At the worst level of this season is the atmosphere pollution in its capital of IndiaNew Delhi, where authorities have suspended schools, halted construction work and banned entry into the city for trucks not connected to essential services.
In the city of 33 million people, toxic smog is becoming increasingly dangerous, according to SAFAR, the country’s environmental agency, which measures tiny particles in the air that can get deep into the lungs, and has covered everything: from ancient monuments to skyscrapers. Visibility is so poor that airlines have warned of delays.
🚨🇮🇳New Delhi of India Suffocates Under Toxic Smog!! #pollutioncontrol
Air pollution exceeds WHO’s safe limit by 60 times.
PM2.5 levels reach 806 micrograms per cubic meter.
Stubble burning, factories, and vehicles blamed.
Government measures criticized as ineffective.Health… pic.twitter.com/jsN4XAYGZF
— Weather monitor (@Weathermonitors) November 18, 2024
In several parts of the city, pollution levels are at least 50 times higher than the recommended safe limit of the World Health Organization, and according to forecasts, this situation will continue throughout the current week.
Air pollution in northern India increases every year, especially in winter, as farmers burn crop residues in agricultural areas. As the burning coincides with cooler temperatures in the atmosphere, the smoke is trapped low and then blown into cities, where emissions from cars, coal burning and factories add to the pollution.
Stage 4
As of Monday, the authorities are implementing the level 4 action plan, based on the severity of air pollution, imposing stricter restrictions than those already in place in the previous days.
People jogging at Sanjay Van during cold morning, amid hazy weather conditions in NEW Delhi on wednesday. @santwana99 @NewIndianXpress #delhismog #Pollution pic.twitter.com/ekGfDXJDTI
— Shekhar Yadav (@Shekharyadav02) November 13, 2024
All lessons in schools, except for the last two classes of high school, will be done electronically. In the past, diesel vehicles have been banned within the city. Authorities also urged children, the elderly and citizens with chronic illnesses or respiratory problems to avoid travel
“Gas Chamber” City
The deterioration of air quality in the capital has sparked outrage among residents, which has also been expressed on social media. Many complain of headaches and coughs, describing the city as a “gas chamber”. Many are calling for action to once and for all solve this growing public health crisis, as scientific studies have estimated that more than a million Indians die each year from pollution-related diseases.
Authorities have used similar measures in the past to deal with the problem, including special water sprinklers and fog machines. However, these are temporary measures and do not address the problem permanently. Citizens and organizations are calling for long-term solutions, which drastically reduce the pollution itself, instead of actions aimed at mitigating its effects.
Source: Associated Press
What long-term solutions are being proposed to address air pollution in New Delhi?
Time.news Interview: An Engaging Conversation About Air Pollution in New Delhi
Editor (Time.news): Welcome! Thanks for joining us today to discuss the severe air pollution situation in New Delhi. As an expert in environmental science, what are your thoughts on the current state of air quality in our capital?
Expert: Thank you for having me. The situation in New Delhi is indeed alarming. Recent measures have shown that air quality – with PM2.5 levels reaching as high as 806 micrograms per cubic meter – exceeds the World Health Organization’s safe limits by an astonishing 60 times!
Editor: That’s shocking! Can you explain a bit about what PM2.5 levels mean for the health of residents in the city?
Expert: Certainly. PM2.5 refers to particulate matter that is 2.5 micrometers or smaller in diameter. These tiny particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, leading to a range of health issues such as respiratory infections, reduced lung function, and heart disease. The fact that pollution levels are at least 50 times above recommended limits can have devastating health effects on such a large population.
Editor: It’s hard to imagine the scale of that impact on a city of 33 million people. What are the main contributors to this pollution?
Expert: The primary culprits include stubble burning, emissions from vehicles, and industrial discharges. During the winter, cooler temperatures trap pollutants low in the atmosphere, creating a toxic mix that is then exacerbated by these sources. Farmers burning crop residues near the city is a significant seasonal contributor that coincides with this time of year.
Editor: Speaking of solutions, I noticed that authorities have taken drastic steps, including the suspension of schools and a ban on construction work. Are these measures effective?
Expert: While these measures are necessary to protect public health, they are just temporary fixes. The situation demands long-term strategies, like improving public transportation to reduce reliance on diesel vehicles, promoting cleaner technologies, and enforcing stricter regulations on industries. Unfortunately, the government’s approach has often been criticized as ineffective and uncoordinated.
Editor: It’s clear that immediate regulatory changes are needed. However, what can residents themselves do to cope with this pollution?
Expert: Residents can take some preventive measures, such as wearing N95 masks when outdoors and using air purifiers at home to filter out harmful particles. Staying indoors during high pollution days and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities are also advisable. Community awareness and activism can also drive demand for cleaner air, pushing the government to take more decisive action.
Editor: That’s a very practical viewpoint. With the predicted continuation of this pollution crisis throughout the week, what is your forecast?
Expert: Unfortunately, I anticipate that this situation will persist unless there is a significant change in both government policy and public habits. The implementation of a Stage 4 action plan indicates the gravity of the situation, but without sustained commitment to solve these underlying issues, we’ll likely see a recurrence of this crisis each winter.
Editor: Thank you for shedding light on this critical issue. It’s important for our readers to understand the severity and complexity of air pollution in New Delhi. We hope to see more collective efforts to combat this problem.
Expert: Thank you for the opportunity! Awareness is the first step toward change, and conversations like this are essential for mobilizing action at all levels.