Delhi’s air pollution has reached alarming levels once again, emerging as India’s “most polluted city” in October 2024. According to a study by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), the capital’s average PM2.5 levels soared to 111 µg/m³, the highest since 2021, despite the enforcement of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) starting October 15.
While stubble burning is often cited as a major contributor to the region’s deteriorating air quality, CREA’s analysis revealed that it accounted for just 10% of the pollution in October. Instead, transboundary sources, including emissions from neighboring states and industrial activities, were responsible for 60–70% of Delhi’s PM2.5 levels during this period.
This data challenges the common perception that stubble burning is the primary cause of Delhi’s worsening air quality. The Ministry of Earth Sciences observed a surge in the daily contribution of stubble burning to PM2.5 levels starting October 21, yet it remains a minor player compared to other pollution sources.
The study highlights the complex nature of Delhi’s air quality crisis, where multiple factors—including vehicular emissions, construction dust, and industrial pollution—combine with seasonal burning of crop residue to create hazardous air conditions. As the city struggles to combat rising pollution, there is an urgent need for comprehensive strategies that address both local and transboundary sources of air pollution.
With Delhi’s pollution levels worsening, it’s clear that addressing the broader issues of industrial and vehicular emissions will be crucial in improving the city’s air quality and safeguarding public health.
Image Credits: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-54930380
