Air quality in Delhi to plunge into “very poor” category by Oct 22, authorities swing into action

New Delhi: The Air Quality Early Warning System, has forecast that the AQI level in the national capital is likely to cross 301 mark, means “very poor” category on October 22.

In view of this emerging emergency, the Commission for Air Quality Management directed the authorities to invoked all actions as envisaged under Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)- which includes banning the use of coal and firewood in hotels, restaurants and open eateries.

In response to the situation, on Wednesday the Sub-committee comprehensively reviewed the air quality scenario in the region and noted that the air quality parameters are likely to dip in the region making it to move into the “Very POOR” (ranging between 301-400) category.

In an effort to ameliorate the AQI of Delhi-NCR, the committee has asked the various agencies responsible such as, Pollution Control Boards (PCBs) of NCR and DPCC to ensure strict implementation of actions of Stage II under GRAP during this period.

This is in addition to the restrictive actions mentioned in Stage I of GRAP.

It was noted that there is a forecast for deterioration of air quality over Delhi and the air quality index (AQI) may move into the ‘very poor’ category from October 22, due to calm winds and the stable atmospheric condition predicted over the capital from Saturday, the CAQM said in an order.

The Sub-Committee also appealed to the citizens of NCR to cooperate in implementing GRAP and follow the steps mentioned in the Citizen Charter of Stage II of GRAP, like use public transport and minimize use of personal vehicles, regularly replace air filters at recommended intervals in your automobiles, avoid dust generating construction activities.

Apart from that, a 12-point action plan has also invoked in the entire NCR, which includes mechanical/vacuum-based sweeping of roads, water sprinkling , Regular inspection and strict enforcement of dust control measures at C&D sites, restrictions on burning coal / firewood including tandoors in hotels, restaurants and open eateries…etc.

GRAP is classified under four stages of adverse air quality in Delhi. Stage one in a case of ‘poor’ air quality (AQI 201-300); stage two for ‘very poor’ air quality (AQI 301-400); stage three for ‘severe’ air quality (AQI 401-450); and stage four for ‘severe plus’ (AQI >450).