Hello Friends!
Today’s article primarily deals with Air-Pollution which is currently, one of the most happening Environmental issues. I have talked about Delhi’s struggle with air pollution and ways to reduce pollution in Delhi in particular and the world at large.
The Delhi government recently took an initiative-“The Odd-Even Plan” to curb emissions from vehicles in the National Capital Region of Delhi. According to this formula, odd numbered cars are allowed on odd days and even numbered cars are allowed on even days. For example, on the 19th of March, a car which has a number plate ending with an odd number will be allowed on the streets. This formula was first implemented in Beijing (China) but turned out to be unsuccessful as it encouraged people to buy more cars. However, in Delhi this formula did wonders. People accepted this graciously and adopted public transport during the time the plan was in effect. But importantly, organising these “plans” for a few days is actually of no use. We need to have long term plans to ensure that the situation gets better.
Delhi’s air is one of the most toxic in the world because of the high concentrations of Particulate Matter (PM 2.5 & 10) in the atmosphere. These substances which are suspended in the air are of great risk to humans and the ecosystems as it penetrates deeply into lungs and causes dangerous chronic respiratory diseases. A report stated that 1 out of 4 children born in Delhi suffer from a respiratory disease or have weak lungs, thanks to the toxic air we breathe in. Over the years there have been significantly higher levels of chronic headache, skin irritation and eye irritation problems.
Sadly, air pollution is killing 3.3 million people worldwide each year, and the toll is expected to get doubled by 2050.This is Alarming.
Nowadays, we all can very well notice the abnormal/peculiar behaviour of the seasons – the cycle is gradually developing clogs in its wheels; and the experts fear that disturbed balance in the biosphere can make the earth inhabitable. But it is heartening to know that the entire world is well aware of the menace. Some of the developed countries have already taken measures to meet it. If we fail to restore the ecological balance today, it would be too late tomorrow.
What is to be kept in mind is the fact that participation of the community plays a pivotal role in order to make a palpable effect in the reduction of pollution levels.
What can be done in Delhi:-
Public transport needs to be made sophisticated and its use promoted. The use of Metro rail can be promoted by increasing the frequency of Metros. Frequent checking of PUCs (Pollution Under Control Certificates) needs to be undertaken by the civic authorities to make sure that vehicles are emitting gases within permissible norms. More awareness should be spread on how energy can be saved and pollution curbed like switching-off vehicles when waiting at traffic intersections, servicing of cars regularly so that they are efficient and do not cause much pollution, etc . Moreover, the “Pull factor” needs to be addressed well. Job opportunities must be developed in the neighbouring areas so that the influx of migrants each year gets reduced and thus reduce congestion in the Capital.
Effective measures that can be all over the world:-
- The Government should make sure that future factories are set up far away from the township.
- Deforestation should be stopped and Afforestation should be promoted.
- Stricter norms/provisions/laws to protect the environment.
Thank you for sparing your time reading this article, I hope it was informative and the solutions presented effective!
Clinergy 