Ahead of Diwali, national Capital's air quality has crossed the “severe” mark with dangerously high pollutant values. The average concentration of pollutants has been recorded 574 (µgm-3) by System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).
According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) the wind will drop from October 29 while SAFASR predicts that the PM2.5 levels will breach the severe category.
While Delhi Government is still planning to curb air pollution in city, the National Air Quality Index (NAQI) on Friday recorded pollutant levels beyond the severe category. Environmentalists said the situation is alarming as the polluted air can cause serious health hazards.
“This leaves no room for additional pollution in the city especially from the crackers, lacing the environment with deadly cancer causing substances,” said Center for Science and Environment Executive Director (research and advocacy) Anumita Roychowdhury.
The latest analysis of the air quality data by CSE at the onset of this winter showed that killer particles have already increased by nearly two times since September.
“Toxic fumes from fireworks will only worsen this trend and will also deposit deadly chemicals in our environment that will remain trapped for days after Delhi is awaiting a deadly winter. Action to control pollution this winter must gather momentum,” stated CSE.
The CSE's latest analysis of the air quality data available from the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) showed the levels of tiny particles of less than 2.5 micron size in October have already increased two times since September this year.
“In September, 23 per cent of days were in poor category and 13 per cent in very poor, and no day has experienced severe pollution. But in October, the share of poor air quality days have increased to 27 per cent, that of very poor to 57.7 per cent. In addition, 3.8 per cent of days have already experienced severe pollution,” the CSE stated.
WORST HOURS: 11PM to 3 AM (Night of Oct 30-31)
There is enough moisture in the air and winds are stagnant and atmospheric holding capacity of the emissions coming from firecrackers has increased. The highest levels of PM10 and PM2.5 are expected between 11 am and 3 am on the night of October 30 to 31. Air Quality will be worst on 31st October and start to improve from November 1 to 20.