As per data from the CPCB, several localities registered AQI levels within the moderate range. The measurements included Anand Vihar at 176, Dwarka at 118, RK Puram at 176, Chandni Chowk at 118, Bawana at 123, and Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) at 106. The AQI scale ranges from 0 to 500 and is subdivided into six categories, indicating the degree of pollution and the corresponding health implications.

Understanding the AQI Categories

The classification of the AQI is as follows: an AQI of 0 to 50 is considered “Good,” representing negligible health risks. An AQI ranging from 51 to 100 falls under the “Satisfactory” category, which remains acceptable but may cause minor discomfort for sensitive groups, including children, seniors, and individuals with respiratory conditions. The “Moderate” category, covering an AQI from 101 to 200, suggests a rise in pollution that may provoke respiratory issues among people with pre-existing conditions such as asthma or heart ailments.

An AQI reading between 201 and 300 is deemed “Poor,” where continued exposure could lead to discomfort in breathing for many individuals, even those without health concerns. The “Very Poor” designation, encompassing AQI levels from 301 to 400, indicates that there is a risk of respiratory illnesses affecting even healthy individuals with prolonged exposure. The utmost hazardous category, “Severe,” includes AQI values from 401 to 500, where air quality becomes perilous for all inhabitants.

Upcoming Weather Forecast

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that similar weather patterns will persist across the Delhi-NCR region, with expectations of light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds reaching between 30 to 40 km/h, with gusts up to 50 km/h. On March 20, Delhi is anticipated to experience a predominantly cloudy sky with intermittent rain throughout the morning and early afternoon.

The IMD also stated that maximum temperatures will likely range from 25 to 27 degrees Celsius, whereas the minimum temperatures are projected to be between 15 and 17 degrees Celsius. As for March 21 and 22, a shift to partly cloudy skies is expected, with maximum temperatures gradually escalating to about 28 to 31 degrees Celsius.

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Call for Continued Vigilance and Implementation of Air Quality Measures

Despite the improvements, the CAQM has urged state agencies and the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) to remain vigilant and continue enforcing statutory directions and dust control measures. This proactive approach aims to sustain the current level of air quality and prevent a deterioration back to the ‘Poor’ category.

Overview of Graded Response Action Plan and Its Significance

According to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the Graded Response Action Plan is an emergency mechanism tailored for the entire NCR. It is predicated on average AQI levels and meteorological forecasts in the region, facilitating coordinated actions among various stakeholders and authorities to tackle worsening air quality situations. The development of the GRAP was informed by thorough scientific analysis, consultations with stakeholders, expert guidance, and historical data.

Initiation of Targeted Public Engagement Campaigns

Earlier in March, the CAQM rolled out a framework mandating NCR states and GNCTD to implement targeted Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaigns designed to address local sources of air pollution. This initiative aims to institutionalize ongoing public engagement as a fundamental aspect of pollution management across Delhi and NCR, focusing on fostering behavioral changes year-round rather than merely reactive measures during pollution spikes.

Recommendations for Enhanced Public Engagement Strategies

In its recent advisory, the CAQM encouraged all NCR states and GNCTD to guide relevant agencies in planning and executing targeted IEC campaigns that are in line with the principal sources of air pollution in the region. There is a strong emphasis on addressing key contributors such as vehicular emissions, construction dust, biomass combustion, and industrial discharges. The CAQM advocates a multi-faceted outreach approach, utilizing various mediums including print, electronic, and digital platforms, as well as social media and community-level efforts.

Collaboration with Community and Stakeholder Groups Encouraged

Engagement with groups such as Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), farmers’ collectives, transport unions, and market organizations has been particularly highlighted to ensure broad participation. States are also encouraged to explore innovative outreach models to amplify the effectiveness of these campaigns. The CAQM’s emphasis on collaboration aims to create a collective effort towards improving air quality across the region.

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Factors Behind Delhi’s Poor Air Quality

The ongoing conflict in the region does not fundamentally influence the air quality discrepancy; rather, it’s a reflection of entrenched pollution issues in Northern India. New Delhi is situated within the Indo-Gangetic Plain, noted for its severe pollution levels. The city is encircled by intense industrial activities, heavy vehicle traffic, and construction dust, along with seasonal agricultural burning from states like Punjab and Haryana. These factors significantly contribute to high levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which is the primary pollutant behind the toxic smog prevalent in the area.

