Toxic Air in Delhi: Breathing Becomes Dangerous as AQI Reaches 978
The air quality in Delhi has reached dangerous levels, causing severe health risks for its residents. On the most polluted days, the air quality index (AQI) has soared to 978, which is equivalent to smoking 49 cigarettes a day. Since October, pollution levels have gradually increased, and the situation worsened after Diwali due to uncontrolled firecracker use and the burning of crop stubble. The thick haze that envelops the city is making it increasingly difficult to breathe, with doctors expressing grave concerns.
Delhi’s Air Pollution Crisis: Health Impacts and Government Response
As of Monday, Delhi’s AQI reached an alarming 978, with some parts of the city experiencing hazardous air quality. This level of pollution has raised serious health concerns, with experts warning of the long-term impacts on respiratory health. The government has been criticized for delaying the implementation of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-4), which was meant to address severe air pollution. The Supreme Court recently questioned the Delhi government’s delay in enforcing pollution control measures, even when the AQI surpassed 450.
Restrictions and Measures: Schools Shut and Online Classes Begin
To mitigate the risks of pollution, the Delhi government has imposed several restrictions, including the closure of schools. Online classes are being held for students, but the decision to exclude class 10th and 12th students from this order has raised questions. The move has been criticized, and the Aam Aadmi Party government is facing scrutiny for not extending the school closure mandate to all students.
Pollution Levels in Nearby States: Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab
Delhi is not the only state suffering from severe air pollution. Haryana, with an AQI of 631, is facing similar issues, which is equivalent to smoking 33.25 cigarettes daily. Uttar Pradesh ranks third, with an AQI of 273, equal to 10.16 cigarettes per day. In Punjab, the situation is exacerbated due to the burning of crop stubble, with AQI levels reaching 233, or 8.34 cigarettes per day.
The Least Polluted States: Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh
While Delhi and its surrounding regions face hazardous air quality, some states remain largely unaffected. According to data from India in Pixels, Ladakh has virtually no air pollution, with the AQI registering close to zero. Similarly, Arunachal Pradesh’s AQI stands at a low 13, equivalent to smoking just 0.18 cigarettes per day.
Call for Action: What Needs to Be Done?
To combat the rising pollution levels, it is crucial for the government to implement stricter measures, such as controlling crop burning and reducing firecracker use. Public awareness and timely enforcement of pollution control plans are essential to improve air quality and safeguard public health.