Delhi Air Pollution 2024: 10 Effective Solutions to Tackle the Toxic Crisis

Delhi Air Pollution 2024: 10 Effective Solutions to Tackle the Toxic Crisis

Delhi’s air pollution is a serious problem, which increases every year in winter. Even in 2024, the situation remains alarming, and the pollution level has led to several health problems. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Delhi’s air quality drops below standard levels at times, increasing the risk of respiratory diseases and other health issues.

The Delhi government has announced several measures to control pollution. One of the major initiatives is the 21-point Winter Action Plan, which focuses on controlling emissions from stubble burning, construction work, and vehicles. Here we will discuss 10 effective solutions to tackle this crisis:

Support and awareness of stubble management

Every year, farmers in Punjab and Haryana burn stubble after harvesting, which is a major cause of pollution in Delhi. To address this problem, the government has decided to provide subsidy and technical support to farmers for stubble management. Under this, alternative crops, organic manure and machinery are being encouraged to increase use.

• Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)
  When the air quality in Delhi-NCR deteriorates, action is taken at various levels under GRAP. For example, when the pollution level becomes severe, entry of trucks is banned, construction work is restricted and dust control measures are implemented at construction sites.
• Promotion of e-vehicles
  Electric vehicles (EV) are being encouraged in Delhi. The government has offered subsidy on buying EVs, so that people choose e-vehicles instead of petrol-diesel vehicles. This will help in reducing pollution.
• Use of carpooling and public transport
  It is important to encourage people to use public transport and carpooling. This will not only reduce the number of vehicles but will also reduce traffic congestion on the roads. Efforts are being made by the government to further improve metro and bus services.
• Proper management of waste
  Burning garbage in the open and improper disposal of plastic is also a major reason for increasing pollution. Strict laws are required for this. The government will have to take concrete steps towards proper management and recycling of waste.
• Improvement in environmental monitoring
  Correct data is needed to overcome air pollution. For this, the number of pollution measuring sensors is being increased, so that the status of air quality can be known in real time and action can be taken accordingly.
• Control over construction activities
  Dust flying from construction sites is a major cause of air pollution. For this, strict adherence to rules and use of anti-smog guns is necessary. Construction sites need to be monitored regularly
• Use of face masks and air purifiers
  During severe levels of pollution in Delhi, people are advised to wear N95 masks and use air purifiers in homes. This measure can help in keeping health safe
• Public awareness campaigns
  It is necessary to make people aware to fight pollution. Under this, campaigns should be run in schools, colleges and communities to increase awareness about the ill effects of pollution. All sections of the society should be motivated to participate in this issue

Tree plantation and green belt development:

• Tree plantation and green belt development are extremely important for the protection and improvement of the natural environment. In developing countries like India, where urbanization and industrialization are increasing rapidly, it has become necessary to expand green spaces in urban areas through tree plantation. Here we will discuss the importance, benefits and development measures of tree plantation and green belt.

Importance of tree plantation

• Atmospheric balance: Trees absorb carbon dioxide and emit oxygen, which helps in maintaining the balance of the atmosphere. It plays an important role in reducing air pollution
• Fight against climate change**: Tree plantation is helpful in controlling climate change. It not only reduces greenhouse gases but also helps in maintaining soil moisture and reduces the risk of floods.
• Protection of ecosystem: Trees provide habitat for various organisms, thereby increasing biodiversity. Development of green belts helps in protecting animals, birds and other organisms.
• Development of green belts not only beautifies urban areas, but it also provides several environmental benefits:
• Reducing urban heat: Green belts help reduce urban heat, which keeps temperatures moderate in summers. The shade of trees reduces temperature, which also reduces energy consumption.
• Reduction in noise pollution: Green belts absorb sound, which reduces noise pollution in urban areas. It is also beneficial for mental health.
• Controlling water waste: Green belts absorb water, which leads to water harvesting and reduces the risk of floods. It also helps in maintaining groundwater levels.
• Initiatives and programmes for tree planting and green belt development: Many state governments are encouraging tree planting programmes, such as “Hariyali Diwas” or “Gaura Parv”. In these campaigns, people are encouraged to plant trees.
• Community involvement: It is important to involve local communities in tree planting. Organizing tree plantation programs in schools and colleges increases awareness among the youth and motivates them to protect the environment.
• Use of technology: Tree plantation can be made faster and effective by using drones and other technologies. These help in planting trees in large areas at a faster pace.
• Private sector support: Companies can also participate in it under corporate social responsibility (CSR). It is not only good for the environment but also improves their image.

Conclusion

• Tree plantation and development of green belts not only helps in reducing pollution but is also an effective measure to preserve the environment and tackle climate change. This is possible only with the cooperation of all sections of the society, government, and the community. Tree plantation should be made a continuous effort to protect the environment. Along with this, we need to increase awareness in this direction so that the coming generations can enjoy a healthy and green future

Air pollution in Delhi is a serious challenge, but by implementing the above solutions we can be successful in dealing with this crisis. It is necessary that all stakeholders, such as the government, industry, and citizens, work together in this direction. We all need to be proactive and vigilant before the increasing levels of pollution in winter. Only this collective fight against pollution can provide us with a healthy and safe environment.

“स्वच्छ हवा, स्वस्थ जीवन!”

“हर सांस में बसा है पर्यावरण, चलो मिलकर करें इसकी रक्षा!”

“वृक्ष लगाओ, प्रदूषण मिटाओ!”

“बचाओ पृथ्वी, बचाओ हवा, हर जन है हमारी जिम्मेदारी!”