Delhi's Air Quality Improves Slightly Amid Pollution Control Measures

Air Quality Index Shows Improvement

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported a slight enhancement in Delhi's air quality on Wednesday morning, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) dropping from 'severe' to 'very poor'. The AQI was recorded at 336 in the morning, a significant decrease from Tuesday's reading of 415. According to the CPCB's 'Sameer' app, 36 out of 40 air quality monitoring stations in Delhi reported AQI levels categorized as 'very poor'.

Visibility Affected by Fog

In Nehru Nagar, the highest AQI was noted at 392. CPCB categorizes AQI levels as follows: 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor, and 401-500 severe. Fog and haze in certain areas of Delhi reduced visibility early in the morning.

Weather Conditions in Delhi

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded a minimum temperature of 10.2 degrees Celsius in Delhi, which is 2.7 degrees above normal. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 19 degrees Celsius, with humidity levels at 100%. The IMD has forecasted light fog throughout the day.

Delhi Government's Pollution Control Initiatives

Amid rising concerns over air pollution, the Delhi Cabinet made several significant decisions on Tuesday aimed at strengthening public transport, enhancing environmental governance, and tightening pollution control measures. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa announced these decisions during a press conference.

Changes in Public Transport Management

One major decision involves the management of public transport. The Cabinet has dissolved the responsibility of the Delhi Integrated Multi-Modal Transit System (DIMTS), which previously operated 50% of the buses in the city. Now, the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) will manage 100% of the bus operations in the capital, which is expected to improve route rationalization and efficiency in public transport services.

E-Waste Recycling Plant Approved

Additionally, the Delhi government has approved the establishment of an e-waste recycling plant in Holambi Kalan, which will span 11.5 acres and operate without wasting water.

Revival of Water Bodies

Plans to revive over 1,000 water bodies in Delhi have also been approved, with 160 directly under government jurisdiction. An initial allocation of 100 crore rupees has been set aside for restoration, with provisions for additional funding if necessary.

Fuel Sales Linked to Pollution Control

To further tighten pollution control, the government has decided that fuel will not be sold in Delhi without a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC), even after the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is lifted. Authorities have begun inspecting PUCC centers across the city, with irregularities found in 12 centers leading to their suspension. The Cabinet has also approved four automatic vehicle testing centers and allowed the use of anti-smog guns and mist cannons on tall buildings to combat air pollution.

Closure of Polluting Industries

In a move to tackle industrial pollution, the government has ordered the closure of over 800 polluting industries in Delhi. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has issued closure notices to 411 units, while the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has sealed approximately 400 such industries. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta reiterated that the government will implement a zero-tolerance policy against all sources of pollution.

High-Level Review Meeting on Pollution Control

A high-level review meeting was held at the Delhi Secretariat on Monday to assess pollution control measures and make effective decisions. Key decisions included strict enforcement of Pollution Under Control (PUC) regulations without exemptions, considering the introduction of pooled and shared electric bus services in Delhi-NCR, issuing new guidelines for e-rickshaws, and improving DTC bus routes.