An analysis of data collected by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) over the last five years revealed that people in the national capital breathe the “worst” air between November 1 and November 15 every year.
The capital’s average PM2.5 level wavers between very poor and severe categories from October 16 to February 15. An average of PM2.5 concentration of 285 micrograms per cubic metre from November 1 to November 15 have been recorded. The PM2.5 level from 61 to 120 is considered moderate to poor, 121 to 250 is very poor, 251 to 350 is severe and more than 350 is severe plus.
An official from the environment department said, that the average PM2.5 level reach 285 micrograms per cubic meter from 80 micrograms per cubic metre. From October 15 to November 1 a major increase in pollution levels is seen. During this time all sources of pollution are active and it is the period when stubble burning rises. He said, there is smoke from firecrackers and dust pollution.
From December 16 to December 31 is the second-most polluted period in Delhi. The average PM2.5 concentration during this period stands at 218 micrograms per cubic metre.
According to officials, the major reason for the high air pollution level is waste burning because this is the time when Delhi records its lowest temperatures and festivals. From January 1 to January 15 the capital sees the third most polluted fortnight stretches. The average PM2.5 concentration during this period is 197 micrograms per cubic metre.
Based on the data, the government will make interventions as part of the winter action plan to curb pollution, the official said.
