AQI 'severe' in many areas, Pg3.

Key Highlights:

• Delhi's 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) was 361 on Saturday, categorized as 'Very Poor'.
• Several monitoring stations in Delhi recorded 'Severe' AQI readings above 400, with Wazirpur highest at 434.
• IITM forecasts indicate that stubble burning is expected to contribute 31.24% to Delhi's PM2.5 levels on Sunday.
• CAQM held review meetings with Haryana and Punjab governments regarding actions to eliminate stubble burning.
• Punjab recorded 3,284 stubble burning incidents between September 15 and November 4, compared to 5,041 last year.
• Haryana reported 206 farm fires between September 15 and November 6, compared to 888 last year.
• DPCC clarified that there has been no manipulation of air quality data at monitoring stations.

Detailed Insights:

• The contribution of stubble burning to Delhi's PM2.5 levels is expected to rise, making it the most significant pollution source, followed by transport sector emissions at 14.25%.
• CAQM expressed serious concern over the poor operational condition and non-compliance with emission norms at Lehra Mohabbat Thermal Power Plant in Bathinda district.
• While Punjab has shown marginal improvement in reducing stubble burning incidents, some districts like Muksar and Fazilka have shown an increase.
• Haryana has demonstrated a significant decline in stubble burning incidents through incentive schemes, enforcement, and on-ground interventions.
• DPCC operates 24 monitoring stations, ensuring transparency in monitoring and reporting practices, with data published on the DPCC website and AQI calculated and released by CPCB.
• Pollution mitigation measures have been initiated proactively this year, unlike last year when GRAP Stage III curbs were enforced from November 13.
• The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) is a statutory body responsible for formulating strategies to combat pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR) and adjoining areas.

Key Concepts Involved:

• AQI (Air Quality Index): A tool used to communicate the level of air pollution and associated health risks.
• PM2.5: Fine particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, a major air pollutant.
• Stubble Burning: The practice of setting fire to crop residue after harvest, contributing to air pollution.
• GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan): A set of measures to be implemented based on air quality levels in Delhi-NCR.