Delhi Pollution: Delhi’s air quality nosedived to unprecedented levels on Monday, with the city recording its highest seasonal 24-hour Air Quality Index (AQI) of 493, pushing the national capital into a state of environmental emergency.
Delhi AQI reaches 493
Out of 36 air monitoring stations, 13 reported extreme AQI readings of 499 or 500, covering critical locations including India Gate, Mundka, Najafgarh, Dwarka, and Rohini. The situation has triggered stringent interventions from the Supreme Court and local authorities.
GRAD 4 implemented in Delhi
Under Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), strict restrictions are now in place. Truck entry is severely limited, with only essential and clean-fuel vehicles permitted. Non-essential light commercial vehicles outside Delhi face comprehensive restrictions, with exemptions only for electric, CNG, and BS-VI diesel vehicles.
Supreme Court takes charge of combat Delhi Pollution
The Supreme Court has taken unprecedented steps, directing Delhi and its NCR states to:
– Immediately consider online schooling
– Enforce pollution curbs rigorously
– Maintain restrictions even if AQI drops below 450
Authorities were questioned about delayed anti-pollution measures during a court hearing, and the court warned against scaling down preventive actions without explicit permission.
Flights and trains delayed amid pollution
The environmental crisis has cascading effects on transportation. Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport experienced significant disruptions, with over 80 flights delayed by 30-60 minutes due to dense fog. Rail services also suffered, with approximately 30 trains delayed by three to four hours, impacting major routes like New Delhi-Kochuveli Express and Jammu Rajdhani.
This environmental emergency underscores the mounting challenges of urban pollution, demanding immediate and comprehensive intervention from governmental and environmental agencies.
