Delhi AQI Crisis has reached alarming proportions, with pollution levels soaring past the hazardous mark of 400. As smog blankets the city, residents are grappling with severe health risks, disrupted daily activities, and deteriorating air quality. The combination of stubble burning, traffic emissions, and seasonal weather patterns has pushed Delhi to become one of the most polluted cities globally, highlighting an urgent need for action.
What Is the Air Quality Index (AQI)?
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a standardized scale that measures air pollution levels. It ranges from 0 to 500, with higher values indicating poor air quality:
- 0-50: Good
- 51-100: Moderate
- 101-200: Unhealthy for sensitive groups
- 201-300: Unhealthy
- 301-400: Very Unhealthy
- 401-500+: Hazardous
Each category reflects the health risks posed by pollutants like PM2.5, PM10, and ground-level ozone. In Delhi, AQI levels have surpassed the “hazardous” category, breaching 1,000 in certain areas, creating a public health emergency.
States With Poor and Good AQI Levels
- Dangerous Levels: Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and parts of Uttar Pradesh consistently report AQI levels above 400. Post-Diwali smog, stubble burning, and stagnant air contribute significantly to this problem.
- Moderate to Good Levels: States like Kerala, Goa, and Himachal Pradesh have AQI values below 100 due to better urban planning, forest cover, and fewer industrial activities.
- The follwoing sites can be referred for the daily updates of AQI levels
https://cpcb.nic.in/National-Air-Quality-Index/
https://www.aqi.in/in/dashboard/india
Causes of Worsening AQI
Several factors contribute to Delhi’s deteriorating air quality:
- Stubble Burning: Residue from paddy fields in Punjab and Haryana releases high amounts of PM2.5.
- Firecrackers: Post-Diwali festivities intensify smog formation.
- Traffic Emissions: Increasing vehicle numbers emit nitrogen oxides and particulate matter.
- Winter Weather: Cooler temperatures trap pollutants closer to the ground, forming a smog layer.
Health Impacts of Hazardous AQI
Prolonged exposure to high AQI levels can cause:
- Respiratory issues like asthma and bronchitis.
- Cardiovascular diseases.
- Eye irritation and skin problems.
- Cognitive impairments, especially in children and older adults.
Delhi AQI Crisis - How Is It Being Impacted?
The city has become the most polluted in the world, with visibility dropping to 100 meters in some areas. Daily activities, including flights and schools, are being disrupted. Residents report difficulty breathing, coughing, and increased hospital visits for respiratory ailments.
Government Measures
Delhi has implemented GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan):
- Closure of schools and colleges.
- Banning construction activities and heavy vehicles in the city.
- Increasing frequency of metro services to reduce private vehicle usage.
- Water sprinkling on roads to settle dust.
What Can Citizens Do?
- Wear N95 Masks: To filter fine particulate matter.
- Limit Outdoor Activities: Especially during early mornings when pollution peaks.
- Air Purifiers: Use HEPA-filter-based devices indoors.
- Stay Hydrated and Healthy: Drink plenty of water and consume antioxidant-rich foods.
Steps to Solve the AQI Crisis Long-Term
- Promote cleaner energy sources and reduce coal-based power plants.
- Encourage sustainable farming practices to eliminate stubble burning.
- Shift to electric vehicles and improve public transport infrastructure.
- Increase green cover in urban areas.
- Stricter implementation of environmental regulations and real-time air quality monitoring.
Addressing the Delhi AQI crisis requires collective efforts from citizens, industries, and the government. While short-term measures like water sprinkling and vehicle restrictions provide temporary relief, the focus must shift to long-term sustainable solutions. Transitioning to clean energy, enforcing stricter pollution control policies, and raising public awareness are crucial steps. By making conscious changes today, we can ensure cleaner air and a healthier environment for future generations. This is not just a challenge for Delhi but a wake-up call for all cities to prioritize air quality and environmental well-being.
By addressing these challenges collaboratively, we can aim for sustainable solutions and prevent air pollution crises in the future. Stay informed and proactive for your health and environment.
