Delhi’s Air Quality Remains ‘Very Poor’ Amid Weather Changes
Delhi’s air quality continues to be a pressing issue, with pollution levels remaining in the ‘very poor’ category, according to officials. The Air Quality Index (AQI) registered concerning numbers on Wednesday, raising alarms about worsening atmospheric conditions.
Impact of Weather on Air Quality
Meteorological factors such as reduced wind speed and temperature changes have further exacerbated pollution levels, preventing pollutants from dispersing effectively. Experts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) highlighted that stagnant conditions are likely to persist, posing a challenge to improving air quality.
“Low wind speeds coupled with increased moisture have created conditions favorable for pollutant accumulation,” an IMD official explained.
Ongoing Challenges and Mitigation Efforts
Despite efforts under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which includes restrictions on construction activities and vehicular emissions, the situation remains grim. Authorities have advised residents, particularly those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, to limit outdoor activities and use air purifiers indoors.
Air quality experts emphasize that stricter enforcement of anti-pollution measures and coordinated efforts among stakeholders are critical to mitigating the ongoing crisis.
As the city battles rising pollution levels, residents and policymakers face a daunting task of balancing developmental needs with urgent environmental concerns.
