Trust?

November 19, 2024, 6:20 pm

The discrepancy between Delhi’s AQI of 494 (as reported by the Central Pollution Control Board, CPCB) and the international monitor IQAir’s reading of 1,600 arises due to differences in measurement standards, methodologies, and scales. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Different AQI Standards

CPCB (India’s AQI Standard):

India’s AQI scale is capped at 500, meaning values beyond 500 are not recorded or displayed.
The CPCB uses 40 monitoring stations across Delhi-NCR to calculate AQI, based on pollutants like PM2.5, PM10, NO₂, CO, SO₂, and Ozone.
India’s permissible limit for PM2.5 is 60 µg/m³, with “severe-plus” levels capped at AQI 500.

IQAir (International Standard):

IQAir follows the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) model, which has no upper limit like India’s 500 cap.
The “hazardous” category on IQAir begins at AQI 301, but readings can extend far beyond 500 if pollution levels are extreme.

2. Different Pollutants and Weightages

The CPCB primarily emphasizes pollutants like PM2.5 and PM10 and uses averaged data over 24 hours to calculate AQI.
IQAir’s methodology focuses heavily on real-time PM2.5 concentrations, which can spike during certain hours, making its readings higher.

3. Sensor Placement and Data Coverage

CPCB uses standardized monitoring equipment placed at key locations, adhering to national regulations.
IQAir relies on a smaller number of privately installed sensors, which may not cover all areas uniformly. Some sensors might be located in pollution hotspots, exaggerating the AQI for the city.

4. Conversion Factors

The units used to measure pollutants (e.g., µg/m³) are converted into AQI values differently by each system. India’s AQI formula differs from the US EPA model, potentially leading to starkly different results.

Which AQI Should You Trust?

For Delhi residents, it’s advisable to rely on CPCB data for practical decision-making, as it aligns with local standards and policies. However, international monitors like IQAir can provide a broader perspective, especially in understanding peak pollution episodes and how Delhi’s air compares to global benchmarks.

Also read: Delhi-NCR Enforces GRAP Stage-IV to Combat Severe Air Pollution: Dos and Don’ts

The stark difference highlights the need for unified air quality monitoring systems to address public health concerns more effectively.

Shashi Tharoor Asks: ‘Should Delhi Still Be India’s Capital?’ Here’s Why He Said It

November 19, 2024, 9:21 am

In a strongly worded statement on Monday, senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor raised a thought-provoking question about whether Delhi should remain India’s capital, as the city grapples with hazardous levels of air pollution. The Delhi-NCR region has been enveloped in a thick blanket of toxic smog, pushing the Air Quality Index (AQI) to alarming levels far exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended daily maximum.

Delhi’s Toxic Smog Levels Surge

The city’s AQI has soared to over 60 times the safe limit, causing a public health emergency. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the AQI hit a staggering 494 at 6 am, entering the “severe-plus” category. These levels are among the worst recorded this season, exacerbated by “unfavourable” weather conditions. Authorities have responded by switching schools to online classes and implementing strict pollution control measures.

HAVE A LOOK AT THE VIRAL POST:

Delhi is officially the most polluted city in the world, 4x Hazardous levels and nearly five times as bad as the second most polluted city, Dhaka. It is unconscionable that our government has been witnessing this nightmare for years and does nothing about it. I have run an Air… pic.twitter.com/sLZhfeo722

— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) November 18, 2024

Tharoor Criticizes Government’s Inaction

Tharoor, a Member of Parliament from Kerala, took to social media to express his frustration with the government’s handling of the pollution crisis. He lamented that despite his efforts, including organizing an Air Quality Round Table for experts and stakeholders since 2015, little has changed. “This city is essentially uninhabitable from November to January,” Shashi Tharoor stated, adding that the situation remained unbearable for much of the year. He questioned whether Delhi should continue to serve as the nation’s capital under such dire conditions.

WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:

#WATCH | Delhi: Kartavya Path and surrounding areas covered in a layer of smog as air quality in the city remains in ‘Severe’ category, as per Central Pollution Control Board. pic.twitter.com/80mK0nCkBq

— ANI (@ANI) November 19, 2024

Delhi Tops Global Pollution Rankings

Delhi has consistently ranked as one of the world’s most polluted cities, particularly during winter months. Cold air traps smoke, dust, and emissions, including from illegal stubble burning by farmers in neighboring states like Punjab and Haryana. This creates a toxic mixture that severely impacts air quality and public health.

Government’s Response and Stricter Pollution Measures

In response to the worsening smog, the Centre’s air quality panel invoked stricter pollution control measures under Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The measures include urging vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing health conditions, to stay indoors. The city’s AQI levels are expected to remain dangerously high, with Delhi’s air quality showing no immediate signs of improvement.

The Growing Health Crisis

The current air quality crisis in Delhi is putting immense pressure on public health systems, with respiratory and cardiovascular issues on the rise. The air pollution is taking a toll on residents, forcing the authorities to take extreme measures to safeguard the public.

As the toxic smog continues to choke the city, the question remains: how long can Delhi endure these hazardous air quality levels? Tharoor’s suggestion of reevaluating the capital’s status amid such a public health crisis is likely to spark further debate.

Delhi AQI Nears ‘Severe Plus’ Levels; Social Media Buzzes With Claims

November 18, 2024, 7:35 pm

Delhi’s air quality continues to deteriorate, with the average Air Quality Index (AQI) nearing ‘Severe plus’ levels, even as the highest anti-pollution measures under Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) took effect on Monday morning. According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI stood at 500 at 6 pm.

Confusion Over AQI on Social Media

Despite the official data, social media has been abuzz with alarming claims of AQI levels reaching 900, 1000, or even 1500. In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) issued an official notification urging the public to rely only on authorized sources like the SAMEER App or the CPCB’s official website for accurate AQI readings.

“For accurate and reliable AQI data, we kindly request you to refer only to the SAMEER App or the CPCB Official Website. These are the authorized platforms for relaying the air quality index.

Please avoid relying on unofficial or unreliable sources to ensure that correct information is alone disseminated to the public.” The notification stated.

One user on her social media account wrote “Delhi chokes on stubble smoke and urban pollutants as the AQI reaches 800-1300 level.

Slight relief expected from tomorrow!

Shame on everyone including you and me that we cannot fix this despite being the largest democracy!”

Delhi chokes on stubble smoke and urban pollutants as the AQI reaches 800-1300 level.

Slight relief expected from tomorrow!

Shame on everyone including you and me that we cannot fix this despite being the largest democracy! pic.twitter.com/DwfcLAcXN7

— IndiaMetSky Weather (@indiametsky) November 18, 2024

Another user wrote, “Interesting bit is that per international sources Indian govt. has started to fudge the AQI numbers as well. For example. the US embassy 3 hours ago through thru system reported AQI well above 1100”.

Interesting bit is that per international sources Indian govt. has started to fudge the AQI numbers as well. For example. the US embassy 3 hours ago through thru system reported AQI well above 1100. https://t.co/loG3f0HwRj

— রাজ শেখর (@DiscourseDancer) November 17, 2024

A screenshot supposedly from the US Embassy, indicating an AQI of 1374, is circulating online and gaining retweets, though the authenticity of the screenshot remains unverified.

Delhi is probably the only city with the highest AQI and the lowest IQ pic.twitter.com/LUm6wBedaV

— S☕oirse (@SaoirseAF) November 18, 2024

Delhi Residents Admitted In AIIMS in Large Numbers For Asthma, COPD; Doctors Shocked

November 7, 2024, 5:03 pm

As Delhi grapples with air pollution, several patients with respiratory problems are visiting the OPD of the Pulmonology Department in New Delhi’s All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), a doctor said on Thursday. Scores of patients were seen at the OPD of the Pulmonology Department, AIIMS, as shown in visuals.

