Delhi’s air quality has been a matter of concern for quite some time now. The city often faces high levels of pollution, especially during certain seasons and weather conditions. So the Delhi government on Wednesday announced an early winter break in school from November 09 to 18 during the air pollution in the capital. “In the wake of implementation of GRAP-IV measures due to Severe Air Quality prevailing in Delhi and seeing that no respite from such adverse weather conditions in near future is predicted by the IMO, the Winter Break for the session 2023-24 is ordered to be preponed so that schools can be totally closed and both children and teachers can stay at home,” said the official. The holidays were announced from November 03 to 10 due to the ongoing air pollution constantly effecting the air quality.
The city’s air quality has frequently made headlines for all the wrong reasons, and the battle for cleaner air remains an ongoing struggle. Delhi’s air quality is no stranger to extremes. It often oscillates between ‘poor’ to ‘hazardous’ levels, particularly during the winter months. The primary factors contributing to this pollution are vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, construction activities, and agricultural residue burning in the neighboring states.
Delhi Smog increased pollution sources makes it a particularly challenging period and the combination of lower temperatures, atmospheric conditions make it difficult to breath. The air quality in Delhi is typically assessed using the Air Quality Index (AQI), which categorizes air quality on a scale from ‘Good’ to ‘Hazardous.’ During severe pollution episodes, the AQI can breach hazardous levels, posing significant health risks to residents.
The poor air quality in Delhi has dire consequences for public health. Prolonged exposure to polluted air can lead to various respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, making it a major public health concern. Vulnerable groups, such as children and the elderly, are particularly at risk.
Government Initiatives
The Delhi government, along with central authorities, has taken several measures to combat air pollution. Delhi government Minister Gopal Rai had said that Odd-Even Scheme in Delhi from November 13-20 to prevent pollution. Include odd-even vehicle rationing schemes, promoting cleaner fuels, enhancing public transportation, and enforcing construction dust control measures etc.
Delhi’s air quality challenges are a matter of concern, but they are not insurmountable. With concerted efforts from the government, businesses, and the citizens themselves, Delhi can aspire to breathe fresher air. A cleaner and healthier future for the city is possible, but it demands collective action and a commitment to sustainable practices.