Delhi’s Air Pollution Reaches ‘Severe’ Levels

Residents of Delhi, India’s capital, observed a dense layer of smog as the city’s air quality declined to severe levels. Pollution levels in Delhi and its adjacent cities are currently at least 30 to 35 times higher than the safe threshold advised by the World Health Organization (WHO). Annually, Delhi and various northern states confront hazardous air quality during the winter period from October to January. This recurring issue is attributed to factors such as falling temperatures, smoke, dust, reduced wind speed, emissions from vehicles, and the burning of crop stubble. Experts have indicated that the situation is expected to worsen in the forthcoming days. IQAir, a Swiss-based organization that monitors the Air Quality Index (AQI), reported that pollution levels in multiple areas of Delhi reached the 500 mark on Wednesday morning. The AQI quantifies the concentration of particulate matter, specifically PM 2.5, present in the atmosphere. These minute particles have the capacity to penetrate the lungs and contribute to various illnesses. World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines state that an AQI value of 100 or less signifies air quality suitable for breathing, whereas readings between 400 and 500 indicate that pollution levels in a given region are “severe.” Noida and Gurgaon, which are satellite cities, similarly recorded AQI levels approaching the 500 mark. For several weeks, numerous northern states have been contending with toxic air and diminished visibility. Instances of flights operating to and from Delhi being either cancelled or delayed have been reported, primarily due to the reduced visibility. The density of the smog is such that it is discernible even from space. Nasa recently released satellite imagery depicting a widespread layer of smog covering portions of northern India and adjacent Pakistan. The detrimental air quality is also impacting public health. A survey conducted by LocalCircles, an online community platform, across Delhi and its surrounding cities, indicated that 81% of families reported at least one individual experiencing health problems attributable to pollution within the preceding three weeks. More than one-third of the participants stated they had bought cough syrup during the same period. The Delhi government has implemented its Graded Response Action Plan, which prohibits all activities involving coal and firewood, along with the use of diesel generators for non-emergency purposes. However, this measure has not prevented the city from enduring toxic pollution levels. Furthermore, authorities have advised residents to remain indoors whenever feasible and to utilize public transportation to reduce emissions from vehicles. Based on data from IQAir, Delhi was identified as the most polluted capital city globally in 2023. IQAir also reported that India held the position of the world’s third-most polluted country, following its neighboring nations Bangladesh and Pakistan. Air pollution constitutes a significant challenge in several Indian urban centers. According to experts, the combination of rapid industrialization and inadequate enforcement of environmental regulations has contributed to the escalation of pollution within the nation. While India has experienced substantial development over recent decades, insufficient industrial regulation has resulted in factories failing to adhere to pollution-control standards. Accelerated construction activities have also played a part in the increasing pollution levels. The BBC offers a “Future Earth” newsletter, which provides exclusive insights on the latest climate and environment news from BBC’s Climate Editor Justin Rowlatt, delivered weekly. An international newsletter option is available for audiences outside the UK. This material is copyrighted by BBC in 2024, with all rights reserved. The BBC states it is not accountable for the content of external websites and provides details on its external linking policy.