Delhi's Air Pollution: Strategies For Control And Improvement

Delhi, India's capital, has the poorest air quality among capital cities globally. The city's air pollution is a public health crisis, causing over 2 million deaths a year across India. The air pollution in Delhi is caused by a combination of vehicle emissions, fumes from the construction industry, thermal power plants, industrial emissions, and the burning of wood and dirty fuels for cooking and heating. To address this issue, the Indian government has implemented various measures, such as the National Clean Air Program, which aims to reduce particulate matter pollution by 30% by 2024, and the Graded Response Action Plan, which includes a set of emergency measures to prevent further deterioration of air quality. Additionally, specific action plans have been developed for Delhi's pollution hotspots, and the public is increasingly supportive of stricter air quality laws and policies.

Stop the use of coal in hotels and restaurants

Delhi is the most polluted capital city in the world, with air pollution causing one in eight deaths. The city's toxic smog season usually emerges every winter, with pollution from vehicles, industry, and the burning of wood and dirty fuels for cooking and heating being some of the main causes.

One way to combat this issue is to stop the use of coal in hotels and restaurants. Coal combustion releases fly ash, a dangerous byproduct that can cause lung disease if inhaled. There are approximately 9,000 hotels and restaurants in Delhi that use coal, mostly in tandoors, and they are a major source of particulate matter emissions.

To address this issue, the East Delhi Municipal Corporation (EDMC) banned the use of coal and firewood in hotels and eateries under its jurisdiction in 2021. The South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC) followed suit in 2024, issuing a notice to restaurants in south Delhi to stop using coal in tandoors. While restaurateurs expressed concerns about a change in taste and the time required to find alternatives, environmentalists maintain that the situation in Delhi is an emergency that requires immediate action.

As a result of these measures, electrical tandoors with proper emission, channelization, and control systems are now permitted to operate within licensed premises. This shift is expected to bring down levels of particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and other harmful pollutants.

In addition to the efforts of municipal corporations, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has also played a role. The CAQM directed the Centre-run Coal India Limited to stop supplying and selling coal to industrial units and commercial organizations (except thermal power plants) in the National Capital Region. This ban came into effect on January 1, 2023, demonstrating the urgency and importance placed on reducing air pollution in Delhi.

Stop municipal solid waste (MSW) burning

Municipal solid waste (MSW) burning is a major source of particulate matter emissions in developing countries such as India. Delhi burns 190 to 246 tons of MSW every day, according to a 2015 study, which severely pollutes the air. A 2016 IIT Kanpur study of the city's air quality contended that MSW burning contributed nearly 10% to the PM10 and PM2.5 loads in Delhi's ambient air during the winters. The emissions from garbage burning were estimated at 2,000 kg/day of PM10 and 1,800 kg/day of PM2.5.

To stop MSW burning in Delhi, the following measures can be taken:

Develop infrastructure for effective collection and disposal of MSW

The IIT Kanpur study recommended developing infrastructure, including access to remote and congested areas, for effective collection of MSW and disposal at landfill sites. This would require a combined effort that involves the interplay of both social and infrastructural systems. For example, providing infrastructure for waste pickup and informal restrictions from residents and neighbourhood associations can play a significant role in restricting MSW burning at the neighbourhood scale.

Raise awareness about the environmental and health impact of MSW burning

A lack of awareness about the environmental impact of open burning and ignorance of the fact that it is a source of emission of carcinogenic substances are major hindrances towards an appropriate municipal solid waste management system in India. Raising awareness about the health and environmental risks associated with MSW burning among waste handlers and households can help to reduce the incidence of waste burning.

Improve the garbage collection mechanism

While there have been improvements in the garbage collection mechanism in Delhi in recent years, with the introduction of mechanised interventions like compactors and door-to-door garbage collection in some areas, there are still issues with irregular waste collection in unauthorised colonies and outer Delhi areas. Improving the garbage collection mechanism in these areas can help to reduce MSW burning.

Enforce existing bans on MSW burning

Despite a legal ban on MSW burning in India, it is still observed ubiquitously in Indian cities. Enforcing existing bans and monitoring compliance can help to reduce MSW burning. The IIT Kanpur study recommended that any form of garbage burning should be strictly stopped and monitored for compliance.

Cover construction materials

Construction and demolition sites are a major source of air pollution in Delhi. The movement of machinery, demolition operations, and the loading and unloading of materials release suspended particles (PM10, PM2.5, and PM1) that can cause serious health issues when inhaled. To combat this, there are several measures that can be taken to cover construction materials and reduce air pollution.

Firstly, vertical coverings can be used to enclose the construction area, preventing the escape of pollutants. This method has been proven to improve air quality by 50%. In addition, raw materials such as sand should be covered, and water spray and windbreakers should be utilised to prevent the dispersion of particles. It is also important to store waste inside the premises and cover construction materials during transportation to and from the site.

Another important strategy is to use telescopic chutes during concrete batching, which is the process of mixing materials to form concrete. Concrete batching is a significant contributor to fly ash emissions in Delhi. By using telescopic chutes, along with water spray and windbreakers, the release of fly ash can be minimised.

Furthermore, the use of more sustainable materials can play a crucial role in reducing air pollution from construction sites. Recycling and reusing building materials, as well as opting for low-VOC paints, can significantly reduce the emission of harmful substances during and after construction. VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are released from paints, adhesives, solvents, and other building materials, and can have detrimental effects on health.

