Delhi AQI Stays at 364 as Several Areas Record Severe Pollution
Delhi’s air quality remained in the ‘very poor’ category on Saturday morning, with the city’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) touching 364 at 8 am. According to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, several monitoring stations across the capital recorded pollution levels in the ‘severe’ category.
The latest reading showed a slight improvement from Friday’s AQI of 389. However, pollution levels remained above 400 in several neighbourhoods. IIT Delhi recorded an AQI of 443, followed by Punjabi Bagh at 433 and Narela at 409.
Other areas also reported elevated pollution levels. Dhaula Kuan recorded an AQI of 318, while the Cantonment Area registered 315. Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 272, placing it in the ‘poor’ category.
GRAP Stage III Restrictions Implemented
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR on Friday, November 6.
The restrictions include a ban on several non-essential construction and demolition activities. Authorities have also imposed restrictions on certain categories of vehicles to reduce vehicular emissions.
Under the guidelines, BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers face restrictions in Delhi and designated NCR districts. Primary schools have also been permitted to conduct classes in hybrid mode.
Diwali Raises Pollution Concerns
The latest pollution readings come a day before Diwali, which falls on November 8. The Air Quality Early Warning System has forecast severe air quality in Delhi between November 7 and 9.
Weather conditions have also contributed to the accumulation of pollutants. Low wind speeds and unfavourable atmospheric conditions can limit the dispersal of pollutants.
The CPCB classifies AQI readings between 301 and 400 as ‘very poor’. Readings between 401 and 500 fall under the ‘severe’ category.
The restrictions will remain in force as authorities monitor pollution levels across the national capital and neighbouring NCR districts.
