NEW DELHI: Delhi, like its counterpart Mumbai in Maharashtra, is grappling with a persistent air quality crisis, as both cities continue to endure 'very poor' air quality conditions, raising concerns about respiratory problems and impending smog as the winter season approaches. Gopal Rai, the Environment Minister of Delhi and a prominent member of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), has officially disclosed the implementation of the second phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the national capital.

Minister Rai revealed that the initiation of GRAP's second phase is primarily aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of escalating pollution levels in Delhi. Furthermore, he emphasized the convening of a crucial meeting scheduled for Monday at noon, involving all relevant government departments, in order to strategize and coordinate the execution of GRAP's second phase in Delhi. This decision is particularly pertinent given the forthcoming Diwali festival.

In Minister Rai's words, "As Delhi experiences a drop in temperature and reduced wind speed, the likelihood of increased pollution becomes more pronounced. Particulate matter remains close to the ground. The second phase of GRAP is now in effect in Delhi. While we cannot control the weather, it is imperative that we manage pollution sources effectively to minimize the health impacts on our citizens."

Recognizing the approaching winter season, efforts are being made to address another potential pollution source. Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) are being encouraged to provide heaters to their residents to discourage the burning of bonfires.

Update on Delhi's Air Pollution Status

As of Monday morning, the overall air quality in the national capital has been classified as 'Very Poor,' with an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 306, up from 302 recorded on the previous Sunday afternoon, according to data from SAFAR-India.

The air quality situation in the National Capital Delhi has regrettably deteriorated from 'Poor' to 'Very Poor,' with an AQI of 302 reported on the prior Sunday afternoon, according to statistics compiled by SAFAR-India.

On Sunday morning, the air quality was rated as 'Poor' with an AQI of 266, a notable increase from the AQI of 173 recorded on the preceding Saturday.

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