Delhi’s Air Quality Remains ‘Poor’ with AQI at 224; Some Areas Show Improvement
Despite some areas seeing improved air quality, Delhi’s overall AQI stays in the 'poor' category, prompting continued concerns about public health
New Delhi: Delhi’s air quality showed no significant improvement today, with the average Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 224 as of 8 am, continuing to fall within the ‘poor’ category. According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), several parts of the city, including ITO, Chandni Chowk, and Major Dhyanchand National Stadium, recorded AQI values in the 220-248 range, indicating high pollution levels.
Though Delhi’s air quality remained poor, there were signs of improvement in some areas, where the AQI was recorded as ‘moderate.’ Areas such as Lodhi Road (AQI 231), Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium (197), and North Campus, Delhi University (181), showed somewhat better air quality, but still fell short of healthy air standards.
Supreme Court’s Ruling on Air Quality Restrictions
The Supreme Court recently allowed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to downgrade Delhi’s air pollution restrictions from Grap Stage IV to Stage II, following signs of improved air quality last week. However, the court clarified that stricter measures, including Stage III and IV restrictions, would be re-imposed if the AQI crosses certain thresholds—350 for Stage III and 400 for Stage IV.
Key Restrictions Under Grap Stages III and IV:
Ban on trucks carrying non-essential goods unless using CNG, LNG, or BS-VI diesel.
Prohibition on BS-IV or lower diesel-powered medium and heavy goods vehicles.
Suspension of all construction and demolition activities.
Restrictions on non-essential light commercial vehicle movement.
The court has also advised integrating some Stage III measures into the current Stage II restrictions as a precautionary approach.
Understanding AQI and Health Risks
The Air Quality Index (AQI) serves as a critical tool to monitor air pollution and its health impact. AQI values and their associated health risks are as follows:
0–50 (Good): Clean air, minimal health risks.
51–100 (Satisfactory): Air quality acceptable, negligible impact on health.
101–200 (Moderate): Mild discomfort for sensitive groups.
201–300 (Poor): Health risks for vulnerable populations (children, elderly).
301–400 (Very Poor): Serious health concerns, particularly for people with respiratory issues.
401–450 (Severe): Respiratory distress and significant health risks.
450+ (Severe Plus): Hazardous air quality, serious health consequences for everyone.
Impact on Public Health
The persistent ‘poor’ air quality in Delhi continues to raise alarms about its impact on public health, especially for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. Despite some localized improvements, the overall air pollution levels remain a significant concern for the capital city.