Delhi Air Quality Back to Being ‘Very Poor,’ Set to Worsen

Delhi Air Quality Back to Being ‘Very Poor,’ Set to Worsen

Although it might have seemed like the air quality in the capital was steadily improving, we are back in the 'very poor' category.

The AQI level in the Delhi NCR region has dropped and is predicted to worsen by Thursday, 5 December.

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi was at 305 (Very Poor), as of 8:30 am today, 4 December.

Also Read: What Does the Air Quality Index Really Show Us?

The PM2.5 levels across specific areas in Delhi do not paint a pretty picture either :

• North Campus- 311 (Very Poor)
• IIT Delhi- 307 (Very Poor)
• Lodhi Colony -293 (Poor)
• Chandani Chowk- 368 (very poor)

SAFAR also warns that the numbers are set to only get worse come Thursday and even more so by Friday.

A possible reason for the pollutant build-up could be high-speed winds from up north.

According to SAFAR’s official website, here’s what the numbers mean:

• 0 - 30: Good. Air quality is considered satisfactory, and air pollution poses little or no risk.
• 30-60: Satisfactory. Air quality is acceptable; may be a moderate health concern for sensitive people.
• 60-90: Moderate. Sensitive groups (with lung, heart diseases) may experience health issues.
• 90-120: Poor. Everyone may begin to experience health issues like respiratory problems.
• 120-250: Very Poor. Health warnings of emergency conditions. Entire population is likely to be affected.
• 250-380: Severe. Health alert: everyone may experience more serious health issues.

(India, and the Capital especially, has been in an air pollution crisis. How has the hazardous air #pollution impacted you? Write down your #PollutionKaSolution and send it to us at [e-mail]. )

Also Read: Delhi’s Air Pollution Can End, By Learning From Beijing