Home / Environment / Delhi Air Quality Hits 'Very Poor' Amid Rising Pollution
Delhi Air Quality Hits 'Very Poor' Amid Rising Pollution
9 Dec
Summary
- Delhi's air quality remains in the 'very poor' category with AQI above 300.
- Pollution levels are forecast to worsen, potentially reaching 'severe' levels.
- Vehicle emissions are a significant contributor to local pollution in Delhi.
Delhi's air quality has remained stubbornly in the 'very poor' category, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) persisting above the 300 mark on Monday. The 24-hour average AQI was recorded at 314, a slight increase from the previous day, and morning readings showed 27 stations in the 'very poor' bracket. Experts forecast a further worsening of pollution levels in the immediate future, potentially escalating to 'severe' levels.
Analysis of pollution sources indicates that transport within the city contributes significantly to the local air quality issues, accounting for 17.7% of the problem. Other contributors include peripheral industries, waste burning, construction activities, and residential sources. Neighboring districts in the National Capital Region (NCR) also play a role, with Jhajjar and Sonipat being notable contributors.
Meteorological conditions on Monday saw the maximum temperature settle at 26.3 degrees Celsius, below normal, and the minimum at 8.7 degrees Celsius. The forecast for Tuesday predicts a partly cloudy sky with winds ranging from 15 to 25 kmph, and temperatures expected to be around 9 degrees Celsius for the minimum and 24 degrees Celsius for the maximum.
