In a city notorious for its air pollution, Delhi has recently witnessed a remarkable turnaround in its air quality. For the first half of 2024, the capital recorded an impressive 128 “clean air” days, according to a report by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC). This number marks a significant improvement, with “clean air” days steadily increasing over the last few years.
Steps Behind the Clean Air Success
The primary reasons behind this improvement can be attributed to the multi-faceted approach taken by the Delhi government. Some key measures include:
- Electrification of Public Transport: The Delhi government has been rapidly expanding its fleet of electric buses. Over 3,000 electric buses are set to hit the roads in the next few years, helping to cut down emissions from public transport. Already, electric vehicles (EVs) make up over 14% of new registrations.
- Enhanced Vehicular Regulations: Strict monitoring of vehicular pollution is another key component of Delhi’s fight for cleaner air. The Transport Department has impounded over 300 vehicles that were either outdated or non-compliant with pollution standards between January and July 2024.
- Industrial and Construction Control: Industrial emissions have been closely monitored and controlled, with factories switching to cleaner fuels. Additionally, strict measures against open burning of waste and dust control at construction sites have played a significant role in reducing pollutants.
The Numbers Speak for Themselves
The data highlights that the city’s air quality is on an upward trend. From 159 “clean” days in 2018, the number jumped to 206 days in 2023. An air quality index (AQI) of zero to 50 is considered “good”, and Delhi is now seeing a marked increase in such days compared to the severe air pollution that once gripped the city, particularly during the winter months.
The Delhi government has further strengthened its commitment to improving air quality by allocating more resources towards environmental protection. By 2025, the aim is to drastically reduce pollution sources through a combination of electrification and stricter industrial controls.
Challenges Still Remain
Despite these gains, challenges remain. Delhi’s geography, vehicular growth, and the transboundary movement of pollutants from neighbouring states mean the city will need to continue its aggressive measures. However, these early results provide hope for a future where residents might breathe cleaner air year-round.
Credit: This article is based on information from Hindustan Times.
Article Summary
- Delhi recorded 128 clean air days in the first half of 2024.
- Major improvements resulted from electric vehicle adoption, stricter vehicular controls, and industrial emissions management.
- From 159 clean days in 2018, Delhi now targets over 200 clean days per year.
- Challenges remain, but the progress offers hope for sustained air quality improvements.
