Delhi's overall air-quality 'very poor', some areas record 'severe' pollution
Delhi's overall air quality remained in the 'very poor' category today, while pollution levels in some areas touched 'severe' levels due to low wind speed, authorities said. According to the Center-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR), the overall air quality index in the national capital was recorded at 387, which falls in the 'very poor' category. Read more.
13 areas recorded 'severe' air quality, 23 recorded 'very poor'
Thirteen areas in the city recorded 'severe' air quality whereas 23 recorded 'very poor' air quality, according to data of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Today, the level of PM2.5 (particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers) was recorded at 248, while the PM10 (particulate matter 10 micrometers or less in diameter) level was recorded at 402, CPCB stated.
Air-quality to remain 'very poor' for next 2-3 days: SAFAR
According to SAFAR, the air quality in Delhi is expected to remain in the 'very poor' category for the next two to three days. "At present, winds are unfavorable for dispersion (of pollutants) but it may increase slightly to favor dispersion. Humidity is still high which is (also) unfavorable. Fire counts from stubble burning also declined," it said in a report.
Will Delhi government use artificial rain to solve pollution problem?
Authorities are mulling inducing artificial rain to clear the toxic air but cloud seeding would require certain meteorological conditions, which are currently not favorable. Artificial rain is a type of weather modification an is done by spraying clouds with silver iodide or solid carbon dioxide.
