Delhi has again been in a heavy mist of toxic smog, with air pollution levels going up to hazardous levels. Winter is approaching, and it is time for the infamous "pollution season" to hold the city hostage. For its citizens, life becomes miserable. But why does this happen every year, and what can be done to tackle this crisis?
The Alarming Numbers
According to recent data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) hit 500+ in some areas with a level deemed “severe” and hazardous to health earlier this month. The World Health Organization states that people are "exposed continuously" to such air, and one suffers from respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. The schools were compelled to close; outdoor activities were banned, and hospitals became full with patients suffering from breathing difficulties.
The Reasons for the Crisis
- Crop residue burning in Punjab and Haryana increased the smog remarkably, contributing to more than 20 percent of the pollution levels in mid-November.
- Local Factors: The thickness of fog decreases sunlight coming into the atmosphere, which in turn decreases the mixing height where pollutants dissipate, keeping the harmful particles near the ground.
- Construction Dust: Construction activities have no control measures and release fine particulate matter, also known as PM2.5 and PM10, into the air.
- Vehicular and industrial emissions: Despite all the stringent measures, pollution in the region is mainly contributed by vehicular and industrial activities.
Impact on Health and Daily Life
Severe poisoning levels were critical for respiration conditions, especially in the most vulnerable parts of society, children and the elderly. The apparent increase in asthma, bronchitis, and other cases of poisoning was visibly evident through increased admissions to hospitals. Moreover, the communication networks that support transportation were affected as flights and trains suffered from delayed departure.
Mitigatory Measures
- GRAP: Delhi implements Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan, which comprises prohibiting all unnecessary vehicles and prohibiting construction operations.
- Online Education: Schools and colleges have started taking classes online to save the students from the lethal air.
- Artificial Rain Proposal: The Government of Delhi has asked for artificial rain to wash away the pollutants.
Permanent Practices to Clear Pollution
Though emergency measures are in place, the long-term sustainable practice is the need of the hour where the pollution crises would not recur:
- Public transport: Teach people about travelling using public transport and emissions of electric vehicles.
- Harsher regulations: Stiffen the rules like stubble burning and alternative farming methods must be followed.
- Green Energy: Enhance utilization of renewable energy in place of fossil fuels in a way that their emissions can be dramatically reduced.
- Cleaner Farming: Rewards and provisions of machinery, such as "Happy Seeders," to farmers should help reduce stubble burning.
- Greening Urban Areas: Plant trees and develop green spaces in urban areas in order for them to absorb pollutants and improve air.
- Citizen Awareness: The public needs to be reminded of the role they play in curbing this pollution—now with measures like carpooling and no burning of waste products.
An Appeal to Action
The present time is a wake-up call reminding mankind of its pressing need for concerted action. Government policies, technological advancement, and individual efforts should go hand in hand in achieving sustainability within an environment that yields healthy growth for the posterity.