Delhis Air Quality Deteriorates, But Signs of Improvement Emerge

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Arpit Soni

Delhis Air Quality Deteriorates, But Signs of Improvement Emerge

New Delhi, March 18: Delhi’s air quality has once again raised concerns as the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported that the average Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeded the 200 mark, reaching 232 by 4 PM, categorizing it as ‘poor’.

In response to this situation, the sub-committee of the Air Quality Management Commission (CAQM) convened an important meeting at 4 PM to review the current air quality status in Delhi-NCR.

The meeting discussed not only the present AQI levels but also analyzed weather forecasts provided by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) for the upcoming days.

During the meeting, the sub-committee noted that the AQI, which had reached 232 at 4 PM, dropped to 218 by 6 PM, indicating a gradual improvement in air quality. Additionally, forecasts from IMD and IITM suggested that the activation of a ‘Western Disturbance’ and favorable weather conditions could lead to increased wind speeds and light rainfall in the coming days. These factors are expected to aid in the dispersion and cleansing of pollutants, potentially leading to further improvements in air quality.

The sub-committee also assessed that based on current trends and dynamic models, Delhi’s overall AQI could remain in the ‘moderate’ category in the coming days. Keeping this in mind, the committee deemed it unnecessary to implement Phase I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) at this time. However, the Air Quality Management Commission clarified that the situation will be closely monitored, and prompt decisions will be made if necessary. The commission assured that regular reviews of Delhi-NCR’s air quality will be conducted to take timely actions to protect citizens from the adverse effects of pollution.

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