Delhi's air quality worsens; Akshardham records AQI of 426
What's the story
Delhi's air quality has continued to deteriorate, with some areas recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) above 400, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The Akshardham area recorded a severe AQI of 426 on Sunday morning, one of the highest this season. Anand Vihar followed closely with an AQI of 418. Barapulla also reported a poor AQI of 290 on Sunday morning, falling in the poor category.
Pollution sources
Spike in pollution levels
On Saturday, Delhi's average AQI was recorded at 268, falling in the poor category. More alarmingly, nine out of 38 monitoring stations recorded very poor air quality. The spike in pollution is largely attributed to increased vehicular emissions, which accounted for 15.6% of total emissions on Saturday, according to the Decision Support System.
Weather impact
Stagnant weather conditions worsen air quality
Weather conditions, including unfavorable wind, in Delhi have also worsened the air quality. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted clear skies for Sunday with temperatures between 19°C and 33°C. These stagnant weather conditions are not helping disperse pollutants, leading to a further decline in air quality as Diwali approaches.
Measures
Authorities to intensify pollution control measures
In light of the worsening air quality, authorities are expected to intensify pollution control measures. The Air Quality Early Warning System has predicted similar conditions in the coming days, with no immediate improvement expected as Delhi approaches Diwali. This period is usually marked by further deterioration in air quality due to firecracker use and stubble burning in neighboring states.