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Delhi, the national capital of India, experienced a temporary respite from severe air pollution on Tuesday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) dropping to 268, categorized as 'poor.' However, this improvement is expected to be short-lived as experts predict a surge in toxic smog around Diwali, driven by increased emissions from firecrackers and agricultural waste burning.
The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) in Pune forecasts a concerning rise in AQI levels, potentially exceeding the 'severe' mark of 400 on October 31 and November 1. This deterioration is attributed to a combination of factors, including weak winds blowing at 4-8 kmph, a descending inversion layer in the atmosphere, and unusually high day temperatures around 34-35℃. These conditions hinder the dispersal of pollutants, exacerbating the problem.
Prof. Gufran Beig, a prominent air quality expert and former founder-director of SAFAR (System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research), emphasizes the potential for a disastrous scenario if these factors align. He highlights that the descending inversion layer, coupled with weak winds, significantly reduces the atmosphere's ventilation coefficient, hindering the dispersion of pollutants.
Adding to the already concerning air quality situation, the bursting of firecrackers during Diwali is expected to further exacerbate pollution levels. This year, while there has been a noticeable decline in stubble burning incidents compared to previous years, with Punjab reporting a nearly 50% reduction, the peak burning season is yet to arrive. Prof. Beig warns that if the winds shift to a north-westerly direction during the peak burning period, Delhi could witness a significant influx of PM2.5 pollutants.
Experts emphasize the need for a comprehensive air-shed approach to address Delhi's persistent air pollution problem. While road dust contributes to high PM10 concentrations, the focus should be on curbing PM2.5, the most toxic particulate matter, primarily generated from the combustion of fossil fuels. They advocate for reducing congestion on roads and implementing emission control measures in surrounding states. Unless these measures are implemented, achieving a significant improvement in Delhi's air quality remains a distant goal.
Source: AQI Improves, But Delhi’s Toxic Smog May Turn 'Severe' This Diwali; Here's Why