Delhi AQI at 364, GRAP III Curbs Ahead of Diwali
Delhi’s air quality remained in the ‘very poor’ category on Saturday, November 7, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 364 ahead of Diwali. Several parts of the national capital reported severe pollution levels, prompting authorities to enforce additional restrictions across Delhi-NCR.
Delhi AQI Reaches 364 as Pollution Remains High
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s AQI stood at 364 at 9 am on Saturday, compared with the 24-hour average of 382 recorded on Friday.
Under CPCB standards, an AQI between 301 and 400 is classified as very poor, while readings between 401 and 500 fall within the severe category.
Of the 59 monitoring stations reporting air quality data, 18 recorded severe pollution levels on Saturday morning. Fine particulate matter, or PM2.5, remained the dominant pollutant across much of the city.
GRAP Stage III Restrictions Enforced Across Delhi-NCR
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) activated Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on Friday to prevent further deterioration in air quality.
The restrictions include tighter controls on construction and demolition activities, limitations on certain categories of vehicles and enhanced measures to reduce dust and industrial emissions.
Delhi’s Directorate of Education has also directed government and private schools to conduct classes up to Class 5 in hybrid mode, allowing students to attend lessons online.
Delhi Air Pollution May Worsen During Diwali
The Air Quality Early Warning System has forecast that Delhi’s pollution levels could enter the severe category over the weekend.
Unfavourable weather conditions, reduced dispersion of pollutants and emissions associated with Diwali celebrations could further affect air quality.
The India Meteorological Department recorded a minimum temperature of 16.2 degrees Celsius at Safdarjung on Saturday morning.
Authorities continue to monitor pollution levels as Delhi approaches Diwali on November 8, with residents facing heightened health risks from prolonged exposure to polluted air.
