Dense smog pushes visibility to zero in Delhi, air quality also deteriorates to severe
A thick layer of smog engulfed Delhi and neighbouring areas on Sunday morning, affecting train and flight services. The dense fog, which reduced visibility to almost zero, caused significant disruptions to daily life in the national capital. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), visibility was recorded at zero at Safdarjung station in Delhi, highlighting the severity of the situation.
The poor visibility led to the delay and cancellation of several trains and flights, leaving commuters stranded. The situation was further exacerbated by the deteriorating air quality, which plunged to the severe category. Anand Vihar station recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 491 at 8 am, indicating a severe level of pollution. The AQI is a measure of the level of pollutants in the air, and a reading above 400 is considered severe.
The severe air quality and reduced visibility have significant implications for the health and well-being of residents in Delhi. Prolonged exposure to poor air quality can lead to respiratory problems, cardiovascular disease, and other health issues. The situation is particularly concerning for vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing medical conditions.
In response to the deteriorating air quality, the authorities have reimposed restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-IV). GRAP is a set of measures implemented to mitigate the effects of air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR). The plan involves a series of steps, including the closure of schools, the restriction of vehicle movement, and the implementation of odd-even traffic rules.
The reimposition of restrictions under GRAP-IV is aimed at reducing the level of pollutants in the air and improving visibility. However, the effectiveness of these measures in addressing the root causes of air pollution remains to be seen. The authorities must take a more comprehensive approach to addressing the issue, including the implementation of long-term solutions to reduce emissions from vehicles, industries, and other sources.
The current situation in Delhi highlights the need for a sustained effort to address the issue of air pollution. The city’s poor air quality is a result of a combination of factors, including the rapid growth of industries, the increasing number of vehicles on the road, and the lack of effective waste management systems. To mitigate these factors, the authorities must work towards implementing policies and initiatives that promote sustainable development and reduce the city’s environmental footprint.
One of the key steps that can be taken to address the issue of air pollution is to promote the use of clean energy sources. The city can transition to renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels. Additionally, the authorities can implement measures to improve energy efficiency, such as the use of LED lighting and the promotion of green buildings.
Another important step is to improve the public transportation system in Delhi. The city can invest in modern, eco-friendly buses and trains, and promote the use of non-motorized transport, such as cycling and walking. This can help reduce the number of vehicles on the road, thereby decreasing emissions and improving air quality.
The authorities can also take steps to improve waste management in the city. This can include the implementation of effective recycling programs, the promotion of composting, and the construction of modern landfills. By reducing the amount of waste that is sent to landfills, the city can decrease the amount of methane and other pollutants that are released into the air.
In conclusion, the current situation in Delhi, where dense smog has pushed visibility to zero and air quality has deteriorated to severe, is a cause for concern. The authorities must take immediate action to address the issue, including the reimposition of restrictions under GRAP-IV. However, a more comprehensive approach is needed to address the root causes of air pollution and promote sustainable development in the city. By working together, we can create a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment for all residents of Delhi.
News source: https://x.com/ANI/status/2012709713537053081
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