Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) have once again found themselves grappling with severe air pollution. The Supreme Court of India has stepped in, ordering the closure of schools and implementing stringent measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Level 4. With AQI levels breaching hazardous limits, these actions aim to curb the health risks posed by the toxic air.
In this blog, we delve into the causes, impacts, and measures taken to combat Delhi’s persistent air pollution crisis.
The Current Situation: An Alarming AQI
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi and NCR has consistently crossed the “severe” mark over the past few weeks. The region has been blanketed by smog, reducing visibility and causing respiratory distress among residents. The Supreme Court’s directives are a response to the worsening situation, with schools shutting down and GRAP Level 4 restrictions being enforced.
What Are GRAP 4 Restrictions?
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a set of measures implemented in phases depending on air quality levels. GRAP 4 is the most stringent level and includes the following restrictions:
- School Closures: All educational institutions in Delhi-NCR are to remain shut until air quality improves.
- Vehicle Restrictions: Ban on entry of non-essential trucks and restrictions on diesel-powered vehicles.
- Construction Ban: All construction and demolition activities are halted to prevent dust pollution.
- Industrial Shutdown: Closure of non-essential industrial units contributing to emissions.
- Work-from-Home Policies: Government offices and private companies encouraged to adopt remote working.
These measures are designed to reduce pollution levels and minimize exposure for residents.
Causes of Delhi’s Air Pollution
Several factors contribute to Delhi’s alarming air pollution levels:
- Stubble Burning: Farmers in neighboring states like Punjab and Haryana burn crop residue, releasing large amounts of smoke into the atmosphere.
- Vehicular Emissions: The high density of vehicles in Delhi-NCR contributes significantly to air pollution.
- Industrial Emissions: Factories and thermal power plants in and around the region emit harmful pollutants.
- Construction Dust: Ongoing urban development adds to particulate matter in the air.
- Weather Conditions: Low wind speeds and temperature inversions trap pollutants close to the ground.
Impact on Health and Daily Life
The health consequences of air pollution are severe, particularly for vulnerable populations like children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions. Common issues include:
- Respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, and COPD.
- Increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Eye irritation and skin allergies.
- Reduced productivity due to discomfort and illnesses.
On a broader scale, poor air quality disrupts daily life, affecting school schedules, outdoor activities, and even economic productivity.
Steps Taken by Authorities
The Supreme Court’s intervention is part of a broader effort to address the crisis. Other measures include:
- Use of Anti-Smog Guns: Deployed in key areas to reduce particulate matter.
- Water Sprinkling: Regular spraying of water on roads to settle dust.
- Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public on ways to reduce individual contributions to pollution.
- Promotion of Public Transport: Encouraging the use of metros and buses to reduce vehicular emissions.
What Can Residents Do?
While government actions are crucial, individual contributions also play a significant role in combating air pollution. Here’s how residents can help:
- Avoid unnecessary travel and use public transport.
- Minimize the use of diesel generators and other polluting appliances.
- Follow waste segregation rules and avoid burning garbage.
- Plant trees and support urban afforestation efforts.
- Use air purifiers indoors to mitigate health risks.
Conclusion
Delhi’s air pollution crisis demands urgent and coordinated efforts from the government, judiciary, and citizens. The Supreme Court’s directives to close schools and impose GRAP 4 restrictions reflect the gravity of the situation. However, long-term solutions addressing stubble burning, vehicular emissions, and industrial pollution are essential to prevent such recurring crises.
As residents adapt to these measures, the hope remains for cleaner skies and healthier living conditions in the future.