Delhi Chokes: Air Quality Reaches Dangerous Levels

Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is currently in effect, triggering specific measures to curb pollution. These include restrictions on construction activities, industrial operations, and vehicular traffic.

The national capital is grappling with a severe air pollution crisis, with several areas recording alarmingly high Air Quality Index (AQI) levels. Anand Vihar, for instance, saw an AQI of over 600, the worst this season so far. The overall AQI in Delhi stands at a hazardous 434.

A Health Hazard: The current PM2.5 concentration is a staggering 59 times higher than the WHO’s safe limit. Prolonged exposure to such polluted air can lead to severe health issues, including lung and brain damage.

Government Intervention: To combat the worsening air quality, the Delhi government has initiated several measures:

Deployment of Anti-Smog Guns: Over 200 mobile anti-smog guns have been deployed across the city to reduce dust pollution.
Strict Enforcement: Authorities have fined over 54,000 vehicles without pollution certificates and seized 3,900 overweight vehicles.
Waste Management: Strict actions have been taken against illegal waste dumping and burning.
Industrial Inspections: Over 1,400 industrial buildings and diesel generators have been inspected, and penalties imposed on non-compliant units.

GRAP in Action: Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is currently in effect, triggering specific measures to curb pollution. These include restrictions on construction activities, industrial operations, and vehicular traffic.

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A Plea for Clean Air: As Delhi continues to battle this environmental crisis, it is imperative for individuals, industries, and the government to work together to reduce pollution and ensure a healthier future for the city.