Mumbai Fog, Delhi Smog: AQI Contrast & GRAP Stage-IV Invoked

Dense fog covered parts of Mumbai, though the city's air quality remained in the 'satisfactory' category. In stark contrast, Delhi continued to grapple with a severe air pollution crisis, with AQI levels recorded in the 'severe' category. In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management reinvoked Stage-IV measures of the Graded Response Action Plan across the NCR. Authorities have urged citizens to limit outdoor activities and follow health advisories due to the hazardous conditions.

Key Points: Mumbai Fog vs Delhi Severe Smog: AQI & GRAP Stage-IV

  • Mumbai fog with satisfactory AQI
  • Delhi's severe air pollution crisis
  • GRAP Stage-IV measures invoked
  • Health risks for vulnerable groups
  • Persistent cold wave and dense fog
3 min read

Dense fog covers parts of Mumbai, AQI remains 'satisfactory'

Mumbai sees dense fog with 'satisfactory' AQI (88), while Delhi battles 'severe' pollution (AQI 439), triggering GRAP Stage-IV curbs. Latest updates.

"prevent further deterioration of air quality in the region - CAQM order"

Mumbai, January 18

Early morning commuters in Mumbai faced low visibility on Sunday as dense fog was witnessed along the Eastern Freeway, causing minor disruptions in travel.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a minimum temperature of 18.0 degrees Celsius for the area.

According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Mumbai stood at 88, placing it in the 'satisfactory' category, indicating that the air is acceptable and poses little or no health risk to the general population.

Meanwhile, a thin layer of fog also enveloped parts of Assam's Kamrup Metropolitan district, reducing visibility in several areas.

Furthermore, Delhi continued to grapple with a severe air pollution crisis, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 439 at 7 am on Sunday, according to CPCB data.

The situation worsened overnight, with the AQI recorded at 432 at 10 pm on Saturday, placing it in the 'severe' category, before deteriorating further by early Sunday morning. The persistent high pollution levels have raised serious health concerns, particularly for children, the elderly and people suffering from respiratory and cardiovascular ailments.

Furthermore, visibility across the city remained poor as cold wave conditions continued and dense fog covered large parts of Delhi. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that dense fog persisted in the morning hours, with moderate fog observed at several locations and dense fog at isolated spots. Minimum temperatures on Sunday hovered between 5 and 7 degrees Celsius, remaining below normal by 1.6 to 3 degrees Celsius.

In response to the deteriorating air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Saturday reinvoked Stage-IV measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR).

"Keeping in view the prevailing trend of air quality and relevant factors and in an effort to prevent further deterioration of air quality in the region, the CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP unanimously decides to invoke all actions as envisaged under Stage-IV of the extant GRAP - 'Severe+' Air Quality (DELHI AQI > 450), with immediate effect, in the entire NCR, as a proactive measure. This is in addition to the actions under Stages I, II & III of the extant GRAP already in force in NCR," the order from the CAQM read.

The order further added, "NCR Pollution Control Boards and other agencies concerned have been asked to escalate the preventive measures to prevent further deterioration of air quality in the region."

With severe pollution, a cold wave, and dense fog persisting, authorities have urged citizens to limit outdoor activities, follow health advisories, and take precautions against hazardous air quality.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
The contrast is shocking. Delhi at 439 (severe) and Mumbai at 88 (satisfactory). While GRAP Stage-IV is necessary, it feels like a band-aid solution every winter. We need year-round, systemic changes in transportation and industry, not just emergency measures when the air becomes unbreathable.
A
Aman W
Fog in Mumbai and Assam, severe pollution in Delhi... this is our new normal every winter. The authorities' advice to "limit outdoor activities" is not practical for daily wage workers and millions who have to commute. Where are the long-term solutions?
S
Sarah B
Living in Delhi, this article is my daily reality. The fog combined with the pollution creates a smog that burns your eyes and throat. We've bought three air purifiers for our home, but what about the children going to school? The AQI number isn't just data, it's a health emergency.
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Vikram M
Mumbai's sea breeze is a saviour. But we cannot be complacent. The construction and traffic are increasing every day. We must learn from Delhi's crisis and enforce stricter norms now before our 'satisfactory' air also becomes 'severe'. Jai Hind.
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Kavya N
The mention of Assam's fog is important. The entire northern and eastern belt suffers in winter. It's not just a Delhi problem. Hope the CAQM's measures are effective, but public cooperation is equally crucial. Can we all commit to using public transport more? 🚆

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