Delhi Chokes As Air Quality Hits 'Severe' Levels: Special Task Force Formed To Tackle Crisis

In a grim turn of events, Delhiites woke up to a thick layer of haze and smog on Friday morning as the air quality in the national capital continued to hover in the 'severe' category. Many areas in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) reported an alarming air quality index (AQI) above the 400 mark, with the overall AQI for the city standing at 404, indicating severe pollution levels.

According to the latest data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), specific areas painted a dire picture, with Anand Vihar recording an AQI of 447, RK Puram at 465, and Dwarka at an alarming 490. The situation was no better in other regions, as ITO, Mundka, and Wazirpur reported AQIs of 428, 428, and 468, respectively.

In an effort to combat the escalating crisis, the Delhi Government announced the formation of a 6-member Special Task Force (STF). This STF will be responsible for enforcing the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)-IV guidelines, already in force, and will coordinate with various departments to control the deteriorating air quality. The move comes in response to the aftermath of Diwali festivities and a surge in stubble burning in neighbouring states.

Satellite imagery on Friday revealed a staggering 1,271 stubble-burning incidents in Punjab, 46 in Haryana, and 56 in Uttar Pradesh. The persisting conditions prompted the Air Quality Early Warning Systems for Delhi to forecast that the air quality in the national capital is likely to remain 'very poor' from Friday to Sunday.

Meanwhile, Mumbai, in the aftermath of Diwali, experienced comparatively better air quality, with an overall AQI standing at 145 on Friday morning. However, certain areas like Bandra Kurla Complex (230 AQI) and Navi Mumbai (227 AQI) fell into the 'poor' category, prompting the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to issue a stop-work notice to 296 construction sites that failed to adhere to air pollution mitigation guidelines.

The highest number of notices were issued by the Kandivali East ward, totalling 135, followed by Jogeshwari East, Andheri East, and Vile Parle East, as reported by Hindustan Times. Simultaneously, the Mumbai Traffic Police organized an event at the Traffic Police Headquarters in Worli to raise awareness against vehicular pollution as part of the "Drive against vehicles causing Air Pollution" campaign.

In response to the concerning air quality levels, several schools in Mumbai, including Bombay International School, Dhirubhai Ambani International School, and NL Dalmia High School, have taken proactive measures. These institutions have installed air filters, and enhanced air purification systems, and are regularly monitoring the AQI to provide a safe and clean environment for students.

As Delhi and Mumbai grapple with the aftermath of Diwali celebrations and the challenges posed by stubble burning, the urgency to address air pollution becomes increasingly evident. The formation of the Special Task Force in Delhi and proactive measures in Mumbai signal a collective effort to combat the deteriorating air quality and safeguard public health.