India’s Pollution Crisis: A Looming Public Health Emergency
As winter descends upon north India, particularly during the festive season of Diwali, the air in Delhi transforms into a thick, brown haze filled with visible pollutants. Breathing becomes akin to inhaling toxic fumes, and the air quality deteriorates to such an extent that even iconic landmarks are obscured by smoky veils. Delhi, for the past decade, has consistently held the ignominious title of being the world’s most polluted city, with other Indian cities not far behind. A recent study estimated that the 30 million inhabitants in and around the capital could lose almost 12 years of their lives due to the catastrophic health effects of the pollution.
The Culprit: Stubble Burning and Beyond
A significant portion of the blame for this pollution crisis is often attributed to farmers who practice stubble burning, a method of quickly preparing fields between rice and wheat harvests. This practice, despite being banned in 2015, continues to contribute to Delhi’s pollution levels, albeit to a lesser extent. However, experts argue that focusing solely on farmers and treating pollution as a seasonal issue limited to one city is hindering meaningful solutions. The pollution is a result of various sectors, including transportation, construction, power plants, and waste management.
Urgent Calls for Action
Environmentalists and experts emphasize the need for comprehensive measures to address the root causes of air pollution. Avinash Chanchal from Greenpeace South Asia highlights that pollution in Delhi is a year-round problem originating from multiple sources, including vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and construction. Delaying action on the pollution crisis poses severe economic and health risks, turning it into a public health emergency. Despite the alarming situation, pollution remains a low-priority issue in India’s political landscape, with little emphasis during election campaigns.
A Long Road Ahead: Towards Cleaner Air
To combat the pollution crisis effectively, stringent regulations on major polluting industries, such as coal-fired power stations and steel plants, are necessary. Sunil Dahiya from Envirocatalysts stresses the need for accountability among big polluters and setting targets for pollution reduction in all sectors. Bhargav Krishna from Sustainable Futures Collaborative underscores the nationwide scope of the pollution problem, urging for a holistic approach to tackle air pollution in India. The journey towards cleaner air requires addressing structural issues and prioritizing environmental concerns alongside economic growth initiatives.
Through concerted efforts and a collective commitment to environmental preservation, India can pave the way towards a future where clean air is a fundamental right rather than a luxury. The time to act is now to ensure a sustainable and healthy environment for current and future generations.
