AIR QUALITY "SEVERE+"
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, Delhi's overall 24 hours average air quality index (AQI) was 488 - worst in the country. The overall air quality of Delhi continued to be in the "severe+" category. Air pollution of many cities and towns were also "severe" or "severe+" zone. The Delhi Government has termed the air situation a "medical emergency" and urged institutions to take preventive measures in the interest of public health. Several school and institutions in this region have already started shifting towards online mode by seeing the poor quality of air.
Read more: Air quality severe+ in Delhi
REASONS WHY POLLUTION IS INCREASING
1. Vehicular emissions- Delhi's high population leads to heavy traffic, resulting in significant emissions of pollutants like nitrogen oxide(NOx), particulate matter and carbon monoxide (CO). About 40% of Delhi's air pollution is attributed to vehicular emissions, with diesel vehicles being a major contributor.
2. Industrial emissions- Industries around Delhi, especially in areas like Ghaziabad, Noida and Faridabad release pollutants like sulphur dioxide(SO2) and due to the burning of fossil fuels pollution also occurs.
3. Crop stubble burning-Farmers in neighboring states burn leftover stubble after harvesting, releasing massive amount of smoke and carbon monoxide into the atmosphere.
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