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Delhi Air Quality Clears Post-Diwali, But Loni Chokes
10 Nov
Summary
- Delhi's air quality improved to 'poor' category with AQI at 299.
- Neighboring Loni experienced 'severe' air quality with AQI reaching 470.
- Strong northwesterly winds are credited for dispersing pollutants in Delhi.
Delhi's air quality has improved to the 'poor' category, with the 24-hour average AQI settling at 299, two days after Diwali. This marks an improvement from the previous day's 344. Experts attribute this positive shift to strong northwesterly winds, averaging 12-14 kmph, which are effectively dispersing pollutants. The Air Quality Early Warning System also forecasts a decline in PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations.
Despite Delhi's relief, the neighboring area of Loni in Uttar Pradesh continues to struggle with severe pollution. Real-time AQI in Loni reached 470 earlier on Tuesday. While its 24-hour average AQI was lower at 245, the town has been identified as a pollution hotspot. Residents point to industrial emissions, vehicles, construction dust, and open burning as key contributors.
Stage III restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) are currently in effect across Delhi-NCR, including a halt on non-essential construction and demolition in Loni. Ghaziabad authorities are implementing coordinated pollution control plans, involving measures like mechanized road sweeping and water sprinkling. Residents, however, emphasize the need for sustained pollution control efforts beyond emergency situations.
While transport is currently Delhi's largest pollution contributor, stubble burning's share is expected to rise. On Monday, 559 farm-fire incidents were detected across six states, with Madhya Pradesh and Punjab reporting the highest numbers. This has been a significant issue since mid-September.
