The air quality in Delhi-NCR continues to deteriorate, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 243, placing it in the 'Poor' category, according to recent data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

In response to the escalating pollution levels observed over recent days, the Sub-Committee under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) of the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) convened urgently today. The committee aimed to assess the current air quality situation in Delhi-NCR and evaluate technical insights and forecasts provided by experts from the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) and the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).

Discussions during the meeting underscored rapidly shifting wind patterns, driven by high convection rates and arid conditions compounded by soaring temperatures. These factors contribute to the prolonged suspension of dust particles across the National Capital Region (NCR). Additionally, concerns were raised regarding increased instances of agricultural residue burning in the vicinity of the NCR and forest fires in neighbouring states, further exacerbating the region's air quality crisis.

Responding to these developments, the GRAP Sub-Committee issued urgent directives to pertinent stakeholders and agencies. Authorities have been instructed to conduct rigorous inspections at major pollution hotspots, focusing on implementing dust abatement measures and closely monitoring their efficacy. Moreover, the frequency of water sprinklers and mechanical road sweeping equipment in the region will be increased to mitigate dust accumulation.

Vigilance will be maintained to monitor instances of fire outbreaks and open burning of municipal solid waste (MSW) in and around the NCR, with a mandate to enforce preventive measures. Dust Control and Management Cells (DCMCs) within road-owning agencies have been tasked with ensuring strict adherence to prescribed measures in all road construction and maintenance endeavours.

State Pollution Control Boards (PCBs) and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) are mandated to bolster enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with dust control measures at construction and demolition (C&D) project sites. Flying squads under the CPCB will intensify inspections to take appropriate action against sites or projects found to be violating statutory directives.

The collaborative efforts of all concerned agencies are anticipated to yield improvements in Delhi's overall AQI in the days ahead. The Sub-Committee remains vigilant and committed to frequent reviews of the air quality situation in Delhi-NCR, with a steadfast resolve to address the pressing environmental concerns plaguing the region.