The return of smog in Delhi signals the onset of another winter marked by poor air quality. On Wednesday morning, visibility issues and air quality concerns became evident as temperatures dropped. This change occurred just a day after the Dussehra festivities, which may have contributed to the worsening conditions. Stubble burning in neighbouring states and unfavourable weather patterns that trap pollutants are significant factors as the city approaches its winter pollution season.

According to the Air Quality Early Warning System (AQEWS), Delhi’s air quality was projected to decline into the ‘poor’ category starting Wednesday, remaining there until October 23. This forecast followed an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 179 on Tuesday, categorising the air quality as ‘moderate’. By early Wednesday, several areas in the capital had already recorded ‘poor’ AQI levels.

At midnight, the AQI readings were notably high, with 273 in Bawana, 262 in Dwarka Sector 8, 248 at Delhi Technological University, and 230 at the Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range. The ‘poor’ category encompasses AQI readings between 201 and 300, indicating a significant decline in air quality.

Dussehra Celebrations Intensify Pollution Issues

Delhi’s Dussehra celebrations on Tuesday included various events such as Ramleela performances and the burning of effigies, which coincided with the seasonal decline in air quality. The festivities often lead to increased pollution levels due to fireworks and emissions from vehicles, construction activities, and industrial processes. The extent to which Dussehra celebrations contributed to the smog remains undetermined.

Another pressing issue is the stubble burning occurring in neighbouring states as farmers prepare for the next crop cycle. Earlier this month, the ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute reported 19 instances of farm fires across six monitored states, including Punjab and Uttar Pradesh. These fires release pollutants that can significantly impact air quality in Delhi, depending on factors such as the number and location of fires, wind direction, and atmospheric conditions.

As temperatures continue to fall, the potential for pollutant dispersion decreases, allowing emissions to accumulate near the ground. This situation is exacerbated by the seasonal transition that typically leads to poorer air quality.

Delhi Government Prepares for Winter Pollution Control Measures

The deteriorating air quality has prompted the Delhi government to prepare its Winter Action Plan, set to be implemented from November 1. This plan aims to address vehicular emissions, construction dust, industrial pollution, and other contributors to seasonal pollution in the capital.

Key components of the plan include a No PUC, No Fuel policy, which will deny fuel to vehicles lacking a valid Pollution Under Control certificate. Additionally, non-BS-VI-compliant vehicles registered outside Delhi will face entry restrictions, with certain exemptions. The government also plans to enforce a 50 per cent work-from-home policy, impose restrictions on construction activities, and enhance monitoring of dust pollution.

The Commission for Air Quality Management’s revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) will introduce progressively stricter measures based on pollution severity. These measures will target road dust, construction activities, and emissions from vehicles. With the forecast indicating several days of poor air quality, the immediate challenge for authorities will be to enforce existing pollution-control measures while preparing for the more challenging winter months ahead.

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