Weather and Geographical Influences on Pollution

The geographical and meteorological conditions in New Delhi exacerbate the pollution problem. Weak wind patterns and recurring temperature inversions allow pollutants to accumulate close to the ground, particularly during winter and early summer. Research indicates that pollution levels within the Delhi-NCR area frequently surpass national standards, marking it as one of the most polluted regions in India.

Air Quality in Tehran: A Different Scenario

While Tehran is not devoid of pollution, its primary source is vehicular emissions, which are significant in contributing to air quality deterioration. However, unlike Delhi, Tehran does not experience large-scale crop residue burning, and its surrounding regions have fewer industrial clusters. Although the geographical basin of Tehran can trap pollutants during winter inversions, it generally registers lower background levels of particulate matter compared to New Delhi.

Impact of Conflict on Air Quality Misunderstood

Initial assumptions suggested that fires at Iranian oil facilities amid the conflict could degrade air quality. Nonetheless, experts have clarified that the recent haze observed in northern India is attributed to dust transported from regions like Balochistan and the Thar Desert, rather than smoke from Iran. This comparison illustrates a larger reality; urban pollution caused by traffic, industry, and agricultural practices can create a more sustained air quality crisis than the temporary environmental repercussions of conflict.

Long-Term Challenges for Clean Air in Delhi

The residents of New Delhi, numbering over 20 million, face an enduring struggle for cleaner air. This challenge is not fought on traditional battlegrounds but through policy initiatives, technological advancements, and regional collaboration aimed at mitigating air pollution.

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Advisory by Delhi airport and Air India

Delhi airport has issued an advisory to all passengers travelling from IGI Airport regarding the delay and cancellations because of dense fog conditions. “Due to the prevailing dense fog conditions, flight operations are currently being conducted under CAT III protocols, which may result in delays or cancellations. Our ground teams are on-site and actively assisting passengers to ensure a smooth travel experience,” the advisory read. The advisory added, “For the latest flight updates, please reach out to your respective airlines. We sincerely regret any inconvenience caused.”

Apart from the airport, airlines issued advisory, Air India in the advisory said: “…We anticipate impacts on flight schedules and potential cascading delays across our network. We are keeping a close eye on the situation and have taken proactive measures to minimise inconvenience to our passengers. This includes planned cancellation of some morning flights most likely to be affected by fog with advance information to passengers to avoid prolonged and uncertain wait at the airports. In the event of any unexpected delay, diversion or cancellation of flights, our airport teams will remain at your service to extend necessary assistance and support.” The advisory further added, “To give you more control over your travel, our FogCare initiative allows passengers booked on certain flights during the fog window, which may be affected, to receive advance alerts on their registered phone numbers, offering the option to reschedule their flights without any additional payment or seek a full refund on their bookings without penalty.”

Advisory by IndiGo and SpiceJet

IndiGo said that the departure as well as the arrival of the flights will be affected due to minimum visibility across many airports in North India. “We are closely monitoring the situation and are making operational adjustments wherever required to keep journeys moving as smoothly as possible. Should there be any changes to your flight, timely updates will be shared on your registered contact details and through our digital channels. Our teams remain attentive and ready to assist, and we will continue to keep you informed as conditions evolve.” On the other hand, SpiceJet said all departures and arrivals will be affected due to foggy conditions in Delhi. “Passengers are requested to keep a check on their flight status,” it noted.

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शाम की हवा सुबह से 40% ज्यादा जहरीली

नेताजी सुभाष यूनिवर्सिटी ऑफ टेक्नोलॉजी और AARC इंजीनियर्स एंड कंसल्टेंट्स इंडिया द्वारा किए गए इस संयुक्त अध्ययन में पाया गया कि शाम के समय PM2.5 का स्तर सुबह की तुलना में 40% और PM10 का स्तर 23% अधिक होता है। रोज़मर्रा की थकान के बाद जब लोग घर लौटते हैं और खुली हवा में सांस लेते हैं, उसी समय वे सबसे अधिक जहरीले कणों के संपर्क में आते हैं। इसका सीधा असर फेफड़ों और हृदय पर पड़ता है, जो लंबे समय में गंभीर बीमारियों को जन्म दे सकता है।

