Pollution levels plummet as diesel buses go off roads
There is a dramatic decline in
pollution levels on the fifth day of the bus strike.
According to the Central Pollution
Control Board (CPCB), the respirable suspended particulate matter (RSPM) level nosedived
from 189 microgramme per cum yesterday to 148 microgramme per cum today.
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The landmark Court ruling came on April 5,
2002. The fall out: around 6000 diesel buses were off the road the next day. The RSPM,
however, remained high between April 5 and 7 because of dust storms.
But on April 8, when offices reopened and more private vehicles were expected to be on the
roads, the RSPM level dropped significantly to 189 microgramme per cubic metre. The levels
have further fallen today to 148 microgramme per cubic metre. This is, however, still
above norm of 100 microgramme per cubic metre daily average norm.
Pollution levels monitored by CPCB at the ITO crossing in Delhi.
24 hour average (6am to 6am) in microgramme per cubic metre.
| Date |
RSPM |
NO2 |
SO2 |
| 2.4.2002-3.4.2002 |
262 |
64 |
8 |
| 3.4.2002-4.4.2002 |
313 |
60 |
8 |
| 4.4.2002-5.4.2002 |
269 |
71 |
9 |
| 5.4.2002-6.4.2002 |
375 (dust storm) |
49 |
6 |
| 6.4.2002-7.4.2002 |
368 (dust storm) |
50 |
5 |
| 7.4.2002-8.4.2002 |
311 (dust storm) |
50 |
4 |
| 8.4.2002-9.4.2002 |
189 |
46 |
4 |
| 9.4.2002-10.4.2002 |
148 |
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