Delhi Suffers Worst Air Quality for Second Consecutive Day; CPCB Issues Health Warning

For the second straight day, Delhi recorded the worst air quality in the country, with pollution levels skyrocketing. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) issued a warning, highlighting severe health risks for both healthy individuals and those with pre-existing conditions.

Air Quality Deteriorates After Brief Relief

The alarming spike in pollution comes after a two-week respite from hazardous air quality. On December 5, the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) rolled back Stage IV restrictions of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) following significant improvement in Delhi-NCR’s air quality. However, conditions have worsened again, prompting the reimposition of the strictest measures.

AQI Reaches 'Severe' Category

Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) hit 401 (severe) on Monday night, December 16, 2024, triggering the reinstatement of Stage IV GRAP restrictions. By Tuesday afternoon, the AQI surged further to 433, with the concentration of hazardous particulate matter (PM2.5) soaring to 251.5 micrograms per cubic meter—16.7 times higher than the World Health Organization’s (WHO) safe limit of 15 micrograms per cubic meter.

PM2.5 particles, which are smaller than 2.5 microns in diameter, pose severe health risks as they can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing respiratory and cardiovascular issues.

Causes of Pollution Surge

The CPCB attributed the spike in pollution to factors such as:

• Slower wind speeds hinder pollutant dispersion.
• Persistent vehicular emissions.
• Stubble burning in neighbouring states.

The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi also forecasted continued severe pollution for Wednesday due to stagnant wind conditions.

Health Risks and Restrictions

CPCB’s warning emphasized the severe impact on public health, with vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory issues at higher risk. In response, the government has reimposed:

• A ban on construction activities.
• Restrictions on the movement of older vehicles.

Improvement Expected by December 19

The Central Agency predicts a gradual improvement in air quality from December 19, with AQI levels likely to shift to the ‘very poor’ category due to a forecasted increase in wind speeds.

Authorities have urged residents to take precautions, including limiting outdoor activities, using air purifiers indoors, and wearing masks when stepping out.