Delhis Air Quality Crisis: Experts Call for Effective Implementation Over Planning

New Delhi, November 12 (Daily Kiran) : Environmental scientist Sunil Dahiya has issued a stark warning regarding air pollution levels in New Delhi, particularly following the Diwali celebrations. He noted that pollution spiked dramatically on the night of Diwali, with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) ceasing to report values exceeding 1,000 micrograms per cubic meter in several areas. Dahiya emphasized that controlling pollution requires effective implementation of strategies, not merely planning.

He explained that the pollution from Diwali, exacerbated by fireworks, becomes visibly apparent, especially under conditions like stable winds and the burning of crop residue, which often occurs from October to November. These factors contribute to hazardous pollution levels that can be seen and felt.

Discussions often focus on fireworks and crop burning, but Dahiya pointed out that year-round pollution sources receive limited attention. As these seasonal events conclude, the conversation around pollution tends to fade, along with the urgency to address it.

On Diwali day itself, pollution levels in Delhi reached approximately 135 micrograms per cubic meter, more than double the daily standard set by India and nearly nine times higher than World Health Organization guidelines. This data reflects that pollution is not confined to specific events; it persists throughout the year, with the exception of the monsoon season when rains clear dust particles.

Dahiya highlighted that the pollution crisis extends beyond Delhi, affecting much of India, particularly the Ganges plains stretching from Punjab in Pakistan to West Bengal and Bangladesh. Despite the imposition of bans aimed at curbing pollution, levels remain alarmingly high.

He noted that measures taken in previous years, such as increasing parking fees, halting construction activities, and limiting office capacities, have often been implemented hastily, leaving little time for effective action.

This year, however, the Delhi government has proactively outlined its Winter Action Plan, informing stakeholders about potential pollution spikes and preemptively restricting activities that contribute to pollution. Dahiya stressed the need for all parties, including private agencies and government bodies, to take necessary steps.

He pointed out that several pollution sources, particularly industries, thermal power plants, and waste management practices, remain inadequately controlled. These sources contribute to pollution continuously, and current action plans have not effectively addressed them.

Dahiya reiterated that successful pollution management hinges on effective implementation rather than mere planning. The alarming pollution levels recorded on Diwali night further underscore this point. Despite a Supreme Court directive limiting firework use to a specific timeframe and permitting only green crackers, violations were reported, with pollution peaking at 1 AM.

Furthermore, reports emerged of counterfeit QR codes on some green crackers, highlighting the challenges in enforcing regulations. While various plans exist to combat pollution, their implementation remains a significant hurdle, contributing to the ongoing air quality crisis in Delhi.