Delhi’s air pollution crisis worsened in November, with PM2.5 levels reaching an alarming monthly average of 249 micrograms per cubic meter, the highest in eight years since 2017. This is despite the implementation of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) and a notable decline in stubble-burning incidents. The report by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air reveals that the situation emphasizes the perpetual struggle to curb air pollution within the National Capital Region (NCR).
The CREA report indicates that in November 2024, the average PM2.5 levels had come very close to the record set in November 2016, when the average was at 254 micrograms per cubic meter. PM2.5 means particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less; it can penetrate the lungs and bloodstream, posing a big health risk.
The Commission for Air Quality Management in the NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) has initiated measures to reduce pollution by invoking anti-pollution steps with GRAP measures that enhance step-by-step interventions depending upon air quality parameters. Nonetheless, the average PM2.5 values in November 2024 were alarming after rising compared with 241 micrograms per cubic meter in the year 2023, 181 in the year 2022, and 214 in 2020.
The CREA report informs that 159 out of 268 Indian cities broke the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for PM2.5 in November, particularly in Delhi and NCR cities such as Ghaziabad, Noida, and Gurgaon. It limits the safe value for PM2.5 as prescribed by NAAQS at 60 µg/m³. Here in Delhi, there have been 20 days classified in the “Very Poor” air quality category at a range of 121-250 µg/m³. Further, 10 days are classified as “Severe” at above 250 µg/m³.
Where stubble burning contributed around 19% to PM2.5 levels in Delhi, perennial sources of pollution such as transportation accounted for more than 20%. The delay in the implementation of GRAP Stages 3 and 4 on November 13, while “severe” air quality levels were forecasted, further added to the problem.
The NCR cities reported severe pollution as well, with 28 urban centers breaching NAAQS. According to data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the air quality in Delhi has remained “Very Poor” or “Severe” since October 30. This trend signifies the marginal on-ground effectiveness of GRAP and that there is a need for a long-term, airshed-based strategy to mitigate emissions from year-round sources.
Conclusion
Despite efforts on the part of GRAP to address pollution, the downward spiral of PM2.5 levels in Delhi only suggests that there is a need for long-term and integrated measures. Seasonal interventions have so far been inadequate to address pollution in the NCR, as the contribution of transportation and other perennial sources remains high. To ensure the public health and clean air, a strategic focus on emission control with effective long-term policies is inescapable.
Source: PTI