Delhi’s air quality ‘hazardous’; residents advised to limit outdoor exposure

There are six categories of AQI, namely ‘Good’ (0-50), ‘Satisfactory’ (50-100), ‘Moderately polluted’ (100-200), ‘Poor’ (200-300), ‘Very Poor’ (300-400), and ‘Severe’ (400-500). AQI above 500 is generally referred to as in the ‘hazardous’ category.

Delhi is expected to see a mainly clear sky with shallow fog during the morning hours, according to the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC). The maximum temperature is forecast to be around 25-27 deg C and the minimum around 10-12 deg C.

Here are some of the most polluted areas in Delhi, according to aqi.in

GRAP schedule

Following the Supreme Court observations this week, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) tightened Delhi-NCR’s pollution-response framework by moving several actions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to earlier stages. The CAQM, which is the main pollution control watchdog for the region, formally revised the GRAP schedule. This means that from now on, several measures such as staggered timings, expanded public transport and even the option of work-from-home will begin at lower pollution levels than earlier.

Health Effects

The toll of the air pollution is greater on children who remain mostly outdoors. They often experience watery eyes, asthmatic symptoms, itchy skin, etc. An increase in the AQI can lead to severe conditions, such as persistent coughing, severe shortness of breath, intense wheezing, significant chest tightness or congestion, itchy throat, and burning eyes.

Delhiites should avoid stepping outdoors as much as possible. If stepping out, an N-95 mask must be worn. Outdoor exercises, such as jogging, running, and yoga, should be avoided. Schools in Delhi have already stopped outdoor activities.

If  you have an air filter at home or in your car use them optimally. In case of any respiratory trouble, visit the doctor immediately.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has imposed the Graded Response Action Plan Stage-III (GRAP-3) due to the high pollution. It is imposed when the AQI is in or threatens to rise in the range of 401-450.

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