Delhi has once again found itself engulfed in a thick layer of toxic air, as pollution levels soar beyond the acceptable limits. The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has crossed the 400 mark, indicating a hazardous level of pollution that has made it difficult for residents to breathe. For years, Delhi has been grappling with severe air pollution, particularly during the winter months when the air becomes even more toxic due to the burning of crop stubble, vehicular emissions, and industrial activities. With schools shut and residents advised to stay indoors, the question arises: Can a lockdown alone solve Delhi’s pollution problem?

The Temporary Relief of Lockdowns

During the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, Delhi experienced a temporary improvement in air quality, with the PM 2.5 levels dropping significantly. For instance, in Anand Vihar, the PM 2.5 levels plummeted from over 300 to 101 in just the first 21 days of the lockdown. This resulted in cleaner air, clearer skies, and a drastic reduction in pollution, not only in terms of air quality but also water and noise pollution. However, experts agree that a lockdown is only a temporary solution and not a long-term fix for Delhi’s pollution woes.

Experts’ Opinion: Lockdown Isn’t the Solution

Dr. Shuchin Bajaj, Founder of Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, stated that while a lockdown can momentarily reduce pollution, it does not address the root causes. He cited historical examples like the 1950 Great Smog of London, where thousands died due to pollution but no lockdown was imposed. Instead, the British government took more drastic measures. Dr. Bajaj emphasized that Delhi needs political will and targeted action to combat pollution, rather than relying on short-term solutions like lockdowns.

Dr. Shamit Gupta, Medical Director of Amritdhara Hospital in Karnal, echoed similar sentiments, explaining that lockdowns would not resolve the ongoing contributors to pollution, such as emissions from vehicles, construction activities, and industrial waste. He stressed the importance of understanding the specific sectors that contribute to pollution in the city and setting clear goals to tackle each one effectively.

The Real Solutions: Long-Term Strategies

While lockdowns may offer temporary relief, the long-term solutions to Delhi’s pollution crisis lie in sustainable measures that can reduce emissions and promote clean energy. Here are some potential solutions to address the problem:

1. Promotion of Public Transport:
   Improving public transportation infrastructure is crucial in reducing the number of private vehicles on the roads, which are a major source of pollution. Accessible, efficient, and affordable public transport will encourage more people to use it, reducing traffic congestion and emissions.
2. Switching to Electric Vehicles (EVs):
   Encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles can significantly reduce the reliance on petrol and diesel cars. The government must strengthen the charging infrastructure and raise awareness about the environmental and health benefits of electric vehicles.
3. Strict Enforcement of Pollution Control Measures:
   The government must implement and enforce strict penalties for those violating pollution control norms, particularly in industries and transportation. Regular monitoring and stricter compliance with environmental laws are essential.
4. Political Will and Public Awareness:
   Just like London, Delhi can overcome its pollution problem, but it requires strong political will and concerted efforts. Dr. Bajaj suggested that air pollution should become a central issue in upcoming elections to prioritize it as a matter of public health and environmental sustainability.

International Examples of Success

Dr. Bajaj highlighted the success of Beijing, China, in addressing its pollution crisis. Ten years ago, Beijing faced similar air quality challenges, with AQI levels crossing 100. However, after implementing a comprehensive plan in 2013, including stricter emissions controls, cleaner energy sources, and urban planning measures, Beijing succeeded in lowering its AQI to around 30 by 2022. This example proves that it is possible to improve air quality significantly with a long-term, sustainable plan.

Conclusion

While lockdowns may offer a brief respite from pollution, they are not the ultimate solution for Delhi’s chronic air quality issues. To tackle the problem effectively, a comprehensive and sustainable approach is required, involving better public transportation, adoption of electric vehicles, stricter enforcement of pollution control measures, and strong political commitment. Only through a multi-pronged strategy can Delhi hope to breathe easier in the future.

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The government’s agenda includes not only finishing projects stalled due to funding issues in the past but also launching new initiatives to attract tourists from around the country and beyond. Minister for Municipal Administration and Urban Development, P Narayana, recently convened a meeting with officials from Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) and Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) to discuss the roadmap for these projects.

During the meeting, Minister Narayana emphasized the importance of projects that directly benefit the residents of Visakhapatnam. He tasked officials with preparing detailed reports and proposals to ensure the successful implementation of the government’s vision. Key topics of discussion included building permits, road expansions, property protection, urban planning, and addressing unauthorized constructions.

The GVMC has already embarked on several projects under public-private partnerships, ranging from floating solar installations to flyover constructions aimed at easing traffic congestion. Additionally, plans are in motion to establish modern sports facilities to engage the city’s youth and promote a healthy lifestyle.

In line with environmental sustainability goals, the government is committed to setting up electric vehicle charging stations across the district to support the growth of e-vehicles and reduce pollution. The State government’s broader agenda encompasses the development of a revised master plan for 2047, sewage treatment plants, advanced water supply systems, and smart city initiatives to propel Visakhapatnam into a new era of urban excellence.

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