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Why is Delhi So Polluted? Understanding the Causes and Solutions

Delhi, the capital of India, often ranks as one of the most polluted cities in the world. Air pollution in Delhi is a complex issue caused by various factors, many of which extend beyond the city’s geographical boundaries. Here, we explore the main causes of air pollution in Delhi and the measures being implemented to combat it.

Major Causes of Air Pollution in Delhi

Vehicular Emissions

• Delhi has a high density of vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, and commercial vehicles. These vehicles emit large quantities of pollutants like nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), and particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10).
• The rapid increase in the number of vehicles exacerbates the pollution problem, leading to higher levels of harmful emissions.

Industrial Pollution

• Industries in and around Delhi contribute significantly to air pollution. Factories and manufacturing units release pollutants, including sulfur dioxide (SO2), NOx, and PM, into the atmosphere.
• Small-scale industries, often lacking proper emission control measures, add to the pollution load.

Stubble Burning

• A major contributor to Delhi’s air pollution is the burning of agricultural residue, or stubble, in neighboring states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. Farmers burn the leftover straw after harvesting rice, releasing a significant amount of smoke and particulate matter into the air.
• The smoke from stubble burning drifts into Delhi, worsening the air quality, especially during the winter months.

Construction Dust

• Ongoing construction activities in Delhi generate a considerable amount of dust. The fine particulate matter from construction sites contributes to the overall PM2.5 and PM10 levels in the air.
• Lack of proper dust control measures during construction exacerbates the problem.

Geographical and Meteorological Factors

• Delhi’s geographical location and meteorological conditions also play a role in its air pollution problem. During winter, the temperature inversion phenomenon traps pollutants close to the ground, preventing them from dispersing.
• The entire belt from Punjab to West Bengal often acts as an inverted “bowl” that collects and traps pollutants, affecting the air quality across the region.

Measures to Combat Air Pollution

To tackle the severe air pollution in Delhi, various measures and action plans have been implemented:

Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)

• GRAP is a set of emergency measures implemented in phases based on the severity of air pollution. It includes actions like banning diesel generators, restricting vehicle use, and shutting down construction activities during high pollution periods.

Comprehensive Action Plan (CAP)

• CAP outlines long-term strategies to reduce air pollution, such as promoting public transport, enhancing green cover, and shifting industries to cleaner technologies.

41 Directions by CPCB under Air Act-1981

• The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has issued 41 directives to control air pollution, which include measures like controlling industrial emissions, reducing vehicular pollution, and managing construction dust.

Efforts by Civic Agencies and Departments

• Various departments, including the Transport Department, Urban Development Department, Traffic Police, and Pollution Control Committee of Delhi, are working together to enforce pollution control measures and promote sustainable practices.

Conclusion

Air pollution in Delhi is a multifaceted issue with contributions from vehicular emissions, industrial activities, stubble burning, and construction dust. The geographical and meteorological conditions further exacerbate the problem. However, through coordinated efforts and comprehensive action plans, significant steps are being taken to mitigate pollution levels. The implementation of GRAP, CAP, and directives by CPCB are crucial in the fight against air pollution, aiming to make Delhi's air cleaner and healthier for its residents.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1. What are the main causes of air pollution in Delhi?

• The main causes include vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, stubble burning in neighboring states, and construction dust.

Q2. How does stubble burning affect Delhi’s air quality?

• Stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh releases smoke and particulate matter, which drift into Delhi and worsen the air quality, especially during winter.

Q3. What is the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)?

• GRAP is a set of emergency measures implemented based on the severity of air pollution, including restrictions on vehicle use and construction activities.

Q4. What measures are being taken to control industrial pollution in Delhi?