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Missing Data Could Have Increased Diwali Pollution Levels by 49%
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What Happened?
An analysis by CREA indicates that missing PM2.5 data could have raised Delhi's average pollution level by 49% during Diwali. The city's PM2.5 level could have surged from 269 to 400 g/m³.
Key points
- Missing PM2.5 data could have raised average pollution levels by 49%.
- The average PM2.5 level could have increased from 269 to 400 g/m³.
- CPCB's analysers could not display readings beyond 1,000 g/m³ on Diwali night.
- Delhi's AQI could have risen from 344 to near severe if 400 g/m³ was considered.
- At least 11 monitoring locations recorded PM2.5 levels above 2,000 g/m³.
- CREA's analysis found 18% of expected station-hour observations were missing.
Key insights
- The missing data highlights potential gaps in air quality monitoring.
- Increased pollution levels could lead to health advisories for residents.
- The analysis underscores the need for reliable data during critical pollution events.
Why it matters
Understanding pollution levels is crucial for public health and environmental policy.
Source
Times of India
