Experts advice caution, urge preparation for winter Monsoon normalise air quality index in capital

New Delhi, July 1: Even as air quality in Delhi improved to satisfactory level last week, environmental experts have cautioned that it's no time to rejoice and asked both the central and AAP governments to step up preparedness for the winter, when air quality plummets to very poor levels.

While environmental experts want the Environment Ministry to fully notify the Supreme Court approved Comprehensive Clean Air Action plan for systemic reforms to kick start immediately, others say the foremost priority for the ministry is to roll out a national clean air programme by setting up time- bound emission targets to reduce air pollution. With monsoon rains helping the air quality improve to satisfactory level for the first time in nearly a year, Delhiites breathed the cleanest air last week, authorities said.

The Air Quality Index ( AQI) value for the capital came down to "satisfactory" 83 on June 29. AQI between 0- 50 is considered "good", 51- 100 "satisfactory", 101- 200 "moderate", 201- 300 "poor", 301- 400 "very poor", and 401- 500 "severe".

There was a dip in the air quality level on June 13 due to dust storms in western India that pushed the air quality level to "severe plus," bringing to light that emergency level pollution could be a "summertime problem" too.

Anumita Roychowdhury, executive director ( research and advocacy) and head of CSE's air pollution programme, told us that after the massive dust fall about a fortnight ago much awaited rains have arrived to wash away the dust and particles from the air. Immediately, the levels have plummeted to below the ambient air quality standards. Monsoon brings a short respite and provides some space to breathe free, but for how long, she asked.

"Before the rain dance ends, both the central and city governments have to step up their action and preparedness for what awaits us this winter. From seasonal air quality data every year we know this deceptive lull lasts only till September as the pollution fury returns with vengeance in October," she said.