Air quality drops to worse in Delhi

The air quality in Delhi dropped to worst in this season yesterday due to slow wind speed that affected the dispersion of dust particles from its environment.

Most places in the capital recorded the AQI in the “very poor” category, while some areas are close to being in the “severe” range. Farm fires in Punjab, Haryana and parts of Uttar Pradesh are also adding to the situation.

The System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) has predicted that it may become worse after the Diwali celebrations today.

“At least 13 districts have been identified in Punjab and Haryana based on satellite monitoring where stubble burning is maximum. They are all located along the Punjab-Haryana border. The Prime Minister’s Office reviewed the air quality situation in Delhi and NCR and has instructed the two states to use every resource available so that stubble burning could be brought down in these districts to the extent possible,” said CK Mishra, Union environment secretary.

Despite several plans put in place by the government, the air quality is not improving in the city affecting the health of thousands of people. More than 300 water sprinklers are being put to use for clearing up the air in Delhi. Over five million masks will also be distributed by Delhi authorities to government and private schools students.

Delhi government has decided to deduct salaries of Public Works Department (PWD) officials and other agencies if they fail to take necessary action against the growing pollution.

The departments are expected to move construction and demolition waste and garbage from roads and areas under their control.

BJP leader Vijay Goel blamed Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for not doing enough in this regard. He said, “Pollution has increased in Delhi. In the last five years, Arvind Kejriwal has done nothing to reduce air pollution in the national capital. It was only the Centre who has taken steps like constructing bridges, highways and widened roads for traffic management and decongestion,”