Dr. Karan Madan, Associate Professor in the Department of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine at AIIMS says, “We are seeing that patients are having a lot of problems. Patients who have respiratory diseases like asthma, and COPD patients. We are seeing a lot more patients in the OPD now. Many patients have complained their asthma is getting worse.”

He added, “And many of our patients have come with severe exacerbation, what we call a severe worsening of symptoms. And many patients have required admission also. So I think it is a tough time for our patients who have respiratory problems…”

Dr. Madan advised patients with respiratory problems to stay indoors and avoid exposure to outdoor activity. “We have seen approximately a 15 to 20 per cent increase in the number of patients who have come with worsening respiratory problems, patients who have pre-existing asthma, we are seeing a lot more patients with asthma exacerbation…Patients who have respiratory problems must avoid exposure to outdoor activity,” he said. “If you want to exercise, better would be to exercise indoors so that your air pollution exposure is less. If you have asthma, take your inhalers regularly…,” Dr. Madan added.

Delhi’s air quality has deteriorated significantly in recent days, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching hazardous levels. On November 1, 2024, the city recorded an AQI of 428, indicating severe pollution levels.

This spike in pollution has been attributed to several factors, including the defiance of firecracker bans during Diwali celebrations, which led to a thick smog enveloping the city.

The surge in respiratory issues among Delhi residents is a direct consequence of this deteriorating air quality. Hospitals across the city have reported a significant increase in patients experiencing respiratory distress. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) anticipates that pollution levels will remain high in early November due to increased incidents of stubble burning in neighboring states.

In response to the escalating health crisis, the Delhi government has implemented several measures to combat air pollution. These include fines for owners of polluting vehicles and construction sites, as well as discussions about inducing artificial rain to alleviate the smog.

Residents are advised to take precautions to protect their health during this period of severe air pollution. Staying indoors, using air purifiers, and wearing masks when outside can help reduce exposure to harmful pollutants. Those with pre-existing respiratory conditions should follow their treatment plans diligently and consult healthcare providers if symptoms worsen.

Also read: India is pushing for $1 trillion climate finance deal at COP29

The current situation underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address air pollution in Delhi, involving coordinated efforts from government authorities, healthcare providers, and the public to mitigate health risks and improve air quality in the long term.

Delhi AQI Hits Hazardous 507, Pollution 65x Over WHO Limit

November 3, 2024, 8:47 am

Delhi’s air pollution soared to hazardous levels, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) surpassing 500 and reaching 507 as of early Sunday morning, marking pollution levels 65 times higher than the WHO’s acceptable limit. A thick smog layer blanketed the capital, posing severe health risks to residents in Delhi and surrounding areas.

The AQI jumped significantly overnight, rising from 327 on Saturday evening to 507 by Sunday morning. Many parts of Delhi, including areas like Alipur, Anand Vihar, and IGI Airport, recorded “very poor” air quality, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board’s Sameer app.

Following Diwali celebrations, pollution levels worsened, with most locations registering an AQI over 350, exacerbating health concerns. A LocalCircles survey showed that 69% of Delhi-NCR residents reported at least one family member experiencing respiratory symptoms like sore throats and cough, while 62% reported eye irritation due to the toxic air.

Delhi Govt’s Lies Exposed: Haryana CM Hits Back In Yamuna Pollution Row

October 21, 2024, 12:27 am

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has sharply criticized Delhi Chief Minister Atishi and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government for allegedly deflecting blame over the deteriorating condition of the Yamuna River. Saini accused the Delhi government of misleading the public and failing to address the real sources of pollution.

Accusations of Habitual Lying

Saini did not mince words, accusing the AAP government of being “habitual liars” and constantly shifting the blame onto others instead of taking responsibility. He emphasized that the Haryana government has consistently provided clean water to Delhi, with a biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) of 2-3 mg per litre, far below harmful levels.

