Indian Cities hitting bad with poor Air Quality: Need More Practical Approach to Delhi’s Air Quality Issue

India, one of the fastest developing countries in the world, is facing alarming challenges such as pollution and population. Air pollution stands out as a critical concern, especially in metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, which consistently rank among the most polluted cities in the world.

Understanding the Air Pollution Crisis in Delhi.

Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) crossed the 500 mark and is now in the “Severe Plus Category” as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) bulletin. Stubble (parali) burning(method of removing paddy crop residues) contributed to 18 % of net pollution and the city’s local transport contributed to another 18% of pollution in Delhi.

Delhi’s air pollution is a complex issue arising from various factors:

Vehicular Emissions: Delhi has over 10 million registered vehicles, and emissions from cars, trucks, and motorcycles contribute significantly to the city’s deteriorating air quality. 

Crop Residue Burning: The seasonal practice of burning agricultural residue in neighboring states like Haryana adds a layer of smog to Delhi’s atmosphere. This problem increased especially during winter.

Geographic and Climatic Factors: Delhi’s landlocked location and lack of natural ventilation increase the problem during winter when temperature change traps pollutants close to the ground.

Health Impacts of Poor Air Quality

The health effects of Delhi’s air pollution are severe and far-reaching. Short-term exposure to high air pollution can lead to immediate symptoms like coughing, throat irritation, and shortness of breath. In contrast, long-term exposure causes chronic respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, and even cancer. Poor air quality affects elderly people, children, and patients with pre-existing health conditions.

Short-Term Impacts

Poor air quality Increased incidences of respiratory infections, eye irritation, and skin allergies.It also reduces lung function.

Long-Term Impacts

• Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Prolonged exposure to air pollutants leads to diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

• Cardiovascular Problems: Pollutants like PM2.5 and CO increase the risk of heart attacks.

• Developmental Issues in Children: Exposure to pollutants can impair cognitive development 

• Reduced Life Expectancy: Studies estimate that living in a polluting environment could reduce life expectancy by several years 

To contain pollution in Delhi, the Supreme Court enforced GRAP-IV. Its  Fourth stage of anti-pollution measures is to control air pollution in Delhi and NCR regions.
Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) bans entry of trucks and commercial vehicles carrying non-essential goods. Only essential goods carriers are now permitted in the Delhi region. Most private firms have been asked to implement work from home if possible. Also, people going outside have been advised to use anti-pollution masks for their safety.

The air pollution crisis in metros has become a wake-up call for every Indian. It is time to prioritize environmental sustainability alongside economic development.  Pollution control not in just Delhi but also in other cities affects millions of lives. Government and citizens need to take coordinated action to control pollution. Together we can pave the way for a cleaner and healthier India.