Air Quality Index (AQI) Limit Sparks Controversy in India
• The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, has recently addressed concerns regarding the maximum limit of the Air Quality Index (AQI) set at 500 under the National Air Quality Index (NAQI). The AQI is a numerical scale that measures air quality and its potential health impacts based on pollutant concentrations, including PM2.5 and PM
• The controversy stems from questions about the rationale behind the 500-point cap, as well as the effectiveness of measures like the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which was introduced in 2017 to tackle severe air pollution in Delhi-NCR. Temperature inversion, a phenomenon that traps pollutants near the Earth's surface, has also been highlighted as a contributing factor to worsening air quality.
Impact & Risks
The controversy over the AQI limit and pollution control measures has significant implications for public health, particularly in urban areas like Delhi-NCR, where air pollution levels frequently reach hazardous levels. High concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 can lead to respiratory and cardiovascular issues, especially among vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions. The lack of clarity on the AQI cap and the effectiveness of GRAP could hinder efforts to mitigate air pollution and protect public health.
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