The Delhi Pollution levels have once again reached alarming heights, and the air quality has entered the dreaded ‘severe plus’ category. In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to curb the crisis and protect residents from further harm.
As the Air Quality Index (AQI) peaked at a hazardous 457 on Sunday, the national capital’s air is choking with toxic particles, raising serious health concerns and sparking immediate action.
With pollution levels breaching the safety limits, Delhi’s smoggy haze is an all-too-familiar sight, signaling the start of another challenging winter for residents. Unfortunately, despite several preventive efforts, the city’s air quality is rapidly deteriorating due to factors like stubble burning, industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and changing weather patterns.
Delhi Pollution
Delhi’s air pollution levels are escalating dangerously. As winter sets in, pollutants from multiple sources become trapped in the atmosphere due to lower temperatures and low wind speed, leading to a toxic blanket of smog.
The capital’s Air Quality Index (AQI), which breached the ‘severe’ threshold earlier, has now leapt into the ‘severe plus’ category, raising severe health alerts. Residents in areas like Bawana (490), Ashok Vihar (487), and Wazirpur (483) are among the worst affected.
This situation poses an acute health hazard, with people experiencing respiratory issues, eye irritation, and reduced visibility. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, are at high risk. Despite various pollution control measures, Delhi Pollution remains an unrelenting crisis due to its complex and multifaceted causes.
Also Read: Delhi Air Quality ‘Very Poor’ on Diwali as Thick Smog Blankets the City
GRAP Stage IV Measures Imposed
To address the current pollution emergency, the CAQM has invoked Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This phase is designed to bring in strict restrictions when pollution reaches critical levels. Let’s look at some of the key restrictions and their expected impact:
Ban on Non-Essential Trucks: All trucks, except those carrying essential goods or providing critical services, are barred from entering Delhi. This measure aims to reduce traffic emissions significantly, as heavy vehicles contribute to particulate matter and nitrogen oxide levels.
Restrictions on Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs): LCVs registered outside Delhi, except those running on EV, CNG, or BS-VI diesel, are also prohibited from entering the capital unless carrying essential goods. This restriction is vital to curbing emissions from outdated vehicles that run on older, less efficient fuels.
Suspension of Construction Activities: As part of Stage IV, most construction activities are suspended, as they contribute heavily to dust and fine particulate matter in the air. Only essential projects and repairs are allowed, ensuring that the air is spared from additional pollution sources.
Also Read: Top 10 Most Polluted Cities Across India
Reasons Behind Delhi’s Alarming Pollution Levels
Despite yearly efforts to curb air pollution, Delhi Pollution continues to worsen. Understanding the underlying causes is key to addressing the crisis effectively. The following are main contributors:
- Vehicle Emissions: With a rapidly growing population and vehicle density, vehicular emissions remain a primary contributor to pollution in Delhi. Diesel vehicles, in particular, emit high levels of pollutants like nitrogen oxides and particulate matter.
- Industrial Pollution: Industrial areas around Delhi release a significant amount of toxic fumes into the atmosphere. These emissions combine with urban pollutants, adding to the city’s severe AQI levels.
- Stubble Burning: The practice of stubble burning in neighboring states like Punjab and Haryana sends massive plumes of smoke into Delhi’s atmosphere, further aggravating the pollution problem. Despite awareness campaigns, this seasonal activity continues to impact Delhi’s air quality.
- Weather Conditions: During winter, Delhi experiences temperature inversion and low wind speeds, trapping pollutants close to the ground and causing smog. This weather phenomenon worsens Delhi Pollution by preventing pollutants from dispersing.
Also Read: Apps for AQI Data Tracking
FAQs
Q.1. What is the current AQI level in Delhi?
Ans. As of the latest data, Delhi’s AQI has reached the ‘severe plus’ category, with an average reading of 457.
Q.2. What is Stage IV of the GRAP?
Ans. Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is the highest level of pollution control measures, involving strict restrictions on trucks, construction, and commercial vehicle entry.
Q.3. How does Delhi Pollution affect health?
Ans. Delhi’s pollution can cause respiratory issues, eye irritation, and other health complications, especially for vulnerable groups.
Q.4. What are the main causes of Delhi Pollution?
Ans. Major causes include vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, stubble burning, and adverse weather conditions.
Q.5. How can I protect myself from Delhi Pollution?
Ans. Avoid outdoor activities, use air purifiers, wear masks, and limit exercise outdoors to reduce exposure to pollutants.
