Pollution down, but air quality still ‘poor’ in Noida

Pollution level dropped on Sunday but air quality remained in the ‘very poor’ category. The level of particulate matter (PM) 10 was recorded at 252 micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m3) as against the permissible limit of 100µg/m3, according to data from the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR). Despite this putting the air quality in the ‘poor’ category, it was the lowest that PM10 has fallen to since Diwali night on October 30.

Various areas of Delhi-NCR, including the twin cities of Noida and Greater Noida, have been suffering from smog and high air pollution since Diwali. However, the level of PM2.5 in Noida is still in the ‘very poor’ category at 343µg/m3, as against the permissible limit of 60 µg/m3.

“Strict action will be taken against those found causing pollution. We will hold a review meeting soon to take further steps to bring down the pollution level,” said NP Singh, district magistrate, Gautam Budh Nagar.

Post Diwali, PM 10 and 2.5 levels had crossed 900 µg/m3 and above. As a result, last Monday the DM had ordered a halt on all construction work across Noida and Greater Noida to prevent more dust pollutants from releasing into the air.

The DM, however, said that halting construction is a short-term pollution control measure and urged residents to do their bit to cut down pollution.

“Awareness about pollution is more important than short-term bans. Residents should start planting saplings and avoid carbon emissions as far as they can,” said Singh.

In a bid to lessen the impact of the rising air pollution on their health, residents said they have discontinued their morning walks and prefer to exercise inside gyms and health clubs.

“People prefer to work out inside. Regular joggers are now waiting at the treadmills and spinning machines at the gym for workouts,” said Siddharth, a gym owner at Crossings Republik.

According to SAFAR, PM10 will stay at 273 µg/m3 (poor category) while PM 2.5 is likely to remain around 352 µg/m3 (very poor category) on Monday.