Delhi: Air quality index slips to 218, categorised as 'poor'

The air quality in the National capital has degraded down to a new level. Taking into account the amount of smog and dust spotted in parts of Delhi and NCR the air quality has been categorized as 'poor'. In the early hours of Saturday, the air quality index (AQI) docked at 218, as per the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

READ: LG Baijal Welcomes Eco-friendly Diwali Celebrations In Delhi

Air quality in Delhi plunges into 'poor' category

The AQI between 50-100 is considered to be good, 51-100 is categorized as satisfactory, 101-200 is said to be moderate, 201-300 is poor, 301-400 is very poor while the 401-500 is marked as severe/hazardous. Dhirpur AQI was around 138 at 8:30 am while the Mathura Road came under the 'poor' category with a marking of 241. Furthermore, AQI near Chandni Chowk, Airport, Terminal 3 and Delhi University stood at 176, and 153 respectively.

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The organization has urged some 'Sensitive Groups' to cut down on the heavy exertion leading to the poor air quality. In addition, locals have been asked to engage more often in breaks rather than intense activities. Asthma patients have been asked to stock up and keep their medications if known symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath occurs. 

"Heart patients, see the doctor, if get palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue," the organization stated in its advisory.

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Lt Gov. Baijal Welcomes Eco-friendly Diwali

The Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Anil Baijal has welcomed the idea of an eco-friendly Diwali in the city this year. The Lt Gov. accepted the idea considering the critical status of the air quality in Delhi during winters on October 11. Lt Gov Baijal also took to Twitter to promote the idea. 

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He also chaired a meeting at Connaught Place in order to plan an eco-friendly Diwali in Delhi. The festival of Diwali will be celebrated on October 27.

(With ANI Inputs)