Air pollution not only harms human health but also poses significant risks to the environment. Toxic air pollutants can damage crops, reduce agricultural yields, and disrupt ecosystems. In urban areas, pollution can contribute to the urban heat island effect, worsening climate change. Additionally, air pollution can lead to the acidification of soil and water bodies, harming wildlife and disrupting biodiversity.
By PC Bureau
The air quality in Delhi and its neighboring cities reached alarmingly high levels on November 19, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) in several areas touching the 500-mark, categorized as ‘severe plus.’ A dense layer of smog enveloped the National Capital Region (NCR), including Gurugram, Noida and Ghaziabad, for the seventh consecutive day, raising significant health concerns.
Delhi recorded the highest AQI at 494 under the ‘severe plus’ category, making it the most polluted city in India. Other North Indian cities like Patna and Lucknow reported AQI levels of 350 and 321, respectively, placing them under the ‘very poor’ category.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), areas like Anand Vihar, Jahangirpuri, RK Puram, and Wazirpur saw AQI levels maxing out at 500.
Doctors have warned that prolonged exposure to high levels of air pollution can cause severe health issues, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions. Pollutants like particulate matter (PM2.5) can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, leading to respiratory diseases, heart problems, and aggravating conditions like asthma and bronchitis. In extreme cases, long-term exposure can increase the risk of strokes, lung cancer, and even premature death.
As the crisis escalates, educational institutions have begun transitioning to online classes. Delhi University and Jawaharlal Nehru University have suspended in-person classes until November 23 and 22, respectively. Similarly, the Directorate of Education directed all government and private schools to suspend physical classes for students, including those in grades 10 and 12.
Delhi Chief Minister Atishi labeled the situation a “medical emergency,” urging institutions to prioritize public health. “From Tuesday, physical classes shall be suspended for classes 10 and 12 as well, and all studies will be shifted online,” she announced on X.
The Union Health Ministry issued an advisory emphasizing the need for states and union territories to strengthen health systems and create awareness among vulnerable groups. It also suggested expanding sentinel hospital networks to monitor pollution-related illnesses and implementing district-level action plans to address the health impacts of climate change.
The Supreme Court has taken a strong stance, directing states in Delhi-NCR to enforce the Graded Response Action Plan-4 (GRAP) restrictions immediately. The court stressed that curbs would remain in place until further notice, emphasizing the constitutional duty of states to ensure citizens live in a pollution-free environment.
The court also criticized the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for delays in implementing GRAP, calling its approach “wrong.” It underscored the need for swift and strict action to tackle the crisis.
Experts attribute the hazardous air quality to stagnant weather conditions and stubble burning in neighboring states. These factors, coupled with vehicular and industrial emissions, have created a toxic mix that is severely affecting visibility and respiratory health across the region.
With AQI levels showing no signs of improvement, authorities are racing to implement measures to curb pollution and safeguard public health. However, long-term solutions to Delhi’s annual pollution crisis remain elusive, raising questions about sustainable urban planning and environmental policies.
