NEW DELHI: The
air quality in Delhi-NCR has plunged to 'Severe Plus' category. But what’s fueling this toxic pollutants in the NCR? Here’s the major culprits behind this toxic smog:
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Delhi-NCR Air Pollution News Today Live Updates: Medical emergency in northern India due to stubble burning, says CM Atishi1. Stubble BurningAgricultural fires in neighboring states like Punjab and Haryana are a significant contributor to Delhi’s smog. On Saturday, stubble burning accounted for 25.2% of Delhi’s PM2.5 levels. Farmers burning crop residue to clear fields release massive amounts of particulate matter and gases, which get trapped in Delhi's atmosphere due to unfavorable weather conditions.
2. Vehicular EmissionsWith millions of vehicles on the road, Delhi’s transportation sector remains a top polluter. Diesel-powered vehicles, especially older ones (BS-IV or earlier), emit high levels of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter, worsening air quality. Restrictions under GRAP Stage-IV have now banned these vehicles from operating in Delhi, except for those providing essential services.
3. Construction DustUnregulated construction activities, including roads, highways, and public infrastructure projects, release large quantities of dust into the air. In response, all construction activities in Delhi-NCR have been suspended under the GRAP Stage-IV measures to curb particulate pollution.
4. Industrial EmissionsIndustrial units, including coal-based thermal power plants within a 300-km radius of Delhi, are major contributors to SO2 and NOx emissions. Despite mandates to install Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) systems, most plants have missed deadlines, allowing pollutants to continue entering the air unchecked.
5. Household EmissionsBurning of wood, coal, and other biomass for cooking and heating in low-income areas adds to the local pollution levels. These activities release fine particles (PM2.5 and PM10) and toxic gases that contribute to the smog.
6. Meteorological ConditionsDelhi’s geographical location and winter weather amplify the pollution crisis. The city experiences low wind speeds, heavy fog, and temperature inversions, which trap pollutants close to the ground, forming a persistent layer of smog.
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