Delhi is grappling with a severe air pollution crisis as winter descends, sending the Air Quality Index (AQI) plummeting to ‘severe’ levels. The situation is particularly alarming, with 16 weather stations recording AQI readings exceeding 400, and a further 7 stations experiencing air quality classified as ‘severe’ by evening. This hazardous air quality poses a serious threat to public health, with rising cases of respiratory illnesses like asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and other breathing problems reported.
To combat the escalating pollution, the Delhi government has taken a decisive step by increasing the penalty for stubble burning. This practice, prevalent in neighboring states, is a significant contributor to the alarming air quality in the national capital. However, experts warn that the issue of stubble burning is just one piece of the puzzle, and a comprehensive approach involving stringent regulations, awareness campaigns, and technological solutions is crucial to effectively tackle this long-standing environmental problem.
The deteriorating air quality is a stark reminder of the recurring winter pollution crisis Delhi faces. The city’s geography, coupled with factors like vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and the seasonal burning of crop residue, create a toxic cocktail that suffocates the city each year. The coming days are expected to witness a further decline in air quality as winter progresses, necessitating urgent action to mitigate the health risks posed by this environmental scourge.
