31 October, 2024; As the vibrant festival of Diwali draws near, the air quality in Delhi NCR has taken a severe hit, raising environmental and health concerns across the region. Despite the government’s ban on firecrackers, certain areas of Delhi witnessed bursts of firecrackers, which have compounded an already deteriorating air quality situation.
Severe AQI Levels Recorded
In several parts of Delhi NCR, including Anand Vihar, the Air Quality Index (AQI) has plunged into the “severe” category, posing significant health risks to residents. The AQI scale, which measures pollutants such as PM2.5 and PM10, categorizes anything above 300 as hazardous, and Anand Vihar’s AQI levels have reportedly exceeded this threshold. Such air quality conditions can trigger respiratory and cardiovascular problems, especially in vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions.
Firecracker Ban and Enforcement Challenges
Delhi and its neighboring regions have enforced a strict ban on firecrackers to control pollution levels, particularly during Diwali when the air quality typically worsens due to a combination of winter atmospheric conditions and pollution sources. Despite these restrictions, reports indicate that certain areas in Delhi still saw sporadic firecracker bursts, amplifying the concentration of pollutants and making it challenging to achieve a significant improvement in air quality.
Stubble Burning and Winter Conditions Compound the Issue
Adding to the complexity of Delhi’s pollution problem is stubble burning in neighboring states like Punjab and Haryana, where post-harvest agricultural burning has traditionally contributed to a smoke-filled Delhi skyline each autumn. Combined with the cooler winter temperatures, which trap pollutants closer to the ground, these practices have led to dense smog and poor visibility in the region.
Government and Community Efforts to Combat Pollution
In response to this recurring issue, the Delhi government has launched several initiatives aimed at reducing air pollution. Programs like the “Red Light On, Gaadi Off” campaign encourage residents to turn off their vehicle engines at traffic signals to reduce emissions. Additionally, increased deployment of air purifiers, awareness campaigns, and road dust management are some measures aimed at tackling pollution. However, experts suggest that the compliance gap, especially during the festive season, continues to present a major hurdle in controlling emissions.
Public Health at Stake
With AQI levels reaching dangerous levels, doctors and health professionals are advising residents to take precautionary measures, including wearing N95 masks outdoors, limiting physical activities, and using air purifiers indoors. Schools in the region are also considering implementing remote classes as pollution poses a serious risk to students’ health.
As Delhi grapples with severe air quality during this festive season, a collaborative effort between authorities and citizens is essential to mitigate the immediate effects of pollution and prevent its recurrence.
