Delhi’s air quality falls into poor category, AQI reaches 292; Gopal Rai reacts | Latest news India

Delhi continued to struggle with pollution on Friday, October 17, as the Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 292, placing it in the poor category.

The weather department has forecast clear skies for the day, with a maximum temperature expected to reach around 36 degrees Celsius.

Talking about the worsening air quality, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai said the government is committed to addressing the sources of pollution through its winter action plan.

He added that deteriorating weather conditions, including reduced wind speed and temperature, are contributing to the problem.

“The Delhi government is actively working to reduce the sources of pollution. We believe that with the cooperation of the people of Delhi, we can reduce the impact of pollution,” Rai said.

The city recorded a minimum temperature of 19.2 degrees Celsius, which is 1.1 degrees above normal, the weather department said.

An air quality index (AQI) ranging from 0 to 50 is classified as good, 51 to 100 as satisfactory, 101 to 200 as moderate, 201 to 300 as poor, 301 to 400 as very poor and 401 to 500 as severe.

The first stage of the Gradual Response Action Plan (GRAP) restrictions came into effect in the national capital on October 15 due to worsening air quality.

Stage 1 of the GRAP includes measures such as dust control at construction sites, effective waste management and frequent road cleaning.

The plan imposes strict control of polluting vehicles, better traffic management and stricter emission controls for industries, power plants and brick kilns.

It also calls for regular mechanized sweeping of roads, water sprinkling to reduce dust, strict dust control measures at construction sites and efficient waste management practices.

The plan outlines measures such as banning outdoor waste burning, limiting the use of diesel generators and banning coal or firewood in restaurants.

It emphasizes quick response to pollution related complaints through 311 app, Green Delhi app, SAMEER app and other social media platforms.

With PTI tickets