Air Quality Declines in Delhi Pre-Diwali; CPCB Flags 12 Areas with ‘Very Poor’ Pollution Levels
Delhi’s Air Quality Worsens Ahead of Diwali; 12 of 38 Stations Report ‘Very Poor’ AQI: The minimum temperature in Delhi on Sunday was recorded at 20.6°C, which is 2.2 degrees above the seasonal average, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Relative humidity stood at 71% at 8:30 am, with the IMD forecasting clear skies and a maximum temperature around 33°C for the day.
Despite pleasant weather conditions, Delhi’s air quality continues to decline. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) at 9 am was 284, falling under the ‘poor’ category. Out of 38 monitoring stations, 12 recorded ‘very poor’ AQI levels, raising concerns ahead of Diwali. Officials anticipate that air quality may dip into the ‘severe’ category (AQI 401-500) by Tuesday, a day after Diwali, largely due to firecracker emissions and stagnant atmospheric conditions.
To mitigate pollution, water sprinklers have been deployed at key locations like India Gate, where the AQI was recorded at 269 this morning. However, environmental experts suggest such measures may have limited impact if emissions from firecrackers and other pollutants surge. With AQI already in the poor range and worsening forecasted, authorities urge residents to limit outdoor activity and avoid bursting firecrackers to prevent further air quality deterioration.
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