Pollution and Smog in Delhi Ease After Light Rains, More Showers Expected
New Delhi witnessed a slight respite from the toxic haze and improved air quality as overnight rains cleared up the pollution. The relief comes just ahead of Diwali on Sunday, with the weather agency predicting further improvement. The Delhi government is also in talks with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) to explore the possibility of artificial rains to combat the deteriorating air quality.
The capital city has been grappling with severe pollution for the past week, with levels of harmful particles reaching up to 100 times the limits recommended by the World Health Organization. Until Thursday, Delhi held the title of the world’s most polluted city.
According to data from the government’s air-quality monitoring agency SAFAR, the overall air quality in Delhi at 7 am today was recorded at 407. Some of the worst-affected areas include Ashok Vihar (443), Anand Vihar (436), Bawana (433), Rohini (429), and Punjabi Bagh (422). Neighboring cities like Noida, Gurugram, and Faridabad also continue to suffer from severe pollution, with their air quality index (AQI) readings ranging from 325 to 475.
However, there was a significant drop in the levels of pollutants PM 2.5 and PM10 after 4 am across Delhi and its surrounding areas.
In the meantime, the Delhi government is taking steps to combat pollution, including the consideration of artificial rain. Several ministers from the Aam Admi Party were seen inspecting anti-pollution initiatives on Thursday night.
The Supreme Court will also review measures to improve air quality, including stricter traffic regulations and addressing the role of construction dust, which is a major contributor to pollution in the city.
The current airflow is carrying smoke from crop residue burning in Punjab and Haryana to Delhi, exacerbating the pollution problem along with local sources of pollution and the lack of wind.
Overall, the light rains have provided temporary relief to the residents of Delhi, but long-term solutions are needed to address the city’s severe pollution crisis.
