Delhi's Air Quality Set to Deteriorate to 'Poor' Category
• Delhi's air quality is expected to worsen to the 'poor' category for the first time this season, starting Monday, October 19,
• On Sunday, the city's Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 187, which is at the higher end of the 'moderate' category. However, 22 locations in the city already reported 'poor' air quality, with ITO being the most polluted area at an AQI of 430 ('severe'). The deterioration is attributed to slowing winds and the absence of rain, which had temporarily improved the AQI to 90 ('satisfactory') on Friday. The Air Quality Early Warning System predicts that the AQI will remain in the 'poor' category for at least six days.
Impact & Risks
The worsening air quality poses health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. Areas like ITO, Vivek Vihar, RK Puram, and Jahangirpuri are experiencing severe pollution levels, with AQI readings ranging from 262 to 430. The transport sector is the largest contributor to PM2.5 levels in Delhi, accounting for 23.2% of emissions. Stubble burning, which currently has a minimal impact, is expected to contribute up to 12% of PM2.5 levels by Wednesday.
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