Mon Nov 18 14:20:00 UTC 2024: **Delhi Chokes on Toxic Air: AQI Reaches 978, Equivalent to Smoking Nearly 50 Cigarettes a Day**
NEW DELHI – Delhi is grappling with its worst air quality crisis in years, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) soaring to a staggering 978 on November 18th. This alarming level is equivalent to inhaling the pollutants from almost 50 cigarettes daily, according to aqi.in. The crisis, attributed to factors including stubble burning and firecrackers, has prompted strong criticism from the Supreme Court, which reprimanded the Delhi government for delays in implementing pollution control measures.
Schools, except for grades 10 and 12, have suspended in-person classes due to the hazardous conditions. Neighboring Haryana is also severely affected, with an AQI of 631 (equivalent to 33 cigarettes a day), while Uttar Pradesh and Punjab reported AQIs of 273 (10 cigarettes a day) and 233 (8 cigarettes a day) respectively.
The Supreme Court has mandated the continuation of Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), even if the AQI temporarily improves, to ensure preventative measures remain in place. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi Marlena questioned the increase in stubble burning in states other than Punjab, despite her party’s efforts to reduce it there.
In stark contrast, Ladakh enjoys exceptionally clean air, while Arunachal Pradesh also boasts significantly better air quality. The disparity highlights the urgent need for comprehensive nationwide strategies to combat air pollution.
First Piper 