Severe Air Pollution Triggers GRAP-3 Restrictions in Delhi-NCR
New Delhi, January 30 : The air quality in Delhi-NCR has deteriorated significantly, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing 300, pushing it into the ‘severe’ category. As a result, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has enforced GRAP-3 restrictions, including a ban on BS-3 petrol and BS-4 diesel vehicles, along with a halt on construction activities. Additionally, classes up to grade five will shift to hybrid mode.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s average AQI on Wednesday stood at 365, classifying it as ‘very poor’ air quality, posing severe health risks.
Why Has Air Quality Worsened?
The rapid increase in pollution levels over the past two days has been attributed to:
- Low wind speed, reducing pollutant dispersion.
- Hazy conditions, trapping pollutants closer to the surface.
- Low mixing height, limiting vertical dispersion.
- Poor ventilation, exacerbating pollution buildup.
On January 28, Delhi’s AQI was recorded at 276, but within 24 hours, it surged to 365 by January 29 evening. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) predict that similar conditions will persist in the coming days.
Temperature to Rise Further Amid Western Disturbance
The western disturbance has begun affecting northwest India, shifting wind patterns and bringing in easterly winds, leading to a rise in temperature.
- On Wednesday, Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 25.5°C, which is 3°C above normal and similar to the previous day’s 25.4°C.
- By the weekend, maximum temperatures are expected to remain between 24°C and 27°C.
- Cloudy conditions will lead to warmer nights, with minimum temperatures rising to 10-12°C by the weekend.
- Thursday’s forecast suggests clear skies, but temperatures will stay elevated.
Western Disturbance to Bring Rain on February 1-2
Delhi is expected to experience two western disturbances, leading to:
- Snowfall in the northern hills, sending cold winds towards Delhi.
- A likely dip in temperatures due to incoming chill.
- Light rain in Delhi and surrounding areas on February 1 and 2.
However, the IMD clarified that rainfall will not significantly impact temperatures. On Wednesday morning, wind speeds were recorded at 10-15 km/h, but they are expected to intensify slightly ahead of the anticipated rainfall event.
With pollution levels high, rising temperatures, and an incoming western disturbance, Delhi’s weather will witness significant fluctuations in the coming days.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.