Delhi’s air quality persisted in the “very poor” category on Monday morning, registering an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 306. This marked a slight increase from the previous day’s reading of 302, according to data from the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (Safar).
Meanwhile, addressing the deteriorating air quality of the city, Delhi’s Environment Minister Gopal Rai cited the onset of colder weather and a reduction in wind speed as contributing factors. He expressed concerns about the potential escalation of pollution, particularly as particulate matter continued to be trapped near the ground.
In a statement given to ANI, Rai underscored that Delhi had initiated the second phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), known as GRAP Phase 2, in response to the worsening air quality. To address this critical issue, meeting has been called with all the concerned departments to discuss the execution of the GRAP phase 2 at 12 pm today, he informed.
It is pertinent to note that GRAP Phase 2, primarily focuses on implementing measures such as cleaning and water sprinkling to combat pollution.
Meanwhile, despite recognizing the uncontrollable influence of weather, Rai further in his statement also stressed the paramount importance of curbing pollution sources to mitigate the situation. He also disclosed that discussions had taken place with the environment ministers of neighboring states to address the issue of stubble burning, a major contributor to air pollution in the region. He added, the ministers have assured their commitment to take action against stubble burning.
Haryana continues with stubble burning
Meanwhile, despite stringent challans, stubble trouble continues in Haryana with farmers claiming they have been left with no options.
Notably, despite the state’s Agriculture Department imposing fines totaling Rs 53,000, a total of 48 cases of stubble burning have been reported in Haryana this season.
