Delhi Implements Stricter Pollution Curbs as Air Quality Plunges to Severe+ 999: Today, ITI Jahagirpuri AQI-999. Delhi will implement further pollution control measures as the air quality deteriorates to the “Severe+” category, signaling a public health emergency. The restrictions are part of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage 4, designed to tackle the dangerous air pollution index.
Key Measures Under GRAP Stage 4:
- Construction Ban: All unnecessary construction and devastation activities are restricted.
- Vehicle Restrictions: Diesel vehicles that do not meet BS-VI standards are banned, except for emergency services and the carrier of necessary goods.
- Closure of Polluting Units: Close those industries that rely on polluting fuels.
- No entry for trucks: Trucks moving unnecessary goods will not be permitted entry into Delhi.
Read More: Dense Fog and Smog Engulf NCR Cities, Reduce Visibility, and Impact Air Quality
Current Air Quality Status:
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in several regions of Delhi crossed 450 min to a max of 999 ITI Jahangirpuri, Delhi AQi, falling into the “Severe++” category. This level poses serious health problems, especially for weak classes like children, older people, and those with respiratory cases.
Authorities have advised people to stay indoors as much as possible, use public transport, and avoid activities that contribute to smog.
Action for Citizens:
- Wear masks while outdoors.
- Use carpooling or public transport.
- Restrict outdoor physical activities.
The situation is being carefully tracked, and action measures may be implemented if the air quality continues to deteriorate.
But the question is, Why did the same issues keep coming up?
The recurring issues with Delhi’s AQI stem from systemic failures, lack of cohesive planning, and political blame games. All levels of government avoid collective responsibility, focusing by choice on short-term measures and deflecting responsibility, including the blame game on each other.
Public health is neglected as no cooperative effort is put together to tackle stubble burning, vehicular emissions, and industrial pollution. This fragmented approach only perpetuates the crisis, leaving citizens to bear the consequences of worsening air quality.
Many Countries That Confounded Intense Pollution
Several nations infamous for high pollution levels have successfully swept up their atmospheres. Here’s how they did it:
1. China (Beijing)
Then: In the 2010s, Beijing was notorious for dangerous smog, with AQI frequently exceeding 300.
Now: Drastic progress with AQI frequently below 100.
How: The government was working with full passion to get better AQI. -Strict air quality laws.
-Awareness Campaign for the public.
-Ban coal-fired plants in urban areas.
-Promote electric vehicles and renewable energy.
2. Germany
Before: Heavy automation in the 1980s led to extreme air and water pollution.
Now: A global leader in environmental sustainability. Public awareness with strict guidelines for the public.
How: Shift to green energy through the “Energiewende” policy.
-Strict vehicle emission controls.
-Recycling and waste management agendas.
3. Japan (Tokyo)
Then: In the 1950s-60s, Tokyo faced high pollution due to rapid industrial growth.
Now: A model for urban air quality and clean energy.
How: stringent air and water pollution laws.
Promote public transport and hybrid vehicles.
Heavy penalties for polluting industries.
4. South Korea (Seoul)
Then Seoul struggled with air pollution from quick urbanization in the 1990s.
Now: air quality has significantly enhanced.
How: Switching to clean energy sources.
-Extensive use of public transport.
-The government needs to invest in green technology and urban greening projects.
Lessons for the Indian Government and Others:
- Stricter Policies: Enforce laws against industrial and vehicular emissions.
- Green Energy: Promote solar, wind, and other renewables.
- Public awareness: educate citizens on reducing pollution at individual levels.
- Technology Use: Invest in air quality monitoring and greener alternatives.
These countries show that transformation is possible with measures and consistent efforts.
