New Delhi: The deterioration of Delhi’s air quality continues, remaining in the ‘very poor’ category on Saturday morning. The AQI of the national capital was recorded at 359, a slight improvement compared to the previous day. The ongoing pollution levels still pose health threats, especially to children and senior citizens. High levels of fine particulate matter, PM2.5 and PM10, have been floating in the air; several areas, such as Akshardham, Anand Vihar, and ITO, have experienced a thick blanket of smog.
The city’s AQI reached 380 in the past 24 hours. It is the indication of severe conditions. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported that areas like Bawana, Anand Vihar, and Dwarka were badly affected, with AQI readings nearing the ‘severe’ category.
At 10 am on Saturday, Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 392, Rohini and Shadipur 400 and 370, respectively, and Bawana a dangerous 409. The visibility has reduced in several parts of Delhi due to smog, particularly during early morning. Commuters have to face difficulties in their movement. This situation is likely to plunge during the coming months of winter, disrupting flight movements and daily activities.
The Delhi government has deployed 200 anti-smog guns and mist-spraying drones. The drone has been operating since Friday, spraying around 15 liters of water to decrease airborne dust in hotspots like Anand Vihar. The pollution level is expected to surge owing to falls in temperature and burning of biomass.
The Delhi government has banned biomass burning and other activities responsible for spreading pollution levels under GRAP 2. Officials urged that more actions will be taken as the winter season intensifies.
