Delhi woke up to a thick shroud of smog on Dhanteras morning, November 6, with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) hitting a 'very poor' 389. This marks a significant increase from the previous day's 369, raising alarms as the Diwali festival approaches.
According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), a staggering 28 monitoring stations across the national capital registered 'severe' air quality. Areas such as Burari Crossing (411), Dwarka Sector 8 (418), Jahangirpuri (460), JNU (409), IIT Delhi (473), ITO (424), Sirifort (431), R K Puram (446), and Patparganj (423) were among those experiencing the most hazardous air.
Grim Forecast for Diwali and Beyond
Air quality and weather experts have issued a grim prediction for Delhi, anticipating a deterioration to 'severe' levels from November 6 to 8, encompassing the Diwali festivities. This spike is attributed to weakening winds, which are less effective at dispersing pollutants.
The Air Quality Early Warning System indicates that the situation is likely to worsen, with the impact of Diwali firecrackers expected to coincide with the peak stubble-burning season from neighboring states and other unfavorable meteorological conditions.
Expert Insights on Worsening Conditions
Mahesh Palawat of Skymet Weather Services noted that while moderate northwesterly winds might offer some dispersal till November 7, light easterly winds setting in from Diwali night could provide temporary relief on November 8. However, this relief is projected to be short-lived.
Manoj Kumar from the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) echoed these concerns, stating that the situation could significantly deteriorate from November 9 onwards. He warned that eastern winds are expected to weaken further, leading to a dangerous accumulation of pollutants. Kumar emphasized that several pollution hotspots could see AQI levels soaring above 450.
The combined impact of increasing farm fires, emissions from firecrackers, and persistent vehicular pollution is expected to aggravate the air quality crisis, particularly in the days immediately following Diwali. Experts are urging for stricter implementation of Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) measures to mitigate the severe health risks posed by the escalating pollution levels.