The situation arising out of air pollution in the City is extremely worrying…I appeal to the people to remain indoors as much as possible and to not expose themselves - especially children & elderly…- Delhi LG VK Saxena.
Table of Contents
Delhi's AQI: A Call for Urgent Action
Decoding AQI Delhi: Insights from CPCB's Air Quality Data.
Section2: Understanding the Air Quality Index (AQI).
Section 3: AQI Trends in Delhi: Historical Context and Present-Day Analysis.
Section 4: Unveiling the Causes: How AQI Affects Health in Delhi.
Section 5: Delhi's Fight Against Air Pollution: Government Initiatives for better AQI.
Section 6: Towards Cleaner Air: Concluding Thoughts and Actions for AQI Delhi.
Delhi's AQI: A Call for Urgent Action
As the winter season sets in, Delhi, the national capital territory of India, finds itself grappling with an environmental crisis that has become a recurring nightmare. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi, a city sprawling over 1,398 km² and the largest governed by a single municipal corporation in India, has reached alarming levels. The AQI, a measure of air pollution, has consistently placed Delhi among the top cities with the worst air quality in the country. This year, the situation seems to have worsened, casting a shadow over the nation's image, particularly at a time when India is making significant strides in the global geopolitical arena.
Decoding AQI Delhi: Insights from CPCB's Air Quality Data
As per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi recorded an AQI of around 405, categorizing the air quality as 'Severe'. This marks a significant deterioration from the previous day's 'Very Poor' category, with an average AQI of 468. The lack of rainfall in October and November, which traditionally helped in washing away particulate matter, has contributed to this year's worsening conditions. Additionally, the increase in farm fires in neighboring states like Punjab and Haryana has further aggravated the situation.
In an ironic twist, the masks once worn for COVID-19 protection are now being repurposed to shield residents from the toxic air. The government is considering unconventional measures such as artificial rain through cloud seeding, scheduled for 20th-21st November, in a bid to mitigate the crisis.
As Delhi confronts this environmental emergency, it's crucial to delve deeper into the causes, impacts, and potential solutions to this air quality crisis.
Section2: Understanding the Air Quality Index (AQI)
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a vital tool for summarizing air quality data. It converts complex measurements of various pollutants into a single, understandable index value, complete with a specific nomenclature and color code. This system is designed to make air quality information accessible and easy to interpret for the general public.
CPCB's Framework: Interpreting AQI
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in India defines the AQI range from 0 to 500. A score of 0 indicates 'good' air quality, while 500 represents 'severe' conditions. The AQI considers eight major pollutants: particulate matter (PM 10 and PM 2.5), carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), ammonia (NH3), and lead (Pb). The index is categorized into six levels: Good, Satisfactory, Moderately Polluted, Poor, Very Poor, and Severe. This categorization was developed in collaboration with IIT-Kanpur and air-quality experts.
It's essential to stay updated with the current AQI, especially in high pollution areas, as it can change frequently.
Section 3: AQI Trends in Delhi: Historical Context and Present-Day Analysis
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi, as monitored by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), has shown significant fluctuations over the years:
2015: The AQI was categorized as 'Good to Moderate'. This period reflected relatively better air quality conditions in the city.
Subsequent Years: The AQI often escalated to 'Severe' levels, especially during winters. Factors like stubble burning and Diwali fireworks have been major contributors to this surge in pollution.
Efforts to Combat Pollution: Measures like the odd-even vehicle rule and firecracker restrictions were implemented, aiming to curb air pollution.
Continued Concerns: Despite these efforts, severe AQI levels persisted, with December 2021 still recording 'Severe' AQI.
Recent Improvements: Excluding the Covid-affected year of 2020, 2021 marked a significant improvement with Delhi experiencing 'Good to Moderate' AQI for 200 days.
*Note: AQI trends are subject to change, and it's advisable to stay updated with current levels, especially in high pollution areas.
India's AQI Landscape: Top 10 Most Polluted Cities in India
The CPCB's latest data reveals the top 10 most polluted cities in India, with their AQI levels as of 4:00 pm on November 16, 2023. Among these, one cities are in the near the 'Severe' AQI category, posing health risks even to healthy individuals, while the remaining nine cities are in the 'Very Poor' category, indicating potential respiratory issues upon prolonged exposure.
Here's how some other major polluted cities in India compared:
Greater Noida: 348
Faridabad: 390
Gurugram: 358
Manesar: 362
Dharuhera: 320
Fatehabad: 368
Ghaziabad: 335
Kota: 336
Sonipat: 369
Noida: 334
*Note: The data are from CPCB bulleting latest on 16th Nov’23 @4:00 PM IST. These rankings are based on the real-time Air Quality Index (AQI) values as of the date and time mentioned. It is important to understand that the AQI can fluctuate throughout the day due to variations in weather conditions and emission levels.
Section 4: Unveiling the Causes: How AQI Affects Health in Delhi
This pollution level is here to stay for the next two to three weeks, aggravated by stubble burning, slow wind speed, and cooling temperatures.- Ashwani Kumar, (Chairman of the Delhi Pollution Control Committee)
Delhi's air quality crisis stems from a combination of factors, each contributing to the deteriorating AQI levels:
Burning of Fossil Fuels: The incomplete combustion of coal, oil, and gasoline for energy and transportation is a primary source of air pollution.
Industrial Emission: Industries using coal and wood emit particulate matter, NO2, SO2, and CO, significantly impacting air quality.
Automobiles: Vehicle emissions, including smoke, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxide, are major contributors to air pollution.
Agricultural Activities: Stubble burning accounts for 17% of air pollution.
Indoor Air Pollution: Resulting from the combustion of fuels for cooking, lighting, and heating.
