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Delhi experienced a welcome respite from its usual air pollution woes, recording a 'satisfactory' air quality day for the second consecutive day. The Air Quality Index (AQI) on Sunday stood at 99, a significant improvement compared to the polluted conditions the city often faces. This positive development, however, is juxtaposed with a less encouraging forecast: temperatures are expected to rise considerably over the next few days, signaling a shift in weather patterns. The influence of the western disturbance, which brought light rain and strong winds, has waned, paving the way for warmer conditions. The maximum temperature is projected to reach 36-38 degrees Celsius by March 20th, indicating a noticeable increase in heat. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reveals an interesting trend. While March 2024 had not witnessed any 'satisfactory' air quality days until this recent improvement, March 2023 had three such days. Furthermore, no 'satisfactory' days were reported in March 2022 or 2021, underscoring the fluctuating nature of air quality in Delhi and the impact of various factors on its levels. The recent improvement in air quality can be attributed to the favourable meteorological conditions resulting from light rain and strong winds in Delhi and its surrounding areas. These conditions helped to disperse pollutants and reduce their concentration in the atmosphere. Consequently, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) took the decision to revoke Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) with immediate effect in the National Capital Region (NCR). This move indicates a degree of confidence in the sustained improvement of air quality, at least in the short term. Stage I of GRAP typically involves measures such as increased parking fees and restrictions on construction activities, aimed at curbing pollution levels during periods of poor air quality. The lifting of these restrictions reflects the positive change in air quality observed over the past few days.
Despite the recent positive developments, experts caution against complacency and emphasize the need for long-term sustainable solutions to address Delhi's air pollution problem. Sunil Dahiya, Founder and Lead Analyst at Envirocatalysts, points out that while rain and strong winds provide temporary relief from hazardous air quality, this is not a sustainable solution. He argues that the base emissions from contributing sectors across the larger airshed exceed the region's capacity to provide safe, breathable air. This highlights the fundamental challenge facing Delhi: the need to reduce emissions at the source, rather than relying on weather patterns to temporarily alleviate the problem. The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, under the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences, forecasts that Delhi's air quality is expected to remain in the 'moderate' range until March 19th. Beyond that, the forecast for the following six days suggests that air quality may deteriorate, highlighting the unpredictable nature of pollution levels and the ongoing need for vigilance. The maximum temperature recorded on Sunday was 31.9 degrees Celsius, three degrees above normal for this time of year. This indicates a gradual warming trend, which is consistent with the broader climate change patterns observed globally. A Met official stated that since the impact of the western disturbance is over, clear skies are likely to cause a rise in mercury. The day temperature is likely to stay around 31-33 degrees Celsius on Monday, but it may reach between 36 and 38 degrees Celsius by March 20th. The night temperature is also expected to rise, potentially touching 18-20 degrees Celsius by March 21st.
The combination of improving air quality and rising temperatures presents a complex challenge for Delhi's residents and policymakers. While cleaner air is undoubtedly a positive development, the increasing heat poses its own set of risks, including heat stress, dehydration, and increased demand for electricity for cooling. The need to address both air pollution and climate change simultaneously requires a comprehensive and integrated approach. This approach should include measures such as promoting public transportation, investing in renewable energy sources, enforcing stricter emission standards for vehicles and industries, and implementing policies to encourage sustainable land use. Furthermore, public awareness campaigns are crucial to educate citizens about the health risks associated with both air pollution and heat waves, and to promote behaviours that can mitigate these risks. These behaviours may include using public transportation, conserving energy, staying hydrated, and avoiding strenuous activity during peak heat hours. The situation in Delhi serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of environmental challenges and the need for sustainable solutions that address multiple issues simultaneously. A temporary reprieve from air pollution, while welcome, should not overshadow the urgent need for long-term strategies to protect the health and well-being of Delhi's residents and to ensure a sustainable future for the city. Continuous monitoring, data analysis, and adaptation of policies are essential to navigate the complex interplay of air quality, temperature, and other environmental factors.
Source: Delhi posts second ‘satisfactory’ air day in a row, mercury to rise