Delhi: AQI falls back to 'very poor' category despite rainfall

The Air Quality in Delhi has again plunged in the 'very poor' category, despite receiving rainfall in the national capital. According to reports, the spike in air pollution is primarily due to insufficient rainfall and low wind speed. The Center-run SAFAR has advised people to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion. "Take more breaks and do less intense activities. Asthmatics, keep medicine ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. Heart patients, see doctor, if get palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue," it said in an advisory.

Delhi's air quality worsens again

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the Air Quality Index (AQI) went over 300 in the national capital. An AQI between 0-50 is considered 'good', 51-100 'satisfactory', 101-200 'moderate', 201-300 'poor', 301-400 'very poor' and 401-500 'severe'. Above 500 falls in the 'severe-plus emergency' category.

Read: Arvind Kejriwal, these AQI stats bust your pollution-free Delhi claim

Residents' comment

Residents of Delhi have been complaining about the poor air quality in the national capital as it has been affecting their health. According to the residents, the pollution has increased in the last 10 days. They stated that they feel suffocated while walking and also feel itchiness in the throat. Another resident said, "I feel breathless at times during my morning walk. Though in the past 2-3 days due to Odd-Even pollution level has decreased, but it has spiked again in the region."

Read: Delhi citizens living in unauthoritised colonies thank PM Modi

Odd-Even scheme kicks in

The Odd-Even scheme of the Delhi government as a measure to curb air pollution began at 8 am on Monday. The government on Sunday decided to exempt electric vehicles from the scheme. Under this measure, only non-transport four-wheeled vehicles that have registration numbers ending with an even digit (4, 6, 8, 12 and 14) will ply on the roads. Similarly, vehicles with registration numbers ending with an even digit (0, 2, 4, 6, 8) will not be allowed on the roads on November 5, 7, 9, 11, 13 and 15. According to reports, the fine for violating the scheme is Rs 4,000. The scheme will conclude on November 15. 

Read: Delhi air quality improves to 'poor' category; schools reopen

Read: Indian cities with severe Air Quality Index: Delhi, Ghaziabad updates

(WITH ANI INPUTS)