Why Does Delhi’s AQI Differ Across Apps? CPCB Responds To Data Gaps, 500 Cap Concerns

People cover their faces amid a thick layer of smog as air quality deteriorates in New Delhi | File Image

The difference in Air Quality Index (AQI) values shown by private apps and its government platform is due to differences in the measurement of pollutant concentration and methodology, and not under-reporting, said the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) on Tuesday.

The CPCB's statement comes amid concerns over the quality of air in the national capital. The concerns included capping of AQI at 500, data gaps at some monitoring stations in Delhi and differences with AQI values shown by other platforms.

"It is generally perceived that private apps show higher AQI. This may hold during short peaks, when hourly values rise sharply. However, when concentrations fall, such apps show lower AQI than the NAQI (National Air Quality Index), since NAQI continues to reflect the exposure of the preceding 24 hours," said the CPCB.

"The NAQI provides a consistent and reliable indication of the likely health impacts of sustained exposure to pollutants, which is the scientifically relevant measure for public health advisories," the CPCB said.

NAQI was introduced in 2015. It is a tool for effective communication of air quality status to…

Original source: https://www.timesnownews.com/delhi