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CPCB Explains Why Official AQI is Capped at 500 Despite Higher Readings from Private Apps
Sentiment: NeutralHigh Priority
What Happened?
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) clarified its air quality monitoring methods, stating that the official Air Quality Index (AQI) is capped at 500. This comes as private apps reported levels as high as 1,800 in Delhi after Diwali.
Key points
- CPCB's AQI is capped at 500 to align with international practices.
- Readings above 500 do not change health advisories, as they fall under the 'Severe' category.
- The official AQI uses 24-hour rolling averages, while private apps often show hourly fluctuations.
- CPCB stated that private apps may report higher readings during brief pollution spikes.
- The NAQI has six categories: 'Good', 'Satisfactory', 'Moderately Polluted', 'Poor', 'Very Poor', and 'Severe'.
- Social media posts showed private apps reporting AQI levels between 1,500 and 1,800 during Diwali.
Key insights
- The capping of AQI at 500 may lead to confusion among the public regarding actual air quality levels.
- Private apps could influence public perception of air quality, especially during pollution spikes.
- CPCB's methodology emphasizes long-term exposure, which is crucial for public health advisories.
Why it matters
Understanding the AQI's capping helps the public interpret air quality data accurately.
Entities
CPCB· OrganizationDelhi· CityDiwali· Event
Source
Times of India
