Delhi is facing a severe air quality crisis as pollution levels soar, causing significant health risks for its residents. On a recent Friday, the average Air Quality Index (AQI) in the capital reached 293, placing it in the 'poor' category. In some areas, the situation has escalated to 'severe' levels, with many residents reporting difficulty in breathing and other health issues.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has highlighted the alarming state of air quality in Delhi. As of 9 a.m. on that Friday, the average AQI stood at 293.
The National Capital Region (NCR) also experienced high pollution levels, with cities like Faridabad at 194, Gurugram at 196, Ghaziabad at 247, Greater Noida at 296, and Noida at 242. Several districts in Delhi are grappling with AQI readings between 300 and 400, indicating hazardous conditions.
Certain areas have been particularly affected. For instance, Wazirpur recorded an AQI of 379, while Vivek Vihar stood at 327. Other regions, such as Shadipur (337), Rohini (362), Punjabi Bagh (312), Patparganj (344), Narela (312), Mundka (375), Jahangirpuri (354), Dwarka Sector 8 (324), Bawana (339), Anand Vihar (342), and Alipur (307), also reported troubling figures.
Residents are voicing their frustrations about the ongoing pollution crisis. Rahul, a local citizen, expressed his concerns over the rising pollution levels, noting that this problem seems to worsen each year.
Despite government promises to tackle the issue, he feels that little effective action has been taken. The poor air quality has resulted in breathing difficulties, eye irritation, and a sore throat for many, prompting Rahul and others to wear masks outdoors.
The Delhi government is taking steps to combat the escalating pollution. In response to the deteriorating air quality, they have implemented the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-1).
Chief Minister Atishi and Environment Minister Gopal Rai recently met with officials to discuss strategies for managing pollution levels in the city. Following this meeting, the government announced that 99 teams would be deployed to inspect construction sites to mitigate dust pollution.
Additionally, 200 anti-smog guns from the Public Works Department (PWD), 30 from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), 14 from the NCR Transport Corporation (NCRTC), and 80 from the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) will be put to use in various locations to help reduce smog.
Moreover, the government is urging citizens to refrain from burning firecrackers and has encouraged people to report any pollution-related activities through the Green Delhi app. This initiative aims to foster community involvement in maintaining air quality and to ensure that offenders are held accountable.
The deteriorating air quality in Delhi serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for collective action to address environmental concerns. As pollution levels rise, it is crucial for both the government and citizens to work together in finding sustainable solutions to safeguard public health and improve air quality in the city. The situation emphasises the importance of not just reactive measures but also proactive strategies to prevent such crises in the future.
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