India started taking yearly steps on Thursday to address the hazardous air pollution in New Delhi, a megacity of 30 million people that is frequently listed as one of the most polluted capitals in the world. In winter, Delhi’s air quality deteriorates as pollutants are trapped near the ground by the chilly air. Coal-fired power stations, transportation, construction, and nearby farm stubble burning are major causes. On Wednesday, the Delhi government ordered food vendors to cease using coal or firewood and banned the burning of trash in the open. Early on Thursday, monitors found 233 micrograms per cubic metre, which is around 15 times the limit.
The air quality is expected to stay “poor” during the next few days, according to the government’s Commission for Air Quality Management. According to a 2024 study published in The Lancet Planetary Health, pollution that surpassed India’s own air quality standards was responsible for 3.8 million fatalities in the country between 2009 and 2019. Pollution levels reached a peak of 846 micrograms per cubic metre last year, which is 56 times the WHO limit. Children are more vulnerable to acute respiratory infections when they are exposed to contaminated air, according to the UN children’s agency. In an effort to reduce traffic emissions, additional restrictions, such as doubling parking costs and work-from-home options for government office employees, go into effect on November 1. From December 10 to January 20, there will be a total prohibition on building and destruction, followed by stricter construction regulations.
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