New Delhi’s toxic air pollution levels cannot be solely attributed to stubble burning, as local factors like vehicle emissions have also contributed to the alarming spike, according to a recent report. The report, conducted by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), revealed that PM2.5 levels in Delhi-NCR rose by a staggering 68% within a 24-hour period on November 2.
The analysis by CSE’s Urban Lab identified key factors behind Delhi’s toxic air. While stubble burning in north Indian states before the winter crop contributes to the pollution, meteorological factors, such as the movement of smoke to Delhi-NCR, are also responsible. However, Avikal Somvanshi, head of CSE’s Urban Lab, emphasized that the rapid increase in pollution levels is mainly due to the already high baseline pollution from local sources.
Anumita Roychowdhury, executive director of the CSE, highlighted that stubble burning only contributes around 25% to Delhi’s PM2.5 concentration, lower than previous years. She stated that internal sources of pollution, particularly vehicles, account for 50% to 60% of Delhi’s pollution levels.
The CSE report revealed that PM2.5 levels have been steadily rising since the beginning of October over the past five years. This year, the increase started in the middle of September but at a slower rate. By the end of October, the levels were 20-30% lower than the average levels for the corresponding period in previous winters.
The report also addressed the role of crop residue burning in the decline of air quality. It noted an increase in farm stubble fire count but mentioned that it is still lower than the peak levels of the previous year. The report predicts a further rise in the coming days as the instances of fires in Punjab and Haryana are yet to reach their peak.
The CSE called for immediate action to address policy gaps and achieve clean air targets. They emphasized the need for multi-sector action to reduce emissions from vehicles, industry, power plants, waste burning, construction, and dust sources. The report also stressed the importance of controlling episodic pollution factors like crop residue burning.
The Supreme Court has urged state governments to take steps to halt stubble burning. They emphasized the urgency of the situation and called for immediate action.
The CSE is a Delhi-based organization that conducts research and advocates for sustainable development. Stubble burning has long been blamed for Delhi’s deteriorating air quality during the winter months, and it has become a politically sensitive issue with states shifting blame.
