For the first time the concentration of pollutant in Delhi air Particulate Matter (PM) 10 recorded under moderate category whereas PM 2.5 values touched 'poor" category on Air quality Index (AQI).
Incidentally, the overall AQI was recorded at 258 on the pollution index of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), and the stubble fire count contribution in pollution is barely two per cent on SAFAR's trend.
The PM2.5 — particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres — level was recorded at 122, while the PM10 level was recorded at 228, according to Central Pollution Control Board data.
Delhi's air quality showed significant improvement on Wednesday and Thursday after rain washed away the pollutants but the rainfall also led to an increase in air capacity to hold pollutants, SAFAR said. "Although wind speed is better (higher) but holding capacity (of air) is also high due to moisture, which is unfavourable," the SAFAR said in a report.
Fire counts from stubble burning increased in past 24 hours, which may contribute 8-10 per cent to Delhi pollution, the report said. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'. According to CPCB data, three areas in Delhi recorded 'very poor' air quality and 31 recorded 'poor' air quality.
