India has relaxed some of the restrictions it had put in place to control pollution in its northern region as air quality improved on Thursday. Smog made way for clearer skies, and Delhi recorded a “moderate” Air Quality Index (AQI) of 165.
Last month, when AQI levels were dangerously high, schools in Delhi and nearby areas were shut down, construction work was partially banned, and workplaces were advised to allow up to 50% of employees to work from home.
Understanding AQI Levels
India’s Central Pollution Control Board categorizes AQI readings from 0-50 as “good,” while anything above 400 is labeled “severe,” posing health risks even to healthy individuals and severely impacting those with pre-existing conditions.
The restrictions were lifted due to their significant disruptions, the improvement in air quality, and meteorological forecasts, said the Commission for Air Quality Management, which oversees air quality in Delhi and the surrounding areas.
Ongoing Pollution Control Measures
Even with the easing of restrictions, certain steps to reduce pollution will continue, such as mechanical road sweeping, better traffic management, and increased parking fees. These measures will be monitored and adjusted as necessary, according to the commission.
The order to ease restrictions came shortly after India’s Supreme Court, which monitors pollution control efforts, allowed the Commission for Air Quality Management to lift some measures. However, the court mandated that restrictions be reinstated if the AQI crosses 350.
Upcoming Air Quality Challenges
The Ministry of Earth Sciences has forecasted a decline in Delhi’s air quality, with an expected AQI of 201-300 (considered “poor”) on Friday and for the rest of the week.
Each winter, Delhi faces severe pollution as cold air traps emissions, dust, and smoke from farm fires in nearby states like Punjab and Haryana. This leads to respiratory problems for many of its 20 million residents.
For the last four consecutive years, Swiss air quality monitoring group IQAir has ranked Delhi as the world’s most polluted capital city.