Waste Burning: Open burning of garbage.
Construction Sites: These are significant sources of particulate matter and other pollutants.
Health Under Siege: The Toll of Delhi's AQI on Well-being
The health effects of air pollution in Delhi are alarming:
Short-term Exposure: Leads to respiratory infections, reduced lung function, asthma aggravation, and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat.
Long-term Exposure: Causes heart disease, stroke, lung cancer, COPD, respiratory infections, and damage to vital organs.
The WHO estimates that 7 million people die annually from exposure to fine particles in polluted air.
Expert Insights on Delhi's AQI Challenges
Prabhat Gangwar, a veterinarian, warns, "Breathing trouble can develop into pneumonia or other ailments in younger animals. Avoid taking pets out on morning walks till the air improves."
Ashwani Kumar, chairman of the Delhi Pollution Control Committee, notes, "This pollution level is here to stay for the next two to three weeks, aggravated by stubble burning, slow wind speed, and cooling temperatures."
Section 5: Delhi's Fight Against Air Pollution: Government Initiatives for better AQI
The Delhi government, in collaboration with other authorities, has taken significant steps to address the city's air pollution crisis:
Green War Room: A dedicated team monitors actions against pollution by 20 government agencies.
Anti-Dust Campaign: Regular inspections at construction sites, with 586 teams ensuring compliance.
Green Delhi App: A platform for residents to register complaints, enabling prompt action.
Bio-Decomposer: Free spraying of PUSA bio-decomposer in farmlands to reduce pollution from stubble burning.
Water Sprinklers and Anti-Smog Guns: Deployment of water sprinklers and anti-smog guns at key locations to settle dust and reduce smog.
Industry Monitoring: 233 teams oversee industrial sites to ensure adherence to pollution norms.
Mandatory PUC Certificates: Pollution Under Control Certificates required at filling stations.
Work from Home Policy: Encouraging remote work for government staff and advising private offices to follow suit.
Truck Ban and Vehicle Restrictions: Banning non-essential trucks and implementing the odd-even vehicle system.
India's Blueprint: National Strategies to Improve AQI in Delhi
CNG-based Public Transport: Promoting CNG over petrol and diesel to reduce emissions.
Ban on Plastic Burning: Preventing the burning of plastic and household waste.
Indoor Air Quality Management: Encouraging the use of houseplants and air purifiers.
Fuel and Vehicle Quality Improvement: Upgrading fuel and vehicle standards to lower emissions.
Odd-Even Measures: Restricting vehicle movement based on number plates to reduce congestion and pollution.
Increased Reduction Targets: Aiming for a more ambitious reduction in air pollution levels.
Investment in Clean Technology: Collaborations between policymakers and businesses to adopt clean technologies.
These comprehensive measures, if effectively implemented, hold the potential to significantly mitigate air pollution in Delhi and across India.
Section 6: Towards Cleaner Air: Concluding Thoughts and Actions for AQI Delhi
Delhi's Air Quality: Historically fluctuating, with recent improvements but still facing severe pollution levels during specific periods.
Top Polluted Cities: India's top 10 most polluted cities, including Gurugram and Greater Noida, show alarming AQI levels, indicating severe health risks.
Primary Pollution Sources: Include fossil fuel burning, industrial emissions, vehicle pollution, agricultural activities, indoor pollution, and waste burning.
Health Impacts: Short-term exposure leads to respiratory issues, while long-term exposure can cause heart disease, lung cancer, and other serious ailments.
Government Initiatives: Delhi government's comprehensive steps like the Green War Room, anti-dust campaigns, and bio-decomposers.
National Measures: Include promoting CNG-based transport, banning plastic burning, and improving fuel and vehicle quality.
Public Participation: Essential in reporting pollution sources and adhering to government guidelines.
Continued Efforts Needed: Both at the governmental and individual levels to effectively combat air pollution.
CPCB AQI Details: The Indian AQI, as per CPCB, ranges from 0-500, with 0 being good and 500 severe. It considers eight major pollutants, including PM 10, PM 2.5, CO, O3, NO2, SO2, NH3, and Pb. The AQI categories are Good, Satisfactory, Moderately Polluted, Poor, Very Poor, and Severe, developed by CPCB with IIT-Kanpur and experts.
Personal Measures: Everyday Actions to Mitigate AQI Impact in Delhi
Wear Masks Outdoors: Protect yourself from air pollutants by wearing masks when outside.
Use Air Purifiers Indoors: Install air purifiers at home to improve indoor air quality.
Minimize Exposure During High AQI Periods: Avoid spending unnecessary time outdoors when AQI levels are high.
Use Public Transport: Opt for public transportation to reduce vehicular emissions.
Carpooling: Share rides with others to decrease the number of vehicles on the road.
Reduce Waste: Minimize waste production to lower pollution from waste management processes.
Support Green Initiatives: Actively support and participate in eco-friendly projects and policies.
Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated on air quality levels and health advisories.
Participate in Community Efforts: Engage in community actions aimed at improving air quality.
Reference List
National Air Quality Index (AQI) launched by the Environment Minister AQI-PBI
Why Delhi is facing one of the worst AQI seasons in November 2023
New Delhi air pollution: Choking smog shutters schools and shrouds
Delhi AQI - Air Quality Index News, Delhi Air Pollution Updates
Delhi-NCR Air Pollution: 'Diya Jalao, Patakhe Nahi' Campaign
Real-Time Air Pollution | Delhi - Live - AQI Air Quality Index
Delhi AQI - Air Quality Index Live Updates, Delhi NCR Air Pollution
Rains ease pollution levels in Delhi, Mumbai; check AQI levels here
What is Air Quality Index (AQI) & How Is It Calculated? - Prana Air
True picture of the capital..