Students wear anti-pollution masks, air quality dips to ‘poor’ category in Delhi

Nov 06, 2019

New Delhi, Nov 06 (ANI): A thick layer of smog blankets Delhi on November 06. As the air quality continues to be poor, several students were seen wearing anti-pollution masks while going to school. Schools have opened today after an extended Diwali break due to air pollution. According to the Air Quality Index (AQI) data and System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), major pollutants in Delhi’s Lodhi Road area were PM 2.5 at 279 and PM 10 at 250 both in 'poor' category. Higher value of AQI indicates greater level of air pollution and health concern. Residents have complained of a spike in respiratory problems, allergies and other health issues. The air quality of Delhi took a major hit due to a combination of stubble burning, firecracker emissions and unfavourable meteorological conditions. On November 01, the Supreme Court-mandated Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) declared public health emergency in Delhi due to rising air pollution levels. As per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, the AQI in ITO area is at 434 which reflects ‘severe’ category. To curb air pollution, the Arvind Kejriwal led-government in Delhi has announced the implementation of the odd-even scheme from November 04-November 15.