Delhi recorded highest pollution days in November; AQI remained ‘severe’ for 11 days

Yesterday, the average air quality index again reached the critical level (402) for the 11th day, breaking the record set on November 16, when the air quality remained at this level for 10 days in a row.

Last year, Delhi saw nine severe days and 2019 saw seven days. Whereas in 2018, the air quality remained severe for 5 consecutive days.

The CBCB said that Delhi has not witnessed moderate air quality for a single day in November this year.

According to experts, Delhi’s air is deteriorating due to several factors like late arrival of monsoon and delay in stubble burning.

However, pollution is at its peak in Delhi-NCR due to local pollutants.

Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) is expected to improve from November 29 due to higher wind speed.

An official said local surface winds are likely to increase slightly for the next two days, leading to dispersal of pollutants and a slight improvement in air pollution, but the AQI will be in the “high end of very poor” range.

The air quality monitor SAFAR of the Ministry of Earth Sciences said, “The mixing layer height and wind are the key factors controlling the air quality. From November 29, the AQI is expected to improve significantly due to higher wind speed.”

A few days back, the Delhi government had again banned construction and demolition activities following a Supreme Court order.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said that whose financial assistance will be provided to the workers affected by the ban on construction activities? 5,000 each and his government will also compensate for the loss of minimum wages.

The ban on entry of trucks except those engaged in essential services will continue till December 3. However, “CNG and electric trucks will be allowed to enter Delhi from November 27”.