Delhi’s AQI Stays in ‘Severe’ Category as IMD Predicts Rain

Delhi continues to grapple with hazardous air quality, as the Air Quality Index (AQI) remains in the “severe” category, surpassing 400 in several locations, including Anand Vihar and Rohini. Despite recent light rainfall in the region, the pollution levels show little sign of abating, posing serious health risks for residents, especially vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions. The persistent air pollution has once again underscored the urgent need for sustainable and long-term solutions to combat the capital’s deteriorating environmental health.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has classified the city’s air as “severe,” meaning prolonged exposure can cause severe health impacts, including respiratory distress and cardiovascular complications. Although the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted light rain and fog, issuing a yellow alert, experts believe this may provide only temporary relief. Rainfall can wash away particulate matter to some extent, but it does not address the root causes of pollution, such as vehicular emissions, industrial discharges, construction dust, and the seasonal burning of crop stubble in neighboring states.

Authorities have invoked Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), an emergency framework aimed at curbing pollution during severe conditions. Under GRAP, restrictions include halting construction and demolition activities, banning diesel vehicles that are older than ten years, and implementing stricter checks on industrial emissions. Additionally, schools have been advised to suspend outdoor activities, and offices have been encouraged to allow work-from-home options where possible.

However, many environmental experts argue that these measures are reactive rather than preventive. While GRAP may help reduce emissions temporarily, it fails to tackle the systemic issues causing chronic pollution in Delhi. Long-term strategies are needed, such as transitioning to cleaner energy sources, enhancing public transport infrastructure, and promoting the adoption of electric vehicles. Strengthening the enforcement of pollution control norms in industries and addressing the annual stubble-burning crisis in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh are also critical steps.

The Supreme Court has intervened to direct states in the National Capital Region (NCR) to comply strictly with anti-pollution measures. This includes better coordination between state governments to address cross-border pollution issues, such as stubble burning and industrial emissions. Despite these judicial directives, challenges remain in implementation due to a lack of political will and administrative inefficiency.

The health implications of Delhi’s air pollution are alarming. Studies have linked prolonged exposure to severe air pollution with chronic diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, lung cancer, and cardiovascular disorders. For children, the impact is particularly severe, with research suggesting that polluted air can hinder lung development and increase susceptibility to respiratory infections. For the elderly, it exacerbates existing health conditions, leading to increased hospital admissions and mortality rates.

Visibility in the city has also taken a hit due to a combination of smog and fog, leading to disruptions in transportation. Flight delays and cancellations, reduced train speeds, and dangerous driving conditions on highways are becoming routine during the winter months in Delhi, further highlighting the socio-economic impact of the pollution crisis.

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Residents are being urged to take precautions to safeguard their health. Experts recommend using N95 masks when venturing outdoors, utilizing air purifiers indoors, and minimizing outdoor activities, especially during peak pollution hours early in the morning and late at night. Doctors also advise maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants to help combat the adverse effects of pollution on the body.

The situation in Delhi reflects a broader environmental crisis in India, where urbanization, rapid industrial growth, and population pressures are straining natural resources and degrading air quality. Cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru are also experiencing rising pollution levels, albeit to a lesser extent than Delhi. This highlights the need for a nationwide approach to environmental sustainability, which includes stricter implementation of pollution control laws, public awareness campaigns, and incentives for adopting green technologies.

In conclusion, while immediate measures like GRAP may provide temporary relief, Delhi needs to prioritize long-term, sustainable policies to combat its pollution crisis effectively. Collaborative efforts between the government, judiciary, and citizens are essential to safeguard public health and ensure a cleaner future for the city. With the right policies and collective action, Delhi can overcome its air quality challenges and become a model for other cities facing similar environmental issues.