Amidst the preparations for Diwali in the capital Delhi, the deteriorating air quality has raised a new concern. Even before the fireworks start during the festival, pollution levels have reached very high levels in many areas. According to the information recorded on the Sameer App of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), out of 54 monitoring centers in Delhi, the air quality was in the poor category at 31 centres, while the situation was recorded as very poor at three centres.
With AQI crossing 400 in some parts of the capital, it is clear that the challenge of pollution remains serious. Despite the administration imposing restrictions on vehicles and construction activities, the expected improvement in air quality is not visible. In such a situation, smoke from firecrackers during Diwali can make the situation more difficult.
AQI condition in 10 major areas of Delhi
According to the available data, Shahdara recorded the highest AQI of 459, while Sonia Vihar had the air quality index of 457. 399 AQI was recorded in New Delhi, 398 in Safdarjung Enclave and 391 in Punjabi Bagh. Apart from this, the level was 378 in Saket, 349 in ITO and 326 in Rohini. Whereas AQI was recorded at 253 in Laxmi Nagar and 179 in Anand Vihar. These data show that the air quality remains poor in many areas of the capital. Especially the situation in Shahdara and Sonia Vihar is more worrying.
Worst situation in Shahdara and Sonia Vihar
Different levels of pollution have been recorded in different areas of Delhi. In the available data, Shahdara and Sonia Vihar have emerged as the most affected areas. AQI was recorded above 450 at both these places. The air quality situation in New Delhi, Safdarjung Enclave and Punjabi Bagh also remains worrisome.
According to these data, AQI 349 has been recorded in ITO. The air quality in Rohini also remains at a poor level. While the readings of Anand Vihar and Laxmi Nagar are comparatively lower, it does not mean that the risk of pollution in these areas has completely ended.
Restrictions are in place, yet there is no control on pollution
To reduce pollution in Delhi, steps have been taken to control vehicular movement and construction activities. A ban has been imposed on entry of foreign vehicles below BS-VI standard into Delhi from November 1. Apart from this, instructions have also been given to stop unnecessary construction works at many places. The aim of these measures is to reduce smoke emitted from vehicles on roads and dust from construction sites.
However, despite these restrictions, there is no visible decline in pollution levels. Diwali fireworks are yet to be lit, so the anxiety about what is to come has increased. If the use of firecrackers is not effectively controlled, the air quality may deteriorate further. There is also a possibility of AQI reaching close to 800 in the news, although this cannot be considered a definite figure.
Strict checking of vehicles on Delhi borders
Transport Department teams are active at the entry routes of Delhi to control pollution. Vehicles coming from outside are being checked at Ghazipur, Aya Nagar, Afsara and Seemapuri borders. Especially the vehicles entering Delhi from Gurugram are being monitored.
During the investigation, the number plates of the vehicles and their emission standards are being scrutinized. If any vehicle is found to be below BS-VI standards then it is being sent back instead of being allowed to enter Delhi. Through this action, an effort is being made to stop the movement of polluting vehicles.
Concern about health increased before Diwali
Bad air can affect people's health. Especially children, elderly and people with respiratory problems need to take extra precautions. During increased pollution, it is better to avoid staying outside for long periods of time and leave the house with caution only when necessary.
The biggest challenge at present in Delhi is to control the increasing level of pollution. Along with government restrictions, vigilance of citizens is also necessary. The extent to which fireworks are controlled during Diwali may have an impact on the air quality of the capital in the coming days.