The air quality in Delhi, India remains in the “severe” category for the fifth consecutive day, according to the Central Pollution Control Board. The System of Air Quality Forecasting and Research (SAFAR-India) has recorded the air quality index (AQI) at 488, up from 410 a day ago.
In view of the increasing pollution, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai has called a meeting of all concerned departments today. The meeting will focus on the strict implementation of Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked Stage IV of GRAP in the entire National Capital Region (NCR) on Sunday to prevent further deterioration of air quality. Stage IV restrictions include a ban on entry of truck traffic into Delhi (except for trucks carrying essential commodities/ providing essential services and all LNG/ CNG/ electric trucks). Additionally, a ban will be imposed on the plying of Delhi-registered diesel-operated Medium Goods Vehicles (MGVs) and Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) in Delhi, except those carrying essential commodities/ providing essential services.
GRAP Stage-IV restrictions also include NCR State Govts and GNCTD may take a decision on discontinuing physical classes even for classes VI-IX, and class XI and conduct lessons in an online mode.
Doctors have warned that the AQI levels in Delhi are fatal for those suffering from lung-related diseases and even pose a risk of lung cancer.
The cases of stubble burning in the neighbouring states of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab are the major sources of air pollution in the city.
Meanwhile, a similar situation was witnessed in Bathinda, Punjab where the AQI remained in the (very poor) category with an overall Air Quality Index recorded at 215.
Locals appealed to the government to stop farmers from stubble burning as air pollution in the region continues to deteriorate.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has stated that immediate action is required for the prevention and control of air pollution in these cities so as to ensure better air quality to the residents.