दुनिया की सबसे प्रदूषित राजधानी—दिल्ली

इस शोध में 2019 से 2023 तक दिल्ली के 39 एयर क्वालिटी मॉनिटरिंग स्टेशनों के हर 15 मिनट पर रिकॉर्ड हुए डेटा का विश्लेषण किया गया। इसमें साफ दिखा कि दिल्ली में कुछ विशेष समय पर प्रदूषण अत्यधिक बढ़ जाता है, जिसमें शाम का समय सबसे खतरनाक है।

IQAir की World Air Quality Report 2023 के अनुसार, दुनिया के 10 सबसे प्रदूषित शहरों में से 9 भारत में हैं। दिल्ली लगातार दुनिया की सबसे प्रदूषित राजधानी बनी हुई है, जहां PM2.5 और PM10 के स्तर WHO की सुरक्षित सीमा से कई गुना अधिक दर्ज किए जाते हैं।

कौन से इलाके सबसे ज्यादा प्रदूषित?

स्टडी के मुताबिक, दिल्ली के इंडस्ट्रियल और व्यावसायिक इलाकों में प्रदूषण सबसे अधिक पाया गया। इसका मुख्य कारण है:
फैक्ट्रियों का लगातार धुआँ
भारी ट्रैफिक
बढ़ती जनसंख्या और भीड़भाड़
इसके विपरीत, सेंट्रल दिल्ली में प्रदूषण तुलनात्मक रूप से कम रहा, क्योंकि यहां पेड़ों की संख्या अधिक है और ट्रैफिक नियंत्रण बेहतर है।
COVID-19 लॉकडाउन के दौरान जब सड़कें खाली थीं और फैक्ट्रियों की गतिविधियाँ थम गई थीं, तब दिल्ली की हवा में उल्लेखनीय सुधार दर्ज किया गया। यह साबित करता है कि यदि ट्रैफिक और इंडस्ट्री को संतुलित किया जाए, तो दिल्ली की हवा बहुत जल्दी बेहतर हो सकती है।

सबसे खतरनाक कण—PM2.5 और अल्ट्राफाइन पार्टिकल्स

विशेषज्ञों का कहना है कि दिल्ली की हवा में मौजूद कण अलग-अलग स्तर पर शरीर को प्रभावित करते हैं:
PM10 — गले और सांस की नली में जलन, खांसी, अस्थमा और ब्रोंकाइटिस बढ़ाते हैं
PM2.5 — फेफड़ों के सबसे भीतर तक जाकर रक्त प्रवाह में पहुँच जाते हैं
अल्ट्राफाइन पार्टिकल्स — खून में घुसकर दिल, दिमाग और नर्वस सिस्टम को नुकसान पहुँचाते हैं
ये कण महीनों या सालों तक शरीर में मौजूद रह सकते हैं।

दिल्लीवासियों के लिए जरूरी सावधानियाँ

विशेषज्ञ प्रदूषण के प्रभाव को कम करने के लिए कुछ उपायों को अत्यधिक महत्वपूर्ण बताते हैं:
घर में एयर प्यूरीफायर का उपयोग
बाहर निकलते समय N95 मास्क पहनना
रोज़ाना यात्रा करने वालों के लिए वाहन में पोर्टेबल एयर प्यूरीफायर
शाम के समय अनावश्यक बाहर निकलने से बचना
भीड़भाड़ वाले रास्तों की बजाय वैकल्पिक रूट चुनना
इन उपायों से PM2.5 और PM10 के प्रभाव को 75–80% तक कम किया जा सकता है।

स्टडी की चेतावनी—सावधानी ही समाधान

दिल्ली की हवा हर साल जहरीली होती जा रही है, लेकिन यह नई स्टडी बताती है कि प्रदूषण पूरे दिन समान नहीं रहता। सबसे बड़ा खतरा शाम के समय होता है, जब लाखों लोग अनजाने में सबसे खराब हवा में सांस लेते हैं। विशेषज्ञों की सलाह है—सावधानी, सही आदतें और सरकारी प्रयास मिलकर ही राजधानी की हवा को बेहतर बना सकते हैं।

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