“The water we supply through the CLC canal is nearly free of pollutants,” Saini pointed out. “But the Delhi government must explain who is responsible for the 28 drains of untreated water flowing from Delhi into the Yamuna.”

Misuse of Yamuna Action Plan Funds?

The Haryana CM went on to question how Delhi’s government has used the Rs 6,000 crore allocated by the Centre for the Yamuna Action Plan, including Rs 3,000 crore received over the past two years. “What did they do with that money?” Saini asked, demanding transparency and accountability from the AAP administration.

Atishi’s Counterclaims: Blame on BJP

In a counterattack, Delhi CM Atishi accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of engaging in “dirty politics” to obscure the real cause behind rising pollution levels in the city. According to Atishi, the BJP governments in Haryana and Uttar Pradesh are responsible for increasing stubble burning and releasing industrial waste into the Yamuna.

Atishi also highlighted the Delhi government’s efforts to combat pollution, such as the introduction of CNG and electric buses, in contrast to the diesel buses from neighboring states. She questioned why Haryana and UP haven’t followed suit, alleging that they prefer to “play politics with the health of Delhi residents.”

Action Promised by Delhi Govt

Despite the escalating war of words, Atishi assured the public that the Delhi government, under Arvind Kejriwal’s leadership, is actively working to address both air and water pollution. She promised that defoaming efforts in the Yamuna River would begin again soon to counter the toxic foam formation.

Dense to Very Dense Fog Forecasted in Punjab for the Next 3 Days

December 29, 2023, 6:16 pm

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a forecast indicating the likelihood of dense to very dense fog prevailing over most places in Punjab from December 29 to December 31. According to the MeT department’s announcement on ‘X’, these foggy conditions are expected to continue in most areas of Punjab from the night of the 29th to the morning of the 31st, with some pockets experiencing such conditions for the subsequent three days.

In meteorological terms, fog is classified as “very dense” when visibility drops below 50 meters, while it is considered “dense” when visibility ranges from 51 to 200 meters. “Moderate” fog occurs when visibility is between 201 and 500 meters.

The dense fog conditions have already started causing disruptions, with several flights at Delhi Airport experiencing delays due to low visibility. Additionally, Delhi-bound trains have faced delays in both arrival and departure, inconveniencing passengers. Complaints have arisen about the challenges and difficulties caused by these delays, affecting travel plans and schedules.

The forecast from the IMD indicates that North Indian states may witness dense to very dense fog conditions for the next two days, highlighting the need for caution and preparedness among commuters and travelers during this period.

Delhi’s air quality remains in very poor category

December 9, 2023, 9:17 am

The Air Quality Index (AQI) in parts of Delhi continues to hover in the ‘Very Poor’ category, prompting concerns about deteriorating air quality. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI levels persist in this range, indicating a challenging environment for residents. Visuals from areas around Akshardham early in the morning depicted the city engulfed in smog, raising alarm bells.

As per the CPCB, the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) at Anand Vihar, Delhi, was recorded at 374 on Friday morning, marking it within the ‘ very poor’ category. The ongoing spell of poor air quality has been a cause for worry, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting no rainfall in the National Capital until December 11. The prediction includes clear skies with shallow to moderate fog during the morning.

Congress MP Jairam Ramesh took the opportunity to criticize Union Minister Bhupender Yadav’s response to questions on public health and air pollution. Ramesh accused Yadav of providing a “gol mol” (vague) reply during a session in Parliament. The exchange occurred during the Question Hour on ‘air pollution in the NCR and the country’ in the Rajya Sabha. Ramesh specifically inquired about a potential review of the Pollution Control Act passed in 1981 and the National Ambient Air Quality Standards.

