Air pollution level in Delhi remained in the 'very poor' category on Saturday, due to poor dispersion of pollutants and stagnant meteorological conditions, authorities said. According to data of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi was recorded at 346, which falls in the 'very poor' category.
‘Severe’ air quality was recorded at Wazirpur, while 34 other areas recorded 'very poor' air quality, according to the CPCB data.
The PM2.5 level was recorded at 175. Fine particulates can be a matter of serious health concern than PM10 (particles in the air with a diameter of less than 10 micrometres).
As per the data by the Centre-run System of Air Quality Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the PM10 level in Delhi stood at 302.
An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 "satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'.
The contribution from biomass fire is likely to be marginal on Friday and further for the next two days, said the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).
"Because of poor dispersion and stagnant meteorological conditions, no significant improvement is likely for the next two days," the IITM said.
The Centre-run System of Air Quality Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) has said no deterioration is expected till November 5.
However, there could be 'severe' deterioration from November 5 due to unfavourable meteorological conditions, authorities said.
According to the SAFAR, 10 per cent of PM2.5 pollution in Delhi on Saturday was caused due to stubble burning.
Steps to combat air pollution, like halt in construction activities and traffic regulations, have been taken by the Delhi authorities.
There is a halt on all construction activities involving excavation. Civil construction has also been suspended in Delhi and other NCR districts, besides closure of all stone crushers and hot mix plants generating dust pollution.
The Transport Department and the Traffic Police have also been directed by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) to intensify checking of polluting vehicles and control travel congestion in the region during November 1-10.
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