Air pollution hits dangerous levels ahead of Diwali; situation worsens in several areas
Noida (The Uttam Hindu): Air pollution in Delhi-NCR has crossed dangerous levels even before Diwali. Data on Thursday morning showed that the air quality in Ghaziabad's Loni and several areas of Noida has become worse than most areas of Delhi. The Air Quality Index (AQI) crossed 300, i.e. was recorded in the 'very poor' category. Loni in Ghaziabad recorded an AQI of 339, which is the highest in the entire region. At the same time, the AQI in Noida's Sector-125 reached 358, which is a major cause of concern.
Other areas of Ghaziabad are not far behind: Vasundhara and Indirapuram both recorded an AQI of 287, while Sanjay Nagar recorded an AQI of 260. The situation in Noida remains grim. Sector 116 recorded an AQI of 334, Sector 1 257, and Sector 62 207. The situation in Delhi is no better either.
According to the data, Anand Vihar's AQI is 335, Wazirpur's 337, Bawana's 281, and Mundka's 297. While the situation is relatively better in some areas, most areas are in the "poor" to "very poor" category. Given the deteriorating air quality, the first phase of the GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) designed to combat air pollution has been implemented.
This includes measures such as a halt to construction work and a ban on the use of diesel generators. However, experts believe that if pollution levels remain this high, a second, more stringent phase of GRAP may soon be implemented. October data shows that ozone and PM10 were the major pollutants. Their levels were recorded very high on several days, indicating a deterioration in air quality even before Diwali. An AQI in the 'very poor' category poses a serious health risk.
In this situation, all citizens, especially children, the elderly, and those with respiratory and heart problems, are advised to exercise extreme caution. Prolonged outdoor exposure should be avoided and indoor air purifiers should be used. It is crucial to follow government guidelines. Even before Diwali, air quality in Delhi-NCR has reached alarming levels.