(General Studies III – Environment section – Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment.)
- Delhi consistently ranks among the most polluted cities globally. There is an estimated loss of 9.5 years in life expectancy due to prolonged exposure to air pollution, according to studies by the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC).
- The air quality index (AQI) in Delhi often crosses 300, reaching “very poor” or “severe” categories, which poses immediate health risks and long-term implications for respiratory and cardiovascular health.
Government Measures:
- Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP): Implemented since 2017, GRAP prescribes specific actions, such as halting construction activities and restricting vehicle movement, based on AQI levels.
- Promotion of Cleaner Fuels: The switch to BS-VI fuel standards and the promotion of electric vehicles (EVs) aim to curb vehicular emissions.
- Incentives for Crop Management: Initiatives to provide subsidies for crop residue management machinery help reduce reliance on stubble burning.
- Odd-Even Scheme for Vehicles: The temporary odd-even road rationing scheme is enforced when pollution levels peak, aimed at reducing vehicular emissions.
| Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) Mandate: Established by the CAQM Act, 2021, to manage air quality in Delhi-NCR and surrounding states through coordination, research, and policy action. Key Functions: Restrict activities affecting air quality Conduct research and set guidelines for pollution control Issue binding directives for inspections and regulatory actions Accountability: Reports directly to Parliament. Composition: Chairperson: Senior government official (3-year term or until age 70) Members: Ex-officio members from Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and UP Technical experts from CPCB, ISRO, NITI Aayog, and three NGO representatives CAQM’s mandate is crucial for coordinated pollution control efforts in Delhi-NCR. |
Way Forward:
- Airshed Management: Coordinated action involving neighboring states to address transboundary pollution.
- Investment in Green Infrastructure: Expanding urban green spaces and promoting vertical gardens to absorb pollutants.
- Advanced Monitoring and Enforcement: Utilizing satellite data and IoT-based air quality monitoring for real-time data and stricter enforcement of industrial and vehicular norms.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public on reducing emissions and adopting practices like carpooling can aid in long-term behavior change.
Delhi’s air quality crisis demands collective, sustained actions that include regulatory policies, technological innovation, and public participation. By addressing pollution sources within and outside Delhi and implementing a coordinated response across states, there is potential to safeguard the health of millions and improve quality of life.
