Delhi needs to cut pollution level by 65 % to meet air quality standard: CSE

Delhi faces a daunting challenge of cutting pollution level by 65 per cent to meet the clans air standards, an environment think tank claimed on Friday.

The NGO, Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), analysed the annual air quality data recorded by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

According to the CPCB data, the three-year average of PM 2.5 (particulate matters with less than 2.5 microns width) levels during 2016-2018 was 25 per cent lower than the 2011-2014 baseline (three-year average).

"However, CSE cautions that even after this reduction and stabilisation, Delhi faces the daunting challenge of 65 per cent reduction from the current baseline to meet the clean air standards for PM 2.5," the NGO said in a statement.

The CSE, which released new results from its ongoing analysis of air quality trends in Delhi, however, said, "After the initiation of comprehensive clean air action plan and graded response action plan, there are early signs of stabilisation and bend in pollution curve, increased number of days in cleaner air quality index categories, and change in the pattern of smog episodes."