Delhi experienced a worsened air quality on Wednesday, with an average AQI of 230, marking the highest reading since mid-July. As part of winter measures, non-compliant vehicles and construction activities have been restricted.
On Wednesday, the air quality in Delhi deteriorated to the 'poor' level, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board as recorded by the Sameer application. At 8:15 am, the national capital's average AQI was 230, making it the highest reading since mid-July.
Forty-one of the 56 active monitoring stations reported 'poor' or worse air quality levels, with Pusa recording the worst AQI at 318. In Uttar Pradesh, Ghaziabad recorded a 'poor' AQI of 222, Greater Noida 248, and Noida 203. In Haryana, Gurugram registered an average AQI of 204, while Faridabad recorded an air quality level in the 'moderate' category at 124.
Air quality typically worsens during the winter months in Delhi, which is often listed as the world's most polluted capital. Contributing factors include stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana, vehicular pollution, firecrackers lit during Diwali, falling temperatures, decreased wind speeds, emissions from industries, and coal-fired plants.
In response to the worsening air quality, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced measures beginning November 1 to curb pollution. The Winter Action Plan will remain in force till February 28. As part of these measures, non-Delhi vehicles below the Bharat Stage-6 emission norms will not be allowed to enter the national capital till January 31.
Additionally, vehicles registered in Delhi that do not have a valid pollution control certificate will be denied refuelling. Restrictions will also be imposed on constructions and demolitions, and will be monitored. The government has also mandated that 50% employees in government and private offices will be required to work from home.
Written by Nachiket Deuskar. Edited by Anamika Pathak.
Source:
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