As winter envelops the Delhi-NCR region, a familiar foe resurfaces—air pollution. The capital is once again grappling with hazardous air quality as the Air Quality Index (AQI) plunges into the 'very poor' category. With predictions of further decline, authorities are taking urgent measures, including shifting schools to hybrid learning modes to safeguard public health.
Air Quality Hits 'Very Poor,' Poised to Worsen
Delhi’s AQI recorded a 24-hour average of 343 on Tuesday, as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Though marginally better than Monday’s AQI of 349, the improvement offers little comfort. Early Tuesday morning, the AQI was an alarming 396, edging dangerously close to the 'severe' category.
Multiple air quality monitoring stations across the city confirmed the grim scenario. By 6:30 a.m., 18 of the 38 stations reported AQI levels above 400, marking 'severe' air quality. Hotspots like Anand Vihar, Ashok Vihar, and Mundka recorded AQI levels exceeding 430, underscoring the pervasive nature of the pollution crisis.
The Role of PM2.5 and PM10 Pollutants
Delhi’s smog-laden air is dominated by fine particulate matter—PM2.5 and PM10. On Tuesday afternoon, PM2.5 levels reached 143 µg/m³, while PM10 measured 325 µg/m³. These microscopic particles are the most hazardous to human health, capable of penetrating deep into the lungs and bloodstream, causing long-term respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
Children, in particular, are highly vulnerable to these pollutants, prompting urgent interventions to reduce exposure.
Also Read: Viral Railways Video Sparks Debate: When Is the Right Time to Perform CPR?
Temporary Relief Quickly Reversed
Monday offered a fleeting respite from severe pollution levels. Certain areas even recorded AQI readings in the 'satisfactory' category, such as Lodhi Road, where the index dropped to 95. However, the improvement was short-lived. By evening, a combination of low wind speeds and high pollutant levels saw the AQI surge back to 'very poor.'
Between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m., Delhi's AQI jumped from 218 to 377. By 5:30 p.m., seven monitoring stations reported 'severe' air quality, a figure that doubled to 14 just two hours later.
View this post on Instagram
Schools Shift to Hybrid Learning
Acknowledging the escalating health risks, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has advised schools in Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Noida to adopt a hybrid mode of teaching. This allows students to attend classes online or in person, depending on their circumstances and safety concerns.
The Supreme Court has also emphasized the importance of resuming physical classes, particularly for students dependent on mid-day meals or those without access to online education. However, the hybrid option is seen as a critical safeguard, especially for children susceptible to the adverse effects of PM2.5 pollutants.
Also Read: Listeria Outbreak In US Linked To Ready-To-Eat Meat; Symptoms To Look Out For
Causes of Alarming Pollution Levels
Delhi’s pollution crisis is the result of a complex interplay of factors. According to the Centre's Decision Support System for Air Quality Management, vehicular emissions are the largest contributor, accounting for 22.2% of the city’s pollution on Tuesday. Other significant contributors include:
- Stubble Burning: Seasonal agricultural practices contributed 6.9% of pollution on Monday.
- Construction Dust: Rampant urban development adds to particulate matter in the air.
- Factory Emissions: Industrial zones release significant amounts of pollutants daily.
- Firecrackers: Residual effects from Diwali celebrations exacerbate the problem.
Health Implications and Urgent Need for Action
The current pollution levels pose severe health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. Prolonged exposure to PM2.5 can lead to chronic respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and even premature mortality.
With the AQI expected to worsen due to unfavorable wind patterns, there is an urgent need for sustained, multi-pronged interventions. While short-term measures like hybrid schooling and reduced vehicular traffic can offer some relief, long-term solutions must address the root causes of pollution.
Bottomline
As Delhi braces for a potential escalation in air quality issues, it is imperative for authorities and citizens to work collaboratively. Increased monitoring, stricter enforcement of pollution control measures, and public awareness campaigns are essential to mitigating the impact.
The adoption of hybrid learning for schools serves as a reminder of the adaptability required in times of environmental crises. However, addressing Delhi's annual battle with air pollution demands a robust commitment to sustainable development and cleaner practices across sectors.