Air pollution in North India has reached unprecedented levels, becoming so severe that it is now visible from space. Recent satellite images show a dense layer of smog covering cities and agricultural areas, illustrating the scale of the crisis. This development serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for collective action against environmental degradation.
Why Is Pollution So Severe?
The primary culprit is stubble burning in agricultural states such as Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. Farmers burn crop residue to prepare their fields for the next sowing season, releasing massive quantities of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) into the atmosphere. These pollutants are further compounded by emissions from vehicles, industries, and construction activities, particularly in urban hubs like Delhi and Gurugram.
Health and Economic Consequences
High levels of PM2.5 pose serious health risks, including respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Reports suggest that Delhi, which consistently tops the list of the world’s most polluted cities, experiences a significant reduction in life expectancy due to chronic exposure to polluted air. The economic cost is also staggering, with productivity losses and increased healthcare spending burdening families and governments alike.
Can Solutions Make a Difference?
While the situation is grim, solutions are emerging. Initiatives like crop residue management in Punjab and Haryana have shown promise. In these programs, farmers are encouraged to adopt sustainable practices such as in-situ decomposition of stubble. Additionally, urban measures like promoting electric vehicles, implementing stricter emissions standards, and enhancing public transport could reduce pollution levels significantly.
As air pollution continues to escalate, its visibility from space underscores the scale of this environmental disaster. The need for integrated efforts involving policymakers, industries, and citizens is more urgent than ever.
Key Highlights
- Satellite imagery reveals the alarming extent of air pollution in North India, with smog visibly blanketing vast regions.
- Major contributors include stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, coupled with vehicle emissions and industrial pollutants.
- Cities like Delhi and Kolkata consistently rank among the world’s most polluted, with PM2.5 levels far exceeding global safety standards.
- The health impacts include respiratory diseases, strokes, and reduced life expectancy.
Source:This article is based on information from NewsMobile.
