Delhi is grappling with “very poor” air quality, as evidenced by the alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) readings reported across various monitoring stations on 22 November 2024. The AQI, a crucial indicator of air pollution levels, registered concerning numbers in multiple locations, prompting a slew of government initiatives and highlighting the urgent need for collaborative action.
The city’s overall AQI stood at 371, firmly within the ‘very poor’ category. Certain areas experienced even more severe conditions, with Anand Vihar reporting an AQI of 411, classified as ‘severe’, signifying significant health risks for residents. Other locations like RK Puram and Chandni Chowk also recorded ‘very poor’ AQI values of 374 and 360, respectively.
This alarming situation is attributed to a combination of factors, including stubble burning in neighbouring states and local emissions. On Monday, Punjab, a key contributor to regional air pollution, reported 1,251 stubble-burning incidents—the highest single-day tally of the season.The practice of burning crop residue after harvest releases a significant amount of smoke and pollutants into the air, directly impacting Delhi’s air quality.
Acknowledging the severity of the situation, the government has implemented various measures to mitigate the pollution crisis. These include restrictions on truck entry into the city, barring those carrying essential commodities or using cleaner fuels. Construction activities have been halted, including projects related to highways, telecommunications, and power transmission. Educational institutions, particularly schools, have shifted to online learning to minimise exposure for students.
Government offices have been directed to operate with 50% staff strength, encouraging work-from-home arrangements to reduce vehicular emissions. The Union personnel ministry has advised employees to opt for carpooling or utilise public transportation to further curtail vehicular pollution. Private organisations have also been urged to adopt similar work-from-home policies.
Recognising the limitations of short-term measures, the focus has shifted towards addressing the root causes of Delhi’s persistent air pollution. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), responsible for monitoring and controlling air pollution in the region, is actively reviewing sector-specific actions taken by concerned state governments, including Delhi, Haryana, and Punjab. The CAQM has issued directives to address discrepancies in the enforcement of Environmental Compensation (EC), urging authorities to bridge the gap between imposed fines and the actual amount collected.
Furthermore, the CAQM has mandated a faster response to fire incidents, particularly in Punjab, where the inspection protocol has been revised to ensure verification within 24 hours, down from 48 hours. This measure aims to expedite investigations and address stubble burning incidents promptly.
Complementing these broader initiatives, local bodies are actively participating in pollution mitigation efforts. The New Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) launched a ‘night cleaning drive’ to improve sanitation and reduce dust levels. Kuljeet Singh Chahal, Vice Chairman of NDMC, highlighted the campaign’s objective of creating a “garbage-free NDMC.”
While challenges persist, a recent study by Climate Trends indicates a slight improvement in Delhi-NCR’s air quality. Although pollution levels remain classified as ‘very poor’, this improvement suggests that the implemented measures are having a positive impact. However, experts caution against complacency, emphasizing that similar episodes of severe pollution are typical during winter, requiring sustained vigilance and continuous efforts.
Tackling Delhi’s air pollution requires a holistic and collaborative effort.Collective action involving state governments, local bodies, and citizens is paramount to effectively combat this persistent issue and ensure a healthier environment for all.
