NEW DELHI: Between October 15 and October 24, Delhi’s air quality experienced notable swings, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) consistently indicating alarming pollution levels. For the majority of these days, the AQI, which calculates the air quality based on the quantity of different pollutants, indicated unhealthy conditions.
Residents should exercise caution when the AQI reached an alarming level of 184 on October 15. The AQI increased to 199 the next day, further emphasizing the declining air quality as the situation deteriorated. The peak occurred on October 17, when the AQI hit a dangerously high 231 and the public was issued health cautions.
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On October 18, however, there was a small improvement in the air quality, with the AQI falling to 159. However, it soon returned to dangerous levels, staying between 156 and 163 from October 19-20. The capital’s ongoing pollution sources were indicated by the high readings’ constancy. The AQI briefly increased to 157 on October 22, although the improvement was fleeting.
With readings of 150, the AQI showed a slight decrease on October 23 and 24. Despite being labeled as “unhealthy for sensitive groups,” this nevertheless demonstrated a significant concern for vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and people with underlying medical disorders.
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Numerous causes, including a building activity, vehicle emissions, and seasonal agricultural burning in nearby regions, are to blame for the decline in air quality during this time. Health officials issued cautions about the possible health effects of extended exposure to such poor air quality because of the dangerous environment created by these pollutants.
The latest data highlights the pressing need for efficient measures to prevent environmental degradation and protect public health, especially as Delhi continues to struggle with air pollution. To lessen the effects of air pollution in the city, more public awareness efforts, tighter emission laws, and improved monitoring are crucial.