Delhi's air quality worsened on Monday, with certain areas of the capital shrouded in smog as the Air Quality Index (AQI) fell into the 'Very Poor' range. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), Delhi’s AQI was recorded at 328, slightly better than Sunday’s average of 356.
AQI Levels Drop Marginally but Remain Concerning
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported that the AQI at Anand Vihar was 357 at 7 a.m., marking a decrease from the 'severe' level of 405 recorded the day prior. In the vicinity of the Akshardham temple, the AQI worsened, reaching 357, a decline from Sunday’s 261 recorded at the same time.
SAFAR's Prediction: Air Quality Likely to Stay Poor
Despite a ban on firecrackers extending to January 1, SAFAR predicts Delhi's air quality will stay in the 'Very Poor' category due to additional emissions from firecrackers and stubble burning. "Meteorological conditions are unfavourable for effective dispersion of pollutants," SAFAR noted, indicating limited relief in the near future.
Students Call for Innovation to Tackle Pollution
Delhi students, like Vansh Aggarwal, are urging the government to employ innovative approaches to curb pollution. "Pollution isn't just a result of Diwali; there are numerous contributing factors, such as vehicle and industrial emissions," Aggarwal commented. He called for a focus on "new techniques and innovation" instead of politicizing the issue.
Comparative Analysis of Air Quality in Greater Noida and Delhi
Aggarwal, who frequently travels between Greater Noida and Delhi, shared his view on the capital’s deteriorating air quality, stating that he feels it’s notably worse in Delhi.
The pollution has impacted the health of residents, including Sukhram, who is considering leaving Delhi to return to his village in Meerut. "I've been unwell for the past week due to pollution and have had trouble sleeping and breathing," he said, explaining his decision to temporarily leave the capital.
Toxic Foam in Yamuna Continues to Spark Political Debate
The pollution in Delhi’s Yamuna River remains high, particularly in the Kalindi Kunj area, where toxic foam has been observed. This issue has sparked a political tussle between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). BJP Delhi President Virendra Sachdeva was hospitalized after taking a dip in the Yamuna in protest, alleging misappropriated funds meant for the river’s cleanup.
AAP and BJP Trade Blame over Pollution
Delhi Environment Minister and AAP leader Gopal Rai criticized the BJP, accusing it of contributing to Delhi’s pollution. "The BJP is the party that creates pollution and believes theatrics can solve it," Rai remarked, emphasizing the need for cooperative efforts across party lines to address the crisis.
With inputs from agencies
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