Delhi Air Pollution: The air quality in Delhi and its adjoining areas continues to plummet, persisting in the ‘critical’ category as reported by the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR)-India. The alarming trend has seen pollution levels spike in the ‘551’ range, maintaining the hazardous conditions for several consecutive days.
In response to this environmental emergency, the state government has rolled out stringent measures, with a ‘work from home’ policy mandated for 50% of government employees until further notice. This step falls under the final stage of the pollution control plan as authorities grapple with the persistently hazardous air quality levels.
The Central Pollution Control Board’s data reveals a drastic increase in Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI), surging by more than 200 points since October 27. November 3 marked the worst recorded air quality since the notable high of 471, witnessed on November 12, 2021. While there has been a slight improvement attributed to relatively better wind speed, a thick toxic haze continues to envelop the national capital for the sixth consecutive day.
In light of the escalating crisis, Delhi’s Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, addressed a pressing letter to Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav. Rai emphasized the urgency for stringent regulations, advocating for the allowance of only CNG, electric, and BS VI-compliant vehicles in Delhi-NCR. This urgent plea stems from the imminent arrival of Diwali and the foreseen exacerbation of air quality, prompting a call for immediate action to avert further deterioration.
The critical state of air quality in Delhi-NCR has triggered an urgent need for stringent environmental interventions, with the escalating pollution levels warranting immediate and aggressive measures. As the hazardous conditions persist, there is a collective call for stringent regulations and proactive steps to combat the ongoing air quality crisis, underlining the necessity for swift and decisive action to safeguard public health and the environment.
