25-Jan-2025, 11:03 AM
Delhi’s air quality has been a persistent concern, particularly during the winter months when pollution levels spike significantly. As of January 2024, the city experienced its most polluted month since 2016, with an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 354. This figure is alarming, especially considering that the highest recorded AQI in January 2016 was 370.
Current Air Quality Status
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported that January 2024 saw three days categorized as “severe” and 28 days marked as “very poor,” with only one day classified as “poor.” The highest AQI recorded this month reached 447 on January 14, while the lowest was 273 on January 1013. This trend indicates a troubling pattern where air quality fluctuates between “poor” and “very poor,” reflecting a broader environmental crisis exacerbated by various factors.
Contributing Factors
Several elements contribute to Delhi’s deteriorating air quality:
Meteorological Conditions: Adverse weather conditions, including dense fog, low temperatures, and calm winds, have hindered the dispersion of pollutants. These factors trap harmful particles close to the ground, leading to prolonged periods of poor air quality.
Regional Pollution Sources: Emissions from surrounding areas like Sonipat and Ghaziabad have compounded the problem. The unregulated operation of industries and coal-based power plants in these regions adds significant pollution loads to Delhi’s atmosphere.
Seasonal Variability: Typically, Delhi’s air quality is better from March to September, falling into the “satisfactory” or “moderate” categories. However, from October to February, pollution levels often escalate to “poor,” “very poor,” or even “severe” due to factors like stubble burning, vehicle emissions, and industrial discharges.
Health Implications
The health implications of such air quality levels are severe. Poor air quality is linked to respiratory diseases and has been shown to irreversibly damage the lungs of millions of children in Delhi. The World Health Organization highlights that India suffers from high death rates due to chronic respiratory diseases attributable to air pollution.
Conclusion
Efforts to mitigate air pollution in Delhi must be multifaceted. While meteorological conditions play a significant role in air quality degradation, addressing emissions from vehicles and industries is crucial for long-term improvement. As highlighted by experts, effective action is necessary not only within Delhi but also across the National Capital Region (NCR) to achieve a systematic reduction in pollution levels.
