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19 Oct 2024

Toxic Foam in Yamuna River Worsens Pollution Situation in Delhi; AQI plummetes in many parts of NCR


New Delhi: As winter approaches, a thin layer of smog blanketed Delhi and its surrounding regions on Saturday, worsening the already declining air quality. The Air Quality Index (AQI) plummeted to the 'Poor' category in many parts of the National Capital Region (NCR), raising concerns among residents and authorities alike.


In addition to the air quality crisis, another alarming development has emerged in the form of toxic foam blanketing the Yamuna River. This hazardous foam, caused by industrial waste, contains high levels of ammonia and phosphates, posing significant health risks, including respiratory and skin problems, according to environmental experts.


The pollution in the Yamuna is particularly concerning given the proximity of major festivals like Chhath Puja, during which many devotees use the river for rituals. Experts have called on the government to urgently address this issue and manage the pollution levels in the river.



At 8:20 a.m. on Saturday, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 273, indicating 'Poor' air quality, while neighboring cities such as Ghaziabad and Noida reported AQIs of 246 and 228, respectively. Some parts of Delhi were hit even harder, with AQI levels rising to the 'Very Poor' category. Notably, the highest AQI readings were recorded at Akshardham and Anand Vihar, both reaching 334. Areas around the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) reported an AQI of 253, and at India Gate, the AQI settled at 251, both categorized as 'Poor'.


Gopal Rai holds emergency meeting 


In response to the deteriorating air quality, Delhi's Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, held an emergency meeting with relevant officials to address the rising pollution. Rai expressed concern over the growing pollution levels as winter draws closer and emphasized the need for urgent action. He has directed authorities to investigate local sources contributing to the escalating pollution.


“Winter is coming, and the level of air pollution is rising. Delhi's air quality has slipped into the 'Poor' category. There are 13 pollution hotspots across the city where the AQI has exceeded 300,” Rai said during a press conference. He listed areas such as Wazirpur, Mundka, Rohini, Jahangirpuri, Anand Vihar, Dwarka Sector-8, Bawana, Narela, Vivek Vihar, Okhla Phase 2, Punjabi Bagh, Ashok Vihar, and RK Puram as some of the worst affected. Wazirpur reported the highest AQI among these areas.


Political Backlash


During his press conference, Rai also addressed criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) regarding the Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) handling of Delhi’s air pollution crisis. He defended the government's efforts, asserting that the BJP had no grounds to criticize the AAP's actions. Rai criticized the BJP-led governments in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, and at the central level for their alleged inaction on controlling pollution.


“The opposition has no right to comment on this issue. The BJP government is sleeping in UP, Haryana, Rajasthan, and at the Centre, while pollution levels continue to rise,” Rai said.


GRAP Implemented


In an attempt to combat rising air pollution levels, the Delhi government has already implemented Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This action plan outlines various measures that will be enforced in stages based on the severity of air quality in the region. With pollution levels expected to worsen as winter progresses, further stages of GRAP may soon be activated.


As the capital battles its annual pollution crisis, both the government and citizens brace for the harsh reality of deteriorating air quality. While the authorities are taking action, the upcoming winter months will be critical in determining whether these efforts will be enough to mitigate the situation.

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