Delhi's Air Quality Deteriorates Ahead of Winter Due to Multiple Factors
• Delhi-NCR is experiencing poor air quality even before the peak winter season, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 185 as of 10:00 AM on 21 October
• The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has implemented Stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to address the rising pollution levels. Key contributors to the pollution include vehicle emissions, industrial activities, construction dust, stubble burning in neighbouring states, and firecracker usage during festivals. Seasonal weather patterns, such as temperature inversions and low wind speeds, are exacerbating the situation by trapping pollutants near the ground. These conditions are leading to a significant build-up of hazardous particulate matter in the air.
Impact & Risks
The deteriorating air quality poses serious health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma. Medical professionals have reported an increase in outpatient cases related to respiratory issues, even before the peak pollution season. The combination of high pollution levels and stagnant weather conditions could lead to a rise in health complications, including respiratory distress and other pollution-related illnesses.
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