Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Delhi’s air quality has hit a disturbing milestone, with November’s average PM2.5 concentration reaching 249 µg/m³ — the highest for the month since 2016, according to a report by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA). This figure highlights the ongoing struggle to combat air pollution in the capital despite efforts like the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
PM2.5 Levels Over the Years
The PM2.5 concentration this November is second only to November 2016, which recorded 254 µg/m³. Comparatively, recent years showed fluctuating levels, with 241 µg/m³ in 2023, 181 µg/m³ in 2022, and 248 µg/m³ in 2017.
PM2.5 particles, measuring 2.5 micrometres or smaller, pose severe health risks as they can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream.
Long-Term Issues with GRAP Measures
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) implements GRAP to combat seasonal pollution. However, CREA’s report questions the effectiveness of these measures. It revealed that transportation alone contributed over 20% of PM2.5 levels in November, reflecting conditions similar to pre-GRAP periods.
“Delhi saw an eight-day stretch in the ‘Severe’ category (>250 µg/m³) from November 13 to November 20 due to delayed GRAP implementation,” noted Manoj Kumar, CREA analyst.
Stubble Burning and Other Contributors
Stubble burning accounted for 19% of November’s pollution, while the remaining came from year-round sources like vehicular emissions, industries, and construction. The report emphasized the need for a long-term airshed-based strategy instead of relying solely on short-term measures.
Impact Across NCR
Pollution levels weren’t confined to Delhi. Neighboring cities like Ghaziabad, Gurgaon, and Noida also saw severe air quality, with 28 NCR cities exceeding the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) limit of 60 µg/m³.
Health Risks and Future Strategy
Delhi experienced 20 days in the “Very Poor” category (121-250 µg/m³) and 10 days in the “Severe” category (>250 µg/m³) in November. This persistent pollution underscores the urgent need for policies addressing perennial sources of pollution beyond seasonal measures like GRAP.
