Why does air pollution in Delhi become a public health emergency in winter?

Winter conditions like low temperatures, high humidity, and temperature inversions trap pollutants near the surface, exacerbating Delhi's air quality issues.

What are the limitations of India's air pollution control bodies like CAQM?

Bodies like CAQM are often criticized for reactive approaches, imposing bans during crises, and facing fragmented implementation due to reliance on various state and municipal authorities.

How can green belts help manage air pollution in regions like Delhi-NCR?

Green belts, such as the Aravalli range and urban parks, act as natural barriers, absorb pollutants, regulate temperature, and prevent dust dispersion, significantly improving air quality.

Home / Environment / India's Air Crisis: Reactive Measures Fail

India's Air Crisis: Reactive Measures Fail

12 Jan

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Summary

India's annual AQI in Delhi exceeds national and WHO targets.
Winter conditions and geography worsen Delhi's air pollution.
China and London offer lessons in long-term air pollution control.

India's Air Crisis: Reactive Measures Fail

Air pollution remains a critical issue in India, with Delhi-NCR consistently recording some of the world's worst AQI levels. Annual averages in Delhi between 2015 and November 2025 have been 235, significantly surpassing national and WHO guidelines. This deterioration is driven by a mix of factors including stubble burning, industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and biomass burning, which intensify during winter due to temperature inversions.

Despite a legal framework for pollution control, India's approach has largely been reactive, marked by emergency measures rather than long-term structural reforms. Initiatives like the Revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) and stricter emission checks are implemented when pollution peaks. However, international examples from Beijing and London highlight the success of systemic governance failures, stringent emission standards, clean energy promotion, and comprehensive regulatory interventions.