New Delhi: Despite the beginning of October in the capital Delhi, there seems to be no respite from the heat. Strong sunlight and rising temperatures have increased the problems of the people. On Saturday, the maximum temperature of Delhi was recorded about 3 degrees above normal. According to the estimates of the Meteorological Department, there may be a slight drop in the temperature in the coming four days, which is expected to bring some relief in the weather.
Why is the scorching heat troubling us even in October?
On Saturday morning, the sky remained clear and there was bright sunshine in most areas of Delhi. As the day progressed, the heat of the sun also increased. At noon people felt like summer instead of October.
The maximum temperature at Delhi’s Standard Meteorological Observatory Safdarjung was recorded at 37.1 degrees Celsius. This is about 2.9 degrees more than the normal temperature. It is not considered normal for the temperature to reach 37 degrees or above in the month of October. Last year in October, the temperature in Safdarjung did not go above 37 degrees Celsius or more on a single day.
Does the temperature remain hot even at night?
Day as well as night temperatures were recorded warmer than normal. The minimum temperature in Safdarjung was 23.2 degrees Celsius, which is about 0.9 degrees above normal. However, the temperature is expected to drop slightly in the next few days.
Due to change in weather, people may get relative relief in the morning and evening in the coming days. There is a possibility of a gradual decrease in day temperature also.
Is Delhi’s air also getting worse?
With the heat, concern about the air quality of Delhi has also started increasing. According to Central Pollution Control Board data, Delhi’s average air quality index or AQI was recorded at 171 on Saturday. The air at this level is kept in the moderate category.
However, the situation was worse in some areas of the city. On Friday, AQI had crossed 200 in six areas of Delhi, which falls in the poor category. With the season moving towards winter, there is a possibility of the pollution level increasing further.
How much fine will be imposed on polluters?
Delhi Municipal Corporation has made preparations to intensify action to prevent pollution in winter. Action will be taken against people and institutions violating the rules under GRAP, corporation rules and the guidelines of the National Green Tribunal i.e. NGT.
Depending on the seriousness of the violation, a fine ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 50,000 can be imposed. The corporation has also planned to keep special vigil on the major areas causing pollution.
Will there be special monitoring on Delhi’s pollution hotspots?
To control pollution, the Municipal Corporation has formed more than 200 teams. These teams will inspect different zones of Delhi and, if necessary, will take action in collaboration with other government departments and agencies.
The corporation has identified 13 pollution hotspots in Delhi. Special surveillance will be maintained in these areas. According to officials, strict action will continue against those who violate pollution control rules during winter.
At present, Delhiites are expected to get relief from slight drop in temperature in the next few days, but the increasing level of pollution can become a big challenge in the coming days.
