New Delhi is grappling with increasingly hazardous air quality, as the average Air Quality Index (AQI) reached alarming levels on Sunday, making it the second-worst air day of the season. The city's AQI inched closer to the 'severe' category, peaking at 391 in the morning before settling at 370 at 4 pm, placing it in the upper range of 'very poor'. The worst AQI of the season was recorded on October 30, with an index of 373.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) categorizes an AQI between 301 and 400 as 'very poor', and between 401 and 500 as 'severe'. Several areas within Delhi recorded AQI values exceeding 400, indicating 'severe' conditions. Punjabi Bagh was among the worst affected, with an AQI of 425, followed by Bawana (410), Jahangirpuri (401), Nehru Nagar (400) and Wazirpur (400). Other locations with 'severe' air quality included Patparganj (425), RK Puram (422), Alipur (415), Sonia Vihar (415), Anand Vihar (412) and Chandni Chowk (409).
A blanket of smog enveloped the national capital as temperatures dipped to 11.7 degrees Celsius, marking a significant departure from the normal range. While wind speeds picked up in the late afternoon, offering some relief, the overall air quality remained a major concern.
The share of pollutants stemming from farm fires in Punjab and Haryana remained relatively low, contributing approximately 5% to Delhi's PM2.5 levels. This is a decrease from 8% on Saturday. According to the Centre's Decision Support System (DSS), the contribution of farm fires was 5.3% on Sunday. In previous years, the contribution of stubble burning has exceeded 40%. The transport sector was the highest contributor to Delhi's pollution at 20%. Satellite data indicated 238 incidents of stubble burning in Punjab, 42 in Haryana and 158 in Uttar Pradesh on Saturday.
The Air Quality Early Warning System has forecast that Delhi's air quality is likely to remain in the 'very poor' category from November 10 to 12, and is expected to persist for the subsequent six days.
In response to the deteriorating air quality, authorities have implemented measures outlined under Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has doubled parking fees across the city as part of GRAP Stage II measures. Residents are also encouraged to report pollution-related violations through the Green Delhi App and the 311 App. Complaints are forwarded to relevant departments for prompt action.
While the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) has stated that there is no need to impose stricter pollution control measures under GRAP-III at this time, the situation remains under close observation. The prevailing conditions underscore the urgent need for sustained and comprehensive measures to mitigate air pollution in the national capital.
