On November 18, 2024, thick smog enveloped the Red Fort in Delhi's historic district. Photo: AFP
India relaxed certain pollution control measures in the north on Thursday as air quality improved, with smog clearing to reveal blue skies and Delhi recording a 'moderate' air quality index (AQI) reading of 165. Last month, as AQI levels surged, schools in the capital and neighboring areas were shut, some construction activities were halted, and offices were advised to allow 50% of their employees to work from home.
India's Central Pollution Control Board categorizes an AQI of 0-50 as 'good' and above 400 as 'severe,' posing risks to healthy individuals and significantly impacting those with pre-existing health conditions. The Commission for Air Quality Management, a government body overseeing air quality in the national capital region, eased restrictions due to their disruptive nature, the prevailing trend in air quality, and meteorological forecasts.
Some pollution control measures, such as mechanical sweeping, synchronized traffic movements, and increased vehicle parking fees, will continue to be implemented, monitored, and reviewed. This decision came hours after India's Supreme Court, which has been overseeing pollution control measures and their enforcement, authorized the Commission for Air Quality Management to relax restrictions, with the stipulation that they be reinstated if the AQI exceeds 350.
Air quality in Delhi is expected to deteriorate on Friday and remain poor for the rest of the week, with an anticipated AQI between 201 and 300, according to the Ministry of Earth Sciences. Each winter, Delhi faces severe pollution as cold air traps emissions, dust, and smoke from farm fires in Punjab and Haryana, causing respiratory issues for many of its 20 million residents. Swiss group IQAir has ranked Delhi as the world's most polluted capital city for four consecutive years.
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