Delhi, the capital city of India, has recently been reported as the most polluted city in the world following the Deepavali celebrations, according to a survey by Swiss air purifier company IQAir. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi reached an alarming level of 287, surpassing cities like Lahore in Pakistan and other major Indian cities, including Mumbai and Kolkata.
The AQI is critical for measuring pollution levels and is based on the U.S. methodology. It specifically measures PM 2.5 levels, which are fine particulate matter known to be detrimental to respiratory health. In the case of Delhi, the post-Deepavali period has seen these levels spike significantly.
Despite a ban on firecrackers in Delhi, their usage during the festivities contributed substantially to the city's pollution levels. In some areas, PM 2.5 levels were recorded as being 30 times higher than the safe limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The air quality in Delhi continues to deteriorate, with several regions classified under the "severe" category, indicated by an AQI value of 400. Such high pollution levels pose serious health implications for the general population, affecting even healthy individuals and severely impacting those with pre-existing health conditions.
On Deepavali day, Patna in Bihar reported the highest average PM 2.5 pollution levels, while Bengaluru exhibited the lowest levels among major Indian cities. This variation highlights the need for targeted interventions in pollution management.
Experts are advocating for a phased-out approach to the firecracker industry, promoting community fireworks or the lighting of lamps as alternatives to individual firecracker usage. These community-based solutions aim to reduce pollution while preserving cultural traditions.
The government has been considering various emergency measures to tackle the pollution crisis, including implementing odd-even vehicle usage rules and exploring artificial rain as a potential solution. These measures are essential to mitigate the adverse effects of pollution on public health.
The post-Deepavali period has brought to light the severe air pollution problem in Delhi, necessitating urgent and effective measures to protect both public health and the environment. Addressing this crisis is imperative for the well-being of all citizens.
Q1. What is the current AQI level in Delhi?
Answer: Delhi's AQI level has reached an alarming 287, making it the most polluted city globally, particularly after the Deepavali celebrations.
Q2. How does firecracker usage impact air quality?
Answer: Firecrackers significantly contribute to air pollution, with PM 2.5 levels in some areas reported to be 30 times higher than WHO safe limits, despite being banned.
Q3. What health risks are associated with severe air pollution?
Answer: Severe air pollution can affect healthy individuals and poses severe health risks for those with pre-existing conditions, leading to respiratory issues and other health complications.
Q4. What measures can reduce air pollution in Delhi?
Answer: Experts suggest phasing out firecrackers, promoting community celebrations, and implementing emergency measures like odd-even vehicle rules to combat air pollution.
Q5. Which city reported the highest PM 2.5 levels on Deepavali day?
Answer: Patna reported the highest average PM 2.5 pollution levels on Deepavali day, highlighting the need for focused pollution control efforts in various cities.
Question 1: What was the AQI level recorded in Delhi post-Deepavali?
A) 200
B) 287
C) 350
D) 400
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which city had the lowest PM 2.5 levels during Deepavali?
A) Patna
B) Bengaluru
C) Delhi
D) Kolkata
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What is the primary health risk associated with PM 2.5 pollution?
A) Heart disease
B) Respiratory issues
C) Skin problems
D) Vision loss
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What alternative to firecrackers is suggested by experts?
A) Individual fireworks
B) Community fireworks
C) No celebration
D) Indoor celebrations
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What emergency measure is the government considering to reduce pollution?
A) Increasing vehicle usage
B) Odd-even vehicle rules
C) Promoting firecracker use
D) Ignoring the issue
Correct Answer: B
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