NEW DELHI: The Delhi government will step up efforts to curb pollution as air quality reaches alarming levels.
city’s air quality index On Thursday morning, the air quality index (AQI) reached 428, which is classified as “severe”. Wednesday’s air quality index was the worst in the country.
Environment Minister Gopal Rai explained that the current situation was due to lower wind speed and cooler temperatures. However, he said there is currently no need for stricter measures under GRAP III as improvements are expected.
Rai highlighted the impact of surrounding areas on Delhi’s air quality. He cited studies showing that 30% of pollution comes from local sources and 34% from the capital region.
The government will focus on implementing existing measures GRAP Phase 2.
“We will intensify all ongoing pollution abatement activities and actions,” Rai said.
He added that current plans would be reviewed and implementation strengthened to prevent the situation from deteriorating further.