To ensure the effectiveness of these measures, real-time air quality monitoring is essential. Systems such as those offered by Kunak can provide continuous measurements of dust levels, allowing for the implementation of additional mechanisms such as water spraying, dust barriers, and the use of PPE and masks.

By adopting these strategies, it is possible to mitigate the impact of construction on air pollution, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment for the people of Delhi.

Use electric, BS-VI vehicles

Use of Electric and BS-VI Vehicles to Control Air Pollution in Delhi

Delhi, the capital of India, has been facing hazardous levels of air pollution, with the air quality index (AQI) often crossing the 'severe' or 'severe plus' thresholds. One of the major contributors to this crisis is vehicle emissions, which account for up to 38% of PM2.5 emissions in the city. To address this issue, the Delhi government and environmental experts have proposed several measures, including the promotion of electric and BS-VI vehicles.

Electric Vehicles:

Electric vehicles (EVs) are an essential component of the strategy to reduce air pollution in Delhi. EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, meaning they do not directly emit pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) or particulate matter during their operation. Transitioning to electric mobility can significantly reduce the city's overall emissions and improve air quality. The Delhi government has already started encouraging the use of electric vehicles by allowing only electric trucks to enter the city during periods of high pollution. Additionally, the government has also suggested that electric buses are the only ones permitted to operate between Delhi and nearby cities and towns in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan within the National Capital Region (NCR).

BS-VI Vehicles:

BS-VI (Bharat Stage VI) vehicles are those that comply with the sixth iteration of the Bharat Stage Emission Standards, which are the norms notified by the Indian government to regulate air pollutants from internal combustion engines. BS-VI vehicles are designed to be significantly cleaner than their predecessors, with stricter limits on pollutant emissions. For example, petrol BS-VI vehicles must reduce NOx emissions by 25% compared to BS-IV vehicles. By mandating the use of BS-VI vehicles, Delhi can substantially reduce emissions from its large fleet of diesel and petrol vehicles, which contribute to the city's poor air quality.

Impact of Promoting Electric and BS-VI Vehicles:

The promotion of electric and BS-VI vehicles in Delhi is expected to have a positive impact on air quality. Firstly, it will reduce emissions from the transport sector, which is a significant contributor to the city's pollution. Secondly, it will help decrease the concentration of harmful particulate matter, such as PM2.5, which has severe health impacts on residents, especially children and the elderly. Finally, by improving air quality, Delhi can also improve its economic productivity, as cleaner air is associated with lower rates of absenteeism, higher consumer footfall, and increased productivity at work.

Challenges and Implementation:

While promoting electric and BS-VI vehicles is a crucial step, it also comes with challenges. One of the main obstacles is the cost associated with transitioning to electric mobility, as electric vehicles often carry a higher upfront cost compared to their conventional counterparts. Additionally, the lack of charging infrastructure in the city can deter residents from adopting electric vehicles. To address these challenges, the government can offer incentives and subsidies for the purchase of electric vehicles, as well as invest in developing a robust network of charging stations.

In conclusion, the use of electric and BS-VI vehicles is a critical strategy to control air pollution in Delhi. By encouraging the adoption of cleaner and more efficient technologies in the transport sector, the city can significantly reduce its emissions and improve the health and well-being of its residents. A combination of policy interventions, infrastructure development, and public awareness campaigns will be essential to ensure the successful implementation of this strategy.

Support government initiatives

Supporting government initiatives is crucial in the fight against air pollution in Delhi. Here are some ways in which individuals can back the government's efforts:

Follow Government Policies and Action Plans: Being aware of and adhering to government policies and action plans is essential. Stay informed about the latest guidelines and regulations implemented by the government to address air pollution. These policies often include measures such as restricting vehicle movement, banning construction activities, and implementing work-from-home or remote work arrangements to reduce traffic and emissions. By following these guidelines, individuals can actively contribute to reducing air pollution levels in Delhi.

Participate in Community Initiatives: Engage with community initiatives and programmes aimed at reducing air pollution. For example, the Indian government has launched the National Clean Air Program (NCAP), targeting 100 cities with the aim of significantly improving air quality by 2026. Participate in community meetings, workshops, or volunteer programmes that promote clean air practices and raise awareness about air pollution issues. Being an active member of such initiatives can help amplify the impact of government efforts.

Support the Development and Implementation of Real-Time Measures: The government, in collaboration with institutions like the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, is working on implementing real-time measures to mitigate and address pollution sources. Support these initiatives by providing feedback, participating in trials or pilot projects, and advocating for their widespread adoption if they prove effective. Real-time measures can include the use of advanced technologies, such as air quality monitoring systems, to identify and respond to pollution hotspots promptly.

Advocate for Stricter Air Quality Laws and Enforcement: A significant majority of Delhi's residents, 85% according to a 2020 YouGov survey, support stricter air quality laws and enforcement of policies. Join this chorus by contacting local representatives and expressing your support for stronger air pollution regulations. Encourage the government to implement and enforce laws that hold industries, vehicles, and other sources of pollution accountable for their emissions. Support policies that promote sustainable practices and penalise activities detrimental to air quality.

Stay Informed and Educate Others: Stay informed about the causes, impacts, and solutions to air pollution. Utilise resources provided by government agencies and environmental organisations to deepen your understanding of air pollution issues. Share this knowledge with your community, friends, and family to foster a collective sense of responsibility. Educate others about the small actions they can take, such as carpooling or using public transportation, to contribute to reducing air pollution. Empower those around you to make informed decisions that support government initiatives.

Frequently asked questions