In response, Minister Yadav highlighted the government’s efforts and budgetary provisions to tackle air pollution. He mentioned the identification of 131 cities facing air quality issues and the allocation of funds accordingly. Yadav emphasized the recognition of municipalities contributing positively to the cause, suggesting awards be given to those exhibiting commendable efforts. However, the exchange underscores the opposition’s dissatisfaction with the government’s approach and calls for more concrete actions to combat the ongoing air quality crisis.

The air quality index categories range from ‘good’ (0–100) to ‘ severe’ (400–500 or above). The prolonged period of ‘ very poor’ air quality in Delhi accentuates the need for comprehensive measures to address pollution and safeguard public health. The issue is likely to fuel further debates in Parliament and draw attention to the urgency of effective policies and interventions.

Shehzad Poonawalla Slams AAP for Silence on Delhi’s Pollution Crisis

November 14, 2023, 11:32 am

As pollution levels surged in Delhi on Tuesday, a renewed war of words unfolded between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). BJP spokesperson Poonawalla accused Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal of turning the national capital into a “gas chamber” and criticized the AAP for overlooking internal pollution causes.

Poonawalla highlighted the impact of ongoing stubble burning in Punjab, asserting that AAP remains silent on this crucial issue. He listed internal factors such as dust, industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and biomass burning, questioning the AAP’s actions over the past nine years.

Meanwhile, BJP’s IT Cell chief Amit Malviya criticized AAP for attributing the pollution to Diwali while neglecting Punjab’s role. Malviya argued that post-Diwali, Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) remains better than levels exceeding 900 a few days earlier. He urged a shift from blaming Hindu festivals to addressing the real challenge.

In response, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai accused the BJP of hiding its role in not enforcing the firecracker ban. He questioned why firecrackers were burst when there was no festival, challenging the BJP to address its failures.

Despite the Supreme Court’s firecracker ban, Delhi witnessed defiant celebrations, prompting concerns about sustained air quality challenges.

As of 9 am, the Central Pollution Control Board recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 361 in Delhi, categorized as ‘Severe.’ Specific areas reported higher levels: RK Puram (417), Punjabi Bagh (410), ITO (430), Jahangirpuri (428), Anand Vihar (355), Ashok Vihar (355), IGI Airport T3 (426), and Rohini (417). The smog-covered capital faces continued challenges despite efforts to mitigate pollution and ongoing Supreme Court directives.

Delhi Environment Minister Urges UP Transport Minister to Crack Down on Non-Destined Vehicles

November 11, 2023, 2:52 pm

Gopal Rai, Delhi’s Environment Minister, has issued a letter to the Uttar Pradesh Transport Minister requesting action on the transportation of non-destined cars into Delhi from the UP border to reduce pollution in the city.

“In this regard, it is requested that directions be issued to the concerned to ensure that all the non-destined vehicles should be diverted through Eastern and Western Peripheral Motorway night at their entry points before the Delhi Border. Accordingly, additional enforcement teams may be deployed at all entry points in peripheral ways to ensure the implementation of the aforesaid directions.” Read the letter addressed to UP Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh.

Following Friday’s rain, Delhi’s air quality improved somewhat on Saturday. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has upgraded the air quality from ‘Very Poor’ to ‘Poor’.
Anand Vihar had an AQI of 295 at 7 a.m. on Saturday, RK Puram had a reading of 230, Punjabi Bagh had a reading of 244, and ITO had a reading of 263. Meanwhile, Gopal Rai declared that the state government will postpone the intended implementation of the city’s odd-even car-rationing programme. The level of pollution has decreased. The AQI has dropped from 450 to roughly 300. The implementation of odd-even from November 13 to 20 has been postponed.

The statement comes after the Supreme Court asked the Delhi government earlier in the day to make a final judgement on the implementation of the Odd-Even Scheme. The court, however, declined to make a ruling, instead leaving the subject to the state administration.
The national capital is now implementing Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) after the city’s air quality dropped to the ‘severe plus’ level.