New Delhi: Air quality in Delhi remained in the 'very poor' category for the second consecutive day on Sunday, following an improvement from the 'severe' category. The average Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 313 at 6 am, a significant decrease from the 398 AQI recorded on Saturday morning.
Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data at 6 am indicated AQI levels of 325 in RK Puram, 323 in New Moti Bagh, 292 in the IGI Airport area, 329 in Anand Vihar, and 337 in Nehru Nagar, with most falling under the 'very poor' category. The 24-hour average AQI for Delhi was 319 on Saturday, marking a notable decline compared to 405 on Friday, 419 on Thursday, 401 on Wednesday, 397 on Tuesday, 358 on Monday, and 218 on Sunday.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) lifted anti-pollution curbs under Stage-IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi and adjoining areas after the air quality improved from 'severe' to 'very poor.' The decision was made based on the conclusion that the AQI in the national capital did not further deteriorate in recent days.
Delhi authorities announced that government-aided and private schools would resume offline classes from November 20 after the revocation of GRAP IV curbs. All students from pre-school to standard 12 will return to in-person classes, with outdoor sports activities and morning assemblies suspended for the next week. Despite the measures taken, Punjab reported over 600 stubble-burning incidents, with farmers defying Supreme Court orders to halt farm fires, contributing to increased pollution levels in Delhi-NCR.
President Droupadi Murmu addressed the Delhi pollution issue, emphasizing the need for sustainable jet fuels to decarbonize the economy. She also highlighted the urgency of adopting new propulsion technologies such as electric, hydrogen, and hybrid on a large scale.
Alleged ₹3,237 Crore Scam: Union Minister Accuses Delhi Jal Board Under AAP Government
TS Singh Deo Foresees Congress Victory: Positive Impact of Governance
Halting Halal: Yogi Adityanath's Decision Reshapes Food Standards