Rapid Increase In Delhi’s Air Pollution

Pollution is an important social issue causing concern not only in India but across the world. It is caused due to human activities and natural occurrences as we know when harmful pollutants are added to our environment, this process is termed pollution. With the technological and industrial advancement along with speedy development since India’s Independence we are facing a great environmental cost.

Delhi is being tagged and considered to be one of the most heavily polluted capital cities in the world. It is the world’s worst city in terms of air pollution with harmful air which makes the surroundings toxic for both flora and fauna due to the result of human activities, whether done intentionally or unintentionally. It is known to all that Pollution from vehicles is a factor in Delhi’s pollution apart from this unlike other major cities; it is a landlocked city, with vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, and large-scale construction activities. Mainly, the city suffers from air pollution which is caused by road dust and industry, with comparatively smaller contributions from dirty engines in transportation, especially 2-wheelers and 3-wheelers with two-stroke engines, diesel-powered city buses and trucks, agricultural activities, and mining operations.

Moreover, with the growth of technological and industrial advancement air pollution in Delhi can cause several ailments, ranging from premature birth to a decrease in lung immunity. The symptoms that can be due to air pollution can cause stroke, lung cancer, heart disease, and chronic and respiratory diseases. As a whole, it may cause diseases, allergies, or even death in humans; it may also cause harm to other living organisms such as flora, fauna, and food crops.

Delhi Government has introduced CNG buses, replacing the conventional buses, use of lead-free diesel in vehicles has helped in the reduction of pollution, large scale plantation in and around Delhi has made Delhi “go green”, metro railways have been introduced for the mass rapid transport system are some of the valuable steps taken to control the pollution.

Thus, it is not that the government is not taking steps to control pollution in Delhi but we as a citizen of India should make efficient programs and policies launched by the Government because pollution in Delhi is an important social issue. Citizens can take steps to convert the garbage into compost in their localities; by planting more and more trees in every locality one can control air pollution, by using bio-degradable bags instead of using polythene bags and also abiding by the 3Rs: Recycle, Reuse, Reduce one can easily control the harmful effects of pollution.

By: Jashmeet Kaur