Mains Daily Question
March 27, 2024

Q.3 The issue of air pollution in Delhi is much more severe as compared to other metropolitan cities in India. What are the factors responsible for such a situation? Also, give suggestions to overcome this problem. (10M/150W).

Model Answer

Approach to the answer 

Understanding and Structuring the Answer: To answer this question effectively, we'll first discuss the factors responsible for the severe air pollution in Delhi compared to other metropolitan cities in India. Then, we'll provide suggestions to overcome this problem. 

Introduction: 

    • Type 1: Briefly introduce metropolitan cities in India and highlight the concern of air pollution in urban areas.
  • Type 2: Briefly introduce the issue of severe air pollution in Delhi compared to other metropolitan cities.

Body:

  • Heading 1: Factors Responsible for Severe Air Pollution in Delhi: In this section, we'll explore the specific factors contributing to the high levels of air pollution in Delhi.
  • Heading 2: Suggestions to Overcome the Problem: Here, we'll provide practical recommendations to address and mitigate the issue of air pollution in Delhi.

Conclusion:

    • Type 1: Summarize the key points about the factors responsible for severe air pollution in Delhi and the suggested measures to overcome this problem.
  • Type 2: Mention initiatives taken by government regarding the issue of pollution.

 

Answer:  Rapid urbanization and industrialization have led to increased air pollution concerns in all major metropolitan cities. However, Delhi faces a more serious air pollution problem compared to the other metropolitan cities.

 

Factors Responsible for Severe Air Pollution in Delhi:

  • Vehicular Emissions: Delhi has a large number of vehicles, and their emissions are a major source of air pollution. The increasing number of diesel-powered vehicles and outdated vehicles with inadequate emission controls worsen the situation.
  • Industrial Emissions: The concentration of industries in and around Delhi releases significant amounts of pollutants into the air, including particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds.
    • For instance, proximity of Delhi to industrial regions like Faridabad, Okhla and Noida.
  • Construction and Dust: Ongoing construction activities in Delhi contribute to a substantial amount of dust, which becomes airborne and adds to the particulate matter pollution.
  • Biomass Burning: Crop residue burning in nearby states, especially during the post-harvest season, adds to Delhi's pollution burden, contributing to elevated levels of particulate matter and other pollutants. 
    • For instance, burning of paddy crops and other crops in Punjab and Haryana during winter months
  • Geographical Factors: Delhi's landlocked geographical location, coupled with temperature inversions during winters, leads to the trapping of pollutants close to the ground, resulting in the formation of the infamous "Delhi smog."

Suggestions to Overcome the Problem: 

  • Improvement in Public Transport: Encouraging the use of public transport and promoting electric and cleaner vehicles can significantly reduce vehicular emissions.
  • Strict Emission Norms and Enforcement: Enforcing stringent emission standards for vehicles and industries, along with regular monitoring and penalties for non-compliance, can help control pollution at the source.
  • Promotion of Clean Energy: Encouraging the adoption of renewable energy sources and clean fuels can help reduce reliance on fossil fuels, decreasing pollution from power generation and transportation.
  • Waste Management and Biomass Utilization: Proper waste management practices and incentivizing alternatives to crop residue burning can mitigate biomass-related air pollution.
  • Afforestation and Green Spaces: Increasing green cover through afforestation and creating green spaces within the city can help absorb pollutants and improve air quality.
  • Public Awareness and Behavior Change: Educating the public about the impact of air pollution and promoting behavior change, such as carpooling and reducing waste burning, can have a positive impact.

By adopting a comprehensive approach that involves multiple stakeholders, including the government, industries, citizens, and civil society, Delhi can effectively combat air pollution and create a healthier environment for its residents.

Subjects : Geography
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