Delhi Chokes as AQI Hits 605; 'Severe' Pollution Grips Capital
Delhi's AQI surged to 605, triggering GRAP-II restrictions. Read about the severe pollution levels across the city and the government's response.
New Delhi woke up to a hazardous blanket of smog on Wednesday, as the Delhi air quality index skyrocketed to a staggering 605 by 7:41 AM. The city is currently grappling with a severe pollution crisis, with multiple hotspots recording levels that pose significant risks to public health.
Hotspots of Pollution: Which Areas are Worst Hit?
Data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) paints a grim picture of the atmospheric conditions across the national capital. Several regions have officially entered the 'severe' category, making breathing a struggle for millions of residents.
Among the most affected areas, Punjabi Bagh recorded a high AQI of 452, followed closely by RK Puram at 423 and ITO at 418. Other critical zones including Dhaula Kuan (417), India Gate (414), and Ghazipur (410) are also witnessing severe pollution levels.
While some areas are slightly better off, they still remain in the 'very poor' or 'poor' brackets:
- Chandni Chowk: 369 (Very Poor)
- IGI Airport (T3): 358 (Very Poor)
- Vasundhara Enclave: 328 (Very Poor)
- Lodhi Road: 304 (Very Poor)
- Anand Vihar: 300 (Poor)
GRAP-II Triggered: Vehicle Restrictions in Place
In response to the deteriorating air quality, the government has implemented the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-II). This has led to immediate restrictions on vehicle entry to curb further emissions. To ensure compliance, Delhi Police have launched intensive checking drives, particularly at the Delhi-Gurugram border, to stop unauthorized vehicles from entering the city.
Government Response: The Stubble Burning Debate
Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav addressed the crisis on Tuesday, stating that the Centre’s air quality panel is keeping a constant watch on meteorological factors. According to the Minister, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) is analyzing wind speed, wind direction, and overall air movement to determine the next course of action.
The Paradox of Stubble Burning
Interestingly, the government claims that the current spike in pollution is not solely due to crop residue burning. Minister Yadav highlighted a "decline" in stubble-burning incidents in neighboring states like Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh compared to previous years.
"Around 40 per cent of the paddy stubble has been utilised through ex-situ management this time," affirmed Bhupender Yadav.
When questioned about why the air quality remains 'severe' despite these improvements in stubble management, the Minister reiterated that the CAQM is closely monitoring weather conditions and taking necessary steps based on their ongoing assessments.
Contrast in Mumbai: A Different Story
While Delhi struggles with hazardous air, the situation in Mumbai is relatively less dire. According to CPCB data, Mumbai recorded an overall AQI of 175, which falls under the 'unhealthy' category. However, several pockets of the city are breathing much easier:
- Borivali East: 74 (Satisfactory)
- Kandivali West: 86 (Satisfactory)
- Malad West: 87 (Satisfactory)
- Worli: 96 (Satisfactory)
- Chakala-Andheri East: 97 (Satisfactory)
- Shivaji Nagar: 109 (Moderate)