Thick smog blankets Capital, air quality remains ‘very poor’
A thick layer of smog engulfed the Capital and the air quality in Delhi remained in the ‘very poor’ category for the second consecutive day, with a recorded index of 393, up from 371 a day earlier, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
The Supreme Court expressed displeasure over the poor implementation of GRAP-4 restrictions, especially those related to the entry of trucks. The top court said the highest GRAP-4 restrictions would continue until at least November 25 when it would review if it can be lifted.
Of the total 35 monitoring stations in Delhi, 22 reported “severe” air quality, with AQI readings exceeding 400, compared to just six on Thursday.
The Centre’s Decision Support System (DSS) for Air Quality Management attributed 15.16 per cent of Delhi’s pollution on Friday to vehicular emissions, while stubble burning, another major contributor, accounted for 17.9 per cent of PM2.5 levels on Thursday.
Amid Delhi’s escalating pollution crisis, the CPCB has highlighted limited feasibility of cloud seeding as an emergency measure during winters in northern India, citing insufficient moisture and reliance on pre-existing clouds influenced by western disturbances.
In an RTI reply, the central pollution body, citing IIT-Kanpur study, said pre-existing clouds with at least 50 per cent moisture are essential for the success of such an initiative.
It said in northern India, winter clouds are often influenced by western disturbances, and the moisture content in the air remains low, limiting the scope of successful operations, according to the CPCB reply.
The CPCB also highlighted the estimated cost of the proposed experiment, which is approximately Rs 3 crore. The proposal includes a minimum coverage area of 100 km² and involves five sorties (cloud seeding attempts).
It came against the backdrop of the Delhi Government’s frequent requests to the Centre seeking permission for artificial rain to combat the rising level of pollution in the Capital.
Meanwhile, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai called for urgent and coordinated action to tackle the Capital’s deteriorating air quality. In a letter to the Chief Secretary of Delhi, Rai emphasised that all departments have been instructed to strictly enforce GRAP measures and ensure the success of the Winter Action Plan 2024. The letter stressed the need for immediate and sustained action to combat the pollution crisis.
The minister underscored the importance of adhering to GRAP guidelines, which include restricting vehicular emissions, controlling construction-related dust, addressing industrial pollution and prohibiting the open burning of waste. Departments have been directed to submit daily reports on their progress and actions under GRAP, with stronger enforcement mechanisms and penalties for violators to ensure compliance.
