SAFAR Predicts Continued Poor Air Quality in Delhi

New Delhi- Delhi's air quality remained in the 'very poor' category on Monday, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 328, according to data from the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). While this marks a slight improvement from Sunday's AQI of 356, pollution levels continue to pose a serious health concern.

The ban on firecrackers, in place until January 1, has not had the immediate impact of improving air quality. SAFAR predicts that Delhi's air quality will remain in the 'very poor' category in the coming week due to unfavorable meteorological conditions preventing effective pollutant dispersion.

In different parts of the city, air quality fluctuated. Anand Vihar saw a slight improvement with an AQI of 357 at 7 AM, down from 'severe' levels on Sunday (AQI 405). However, the AQI near the Akshardham temple rose to 357, significantly higher than the previous day's 261.

The concerning air quality situation comes amidst the ongoing pollution of the Yamuna river. Toxic foam continues to accumulate at Kalindi Kunj, highlighting the severity of the environmental crisis. The issue has fueled tensions between the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva was hospitalized on Saturday after taking a dip in the Yamuna in protest against what he termed "corruption" by the Delhi government, specifically accusing AAP of misappropriating funds allocated for river cleanup.

Delhi's Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, responded by accusing the BJP of politicizing the issue, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to address pollution. "All governments and parties need to work together. While I wish them good health, theatrics won't solve pollution," Rai stated, adding that he had previously reached out to the BJP president during the preparation of the winter action plan but received no response.