Air Quality in India’s Capital Slips into Severe Category
Air quality in India’s capital, New Delhi, has slipped into the severe category, with dense smog gripping northern states, according to the government-run Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi.
Severe Air Quality Conditions
The Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi on Thursday morning came in at 424, which is considered severe. AQI readings between 201 and 300 are considered poor, followed by very poor from 301 to 400, and severe between 401 and 500. According to experts, AQI in the severe category affects healthy people.
Persistent Problem
Air pollution has become a persistent problem in New Delhi, and it gets worse during the winter, when farmers in nearby areas burn crop stubble and add to the emissions of coal-fired plants and industrial units around the city.
Fog and Flight Disruptions
In another northern Indian state, weather officials said that dense fog engulfed several cities, even affecting rail and flight operations. The Indian Meteorological Department said on Thursday morning that dense fog was reported in several cities. Low visibility procedures are in progress at Delhi airport, officials said.
Weather Predictions
According to weather predictions, the air quality is likely to be in the severe category in Delhi on Thursday, and it is likely to be in the very poor category from Friday to Sunday.
Smog Situation in Pakistan
In neighbouring Pakistan, the provincial government of the northeastern Punjab province directed the public to remain at home and ordered public and private offices to implement work from home policies to protect people from high levels of smog. The Environmental Protection Agency said the current air quality index (AQI) of Lahore is 313, which is very dangerous for health.
Government Measures
The Punjab government has already closed schools in several districts and ordered the closing of all markets at 8 pm while also restricting outdoor activities, including a ban on entering parks, zoos, museums, and sports venues to protect people. AQI, which measures a range of pollutants, spiked above 500 on last week in Lahore, well over the dangerous standard of 300.
Conclusion
The severe air quality conditions in New Delhi and Lahore are a cause for concern, and it is essential to take immediate measures to mitigate the effects of pollution. Governments and individuals must work together to reduce emissions and improve air quality to ensure a healthier environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current air quality index in New Delhi?
A: The current air quality index in New Delhi is 424, which is considered severe.
Q: What is the cause of the severe air quality conditions in New Delhi?
A: The severe air quality conditions in New Delhi are caused by the burning of crop stubble by farmers in nearby areas and the emissions of coal-fired plants and industrial units around the city.
Q: What measures have been taken by the government to mitigate the effects of pollution?
A: The government has taken several measures, including closing schools and markets, restricting outdoor activities, and implementing work from home policies to protect people from high levels of smog.
Q: What is the current air quality index in Lahore?
A: The current air quality index in Lahore is 313, which is very dangerous for health.