Delhi records worst air quality this season

NEW DELHI: Friday's air quality in the Capital was reported to be the worst this season, gradually inching towards the 'severe' category, as parts of the massive Bhalswa landfill site continued to smolder.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi at 361 Friday morning, falling in the 'very poor' category. On Thursday, Delhi had recorded an AQI of 331.

Air quality in the Capital had shown signs of improvement last Monday as it moved from 'very poor' to 'poor' category. However, it dipped to 'very poor' again Wednesday, on account of a fire which had broken out at Bhalswa landfill site in north west Delhi late Sunday.

A Delhi Fire Service official on Friday said that a fire tender was stationed at the landfill site as parts of the dump were still smoldering.

"The deteriorating air quality in Delhi-NCR again points towards lack of will in our politicians and the system to control or stop pollution sources. A few days back, we heard that now the authorities can predict the air pollution levels for next 72 hours.

"Not sure if they are doing it and even if they are doing it, what action has been taken," said Sunil Dahiya, a environment activist.

He further said, "It is not a question of coming out with gimmicks and reaction to rising media and public debate. The Ministry of Environment and Forests, Delhi Pollution Control Committee, state pollution control boards along with the central and state Governments have to come up with sustainable solutions with time-bound targeted approach for pollution reduction with fixed accountabilities across sectors as soon as possible."

Dahiya further said that the National Clean Air Programme, in its modified forms with fixed targets, should be implemented now without any further delay.