Delhi records first 'very poor' air quality with AQI of 324
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Pollution (air, water, plastic)· Prelims·
Air quality monitoring and source identification: a GS3 Environment and Ecology case study.
Why in news
Delhi recorded its first 'very poor' air quality of the season with an AQI of 324, prompting the use of the Decision Support System (DSS) to identify pollution sources.
Background
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported an AQI of 324 for Delhi, with Jahangirpuri recording a 'severe' level of 436. The Decision Support System (DSS) attributed 19.2% of the pollution to the transport sector and 8.4% to stubble burning.
Facts for Prelims
- FactAQI classification: 301-400 is 'very poor' and 401-500 is 'severe'
- BodyCPCB: Central Pollution Control Board is the body responsible for monitoring air quality
- S&TPM2.5: Fine Particulate Matter measuring 2.5 micrometres or less, capable of entering the bloodstream
- FactDSS findings: Transport sector (19.2%), stubble burning (8.4%), and industries (4.2%) were key contributors to Delhi's pollution
- PlaceJahangirpuri, Rohini, and Punjabi Bagh recorded 'severe' AQI levels
Prelims practice question
Which body is responsible for monitoring air quality in India?
- (a)National Green Tribunal
- (b)Central Pollution Control Board
- (c)Ministry of Environment
- (d)State Pollution Control Board
Show answer
Answer: (b) Central Pollution Control Board — The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is the body responsible for monitoring air quality.
For Mains
Q. Analyze the multi-sectoral challenges in curbing air pollution in the National Capital Region and evaluate the efficacy of the Decision Support System in identifying pollution sources.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Source attribution: Disparity between transport emissions and agricultural stubble burning contributions
- Health implications: Physiological risks of PM2.5 penetration into the bloodstream
- Regulatory response: Effectiveness of time-bound restrictions versus long-term industrial and vehicular emission controls
Keywords: Air Quality Index · PM2.5 · Decision Support System · Stubble Burning · Vehicular Emissions · Pollution Mitigation
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.