Delhi Air Quality Worsening: Pollution Before and After Diwali in 2024

Delhi Air Quality Worsening | Pollution During Diwali | Delhi's Air Pollution Measures

Delhi’s air quality worsens annually as winter approaches, a situation exacerbated by the festive season around Diwali. This worsening pollution is not solely the result of one factor but a complex mix of environmental and human activities. This article explores the causes, impacts, government measures, and potential for improvement, along with tips for personal action.

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With the arrival of Diwali, Delhi experiences a significant spike in air pollution, leading to a visible and tangible reduction in air quality. As India’s most celebrated festival, Diwali brings together families, lights, and unfortunately, pollution. A major contributor to this seasonal pollution is crop burning in nearby states, but fireworks, vehicular emissions, and ongoing construction further aggravate the situation. All of these factors combine with weather conditions typical of winter, creating a thick smog over Delhi that impacts millions of lives.

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Causes of Air Pollution in Delhi Pre- and Post-Diwali

Crop Burning
One of the most significant contributors to Delhi’s deteriorating air quality is crop burning, particularly in Punjab and Haryana. Farmers burn rice stubble as a quick method to clear their fields for the next planting season, releasing enormous amounts of particulate matter and other pollutants. These pollutants, carried by the wind, add to Delhi’s already high pollution levels and can push the Air Quality Index (AQI) to hazardous levels.

Firecrackers on Diwali
Despite government bans on firecrackers, their use during Diwali continues to contribute heavily to air pollution. Firecrackers release a dense mix of harmful chemicals, including sulfur dioxide and carbon monoxide, into the air, causing short-term but intense spikes in pollution levels. The overnight use of firecrackers results in particulate matter lingering in the atmosphere, making the next morning’s air quality particularly poor.

Construction and Vehicular Emissions
Delhi’s construction activities, including large infrastructure projects, release dust and other particulates into the air. Coupled with vehicular emissions from millions of cars, the city’s pollution situation worsens during the colder months, when these pollutants become trapped due to low wind speeds.

Winter Weather Patterns
Winter conditions trap pollutants close to the ground, with cool temperatures and low wind speeds making it difficult for polluted air to disperse. This phenomenon, known as temperature inversion, occurs when a layer of warmer air sits atop a layer of cooler air near the ground, trapping pollutants and creating dense smog that can linger for days.

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Impact of Air Pollution on Health and Environment

Health Risks
High pollution levels pose serious health risks, particularly to children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. Prolonged exposure to air pollution has been linked to respiratory issues, cardiovascular diseases, and conditions like asthma and bronchitis. During Diwali, when pollution levels can reach extreme levels, many people experience immediate symptoms, including coughing, throat irritation, and shortness of breath.

Environmental Impact
Beyond its impact on human health, air pollution also affects the local environment. Pollutants damage plant life, reduce visibility, and alter the region’s microclimate. High pollution levels reduce the amount of sunlight reaching the ground, affecting vegetation and wildlife.

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Government Measures and Their Effectiveness

Delhi Air Quality Worsening | Pollution During Diwali | Delhi's Air Pollution Measures

Anti-Smog Guns and Water Sprinkling
In high-pollution areas, the Delhi government uses anti-smog guns and water sprinkling to reduce dust particles in the air. These measures are typically applied in high-traffic zones and near construction sites, where they can provide temporary relief.

Ban on Firecrackers
The Delhi government has imposed a ban on firecrackers in an attempt to curb pollution during Diwali. While this ban has helped to reduce the number of firecrackers used, effective enforcement remains a challenge. Additionally, compliance varies, with some residents still using firecrackers.

Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)
GRAP is a set of emergency measures activated based on AQI levels. When air quality deteriorates, measures such as restrictions on diesel generators, construction bans, and even school closures are put into place. While GRAP is effective at providing a coordinated response, it offers only temporary relief rather than a long-term solution.

Odd-Even Scheme for Vehicles
Delhi has also implemented an odd-even scheme, where cars with odd- and even-numbered plates are allowed on alternate days. While this reduces vehicular traffic, its long-term impact remains limited as it only applies for short periods during peak pollution times.

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Public Participation in Reducing Air Pollution

Individuals play a critical role in reducing Delhi’s air pollution. By making conscious choices, residents can contribute to improving air quality. Eco-friendly firecrackers, carpooling, and opting for public transportation are some ways individuals can lessen their impact. Supporting green initiatives like tree plantation drives and adhering to government regulations during pollution peaks are other effective actions residents can take to combat pollution.

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Expert Opinions and Predictions for the Future

Environmental experts and health professionals have repeatedly stressed the need for comprehensive action to address Delhi’s air quality issues. Long-term solutions include shifting to cleaner energy sources, improving waste management, and enhancing green cover. Without sustained measures, experts predict that Delhi’s air quality may continue to worsen each year. However, with stricter policies and public cooperation, significant improvement is achievable.

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Conclusion

Delhi’s air quality during Diwali underscores the need for consistent efforts to tackle pollution. While temporary measures provide some relief, the lasting solution lies in a collaborative approach involving government actions and individual responsibility. By recognizing the causes, impacts, and potential for change, we can work together to create a cleaner, healthier environment for everyone.

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FAQs

Q1: Why does Delhi's air quality worsen before and after Diwali?
A: Delhi’s air quality declines due to stubble burning in neighboring states, increased firecracker usage during Diwali, and winter weather that traps pollutants near the ground.

Q2: How does air pollution impact health in Delhi?
A: High pollution levels can cause respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, worsen asthma, and lead to immediate symptoms like coughing, throat irritation, and breathing difficulties.

Q3: What measures is the Delhi government taking to control air pollution?
A: The government enforces measures like the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), anti-smog guns, a firecracker ban, and odd-even traffic schemes to improve air quality.

Q4: Are firecrackers banned during Diwali in Delhi?
A: Yes, firecrackers are banned to reduce pollution, but enforcement and compliance can vary, affecting the ban’s effectiveness.

Q5: Can individuals contribute to improving Delhi's air quality?
A: Yes, by using eco-friendly alternatives, reducing vehicle use, and supporting green initiatives, individuals can play a role in reducing pollution.