Delhi continues to grapple with concerning air quality levels, displaying a marginal improvement yet persisting in the upper spectrum of the ‘very poor’ category, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Despite the slight amelioration recorded on Sunday, pollution remains a pressing issue in the capital.
As per the 6 am Sunday data, 14 out of Delhi’s 40 air quality monitoring stations reported ‘severe’ conditions. Wazirpur, Jahangirpuri, and Punjabi Bagh emerged as the most adversely affected areas, registering high Air Quality Index (AQI) readings, with Wazirpur recording 456, followed closely by Jahangirpuri at 450 and Punjabi Bagh at 442. This marks the city’s 9th ‘severe’ air day this month.
Notably, Delhi’s air quality has been precarious, with nine ‘severe’ air days and an additional six days on the verge of ‘severe,’ tallying up to 15 days with AQI levels at 390 or higher this November. This figure marks the highest count of such days in November in the past eight years, surpassing the previous high of 13 days in November 2021.
While the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts drizzles in parts of Delhi on Monday, potentially aiding air quality, projections from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) suggest a persistent ‘very poor’ air category. The Early Warning System (EWS) for Delhi anticipates a ‘very poor’ air quality from November 26 to 28, extending into the subsequent six days.
The IMD predicts the impact of a prevailing western disturbance over northwest India, altering wind directions and influencing Delhi’s weather. The shift to easterly winds, alongside fluctuating temperatures, poses challenges in maintaining air quality standards.
Despite occasional improvements and varied weather patterns, Delhi’s struggle with ‘very poor’ air quality persists, necessitating sustained efforts to combat pollution and address the city’s environmental concerns.
Sources By Agencies