With the onset of cooler weather, Delhi is once again preparing for the seasonal surge in air pollution that has become a recurring public health crisis. Capital’s air quality could deteriorate sharply in the coming weeks as emissions from vehicles, industry, and stubble burning combine with stagnant weather conditions.
Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) shows that pollution levels begin climbing in late September, peaking between October and January when low wind speeds and temperature inversion trap pollutants close to the ground.
Last year, Delhi recorded “severe” air quality on multiple days, forcing school closures, flight disruptions, and restrictions on construction and traffic.
One of the biggest contributors remains vehicular emission. According to Kalyani Tembhe, Deputy Programme Manager, Centre for Science and Environment, Delhi’s own pollution is very high and within that around 50 per cent pollution is getting contributed through vehicular emission.
Despite repeated crackdowns and subsidies for alternative methods, crop residue burning in neighbouring Punjab and Haryana add to the toxic mix.
Meanwhile, environment minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said that the government will conduct a study on titanium oxide-based ‘smog-eating’ coatings that can be applied to roads to curb the air pollution in the city.
He said that if the study confirms that the technology is effective and cost efficient, the department will move the proposal for implementation.
Health experts caution that even short exposure to polluted air can aggravate respiratory illnesses. With hospitals already stretched, the coming months are expected to test the city’s resilience once again.
“You should try to avoid outdoor activities as much as possible. Even when somebody is moving out, they should use a mask. A face mask is a must. In case of any respiratory ailment or such problem, it should not be taken lightly, ” Dr. Ajay Swaroop, ENT Surgeon, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital had told Tehelka earlier.
The minimum temperature in the city was recorded at 23.8 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, with the weather office predicting a mainly clear sky. The maximum temperature is expected to settle around 35 degrees Celsius, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.
