The hazardous pollution in Delhi is persistently rising. The average Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi reached 395 today, which falls under the ‘very poor’ category. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB,) particulate matter (PM) 2.5 recorded was 265 and PM 10 was 461, on Monday.
The authorities are concerned about the increasing pollution in the city. A few measures were taken to combat the increasing pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR.)
A meeting was conducted on Monday to discuss the dangerous situation and the steps to be taken to curb the pollution in Delhi. The meeting was attended by Imran Hussain, the Environment Minister of Delhi, along with a few other officials from different ministries.
Imran Hussain implemented the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP,) ordered by the Supreme Court, to control the pollution.
According to sources, meteorological conditions such as low wind speed increased the pollution.
Mr. Hussain took certain measures to control the pollution. He ordered the Municipal Corporations to maintain cleanliness on the roads and sweep the roads to get rid of the dust which creates air pollution. In addition, Hussain told the Municipal Corporations to ensure no construction material such as cement, sand, etc., are left uncovered to avoid air pollution caused due to dust particles.
The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) assured the implementation of the measures guided by Mr. Hussain. They said the agencies are taking the necessary action to control the pollution and facilitate the proper disposal of the waste generated by industries. The other important measures taken are the Odd and Even scheme for private vehicles, use of eco friendly fuels by public transport, etc.
According to the CPCB, an AQI value in the range of 400-500 falls under the ’severe’ category, whereas a value in the 301-400 range belongs to the ‘very poor’ zone.
The areas which recorded an AQI value belonging to the ‘severe’ category are Ashok Vihar, Bawana, Burari Crossing, ITO Metro Station, Jahangirpuri, Mundaka, Narela, Nehru Nagar, R.K. Puram, Rohini, Vivek Vihar, Wazirpur etc.
Other places which fall under the ‘very poor’ category are Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range, Dwarka- Sector 8, Indira Gandhi International Airport, Dilshad Garden, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Lodhi Road etc.
The Central Government is taking all the possible measures to improve the current situation of Delhi and keep the pollution under control. People are advised to avoid outdoor activities during morning and evening hours and to use air purifying masks for safety.
