Delhi's air quality improves, but remains close to 'severe', curbs imposed

The air quality in Delhi and neighbouring areas has marginally improved, after it plumeted to 'the severe' level on Tuesday. 

The overall air quality index of Delhi was recorded at 391 by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) on Thursday morning.

The Ministry of Earth Science's air quality website, SAFAR showed Delhi's air quality as 'very poor' with PM10 level at 370 and PM2.5 level at 215.

An AQI of 0-100 is considered 'Good+Satisfactory', 101 to 200 'moderate', 201 to 300 'poor', 301 to 400 'very poor' and 401 to 500 'severe', as per SAFAR.

The marginal improvement came after the environment panel imposed curbs on some industries amid forecasts that pollution may worsen.

The Supreme Court-appointed Environment Pollution Control Authority (EPCA), which is monitoring the pollution levels, announced restrictions on construction activities, hot mix plants, coal and biomass-based industries, brick kilns and stone crushers in the NCR.

It said it could also restrict movement of private vehicles and entry of trucks to Delhi, if needed.

The state pollution control bodies have been directed to initiate criminal prosecution against violators.

The EPCA urged people to reduce the use of private vehicles and completely stop plying diesel vehicles during this period.

On its part, the Delhi government on Wednesday said it was "fully prepared" to implement the emergency plan.

"The Delhi government is fully prepared to take measures as per Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), including the odd-even scheme are concerned. We will take them when needed," Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot said.