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Delhi Air Soars 30x WHO Limit Amidst Smog Crisis
5 Nov
Summary
- Delhi air pollution exceeds WHO limits by over 30 times.
- Smog is worsening ahead of the Diwali festival.
- Fertilizer-induced ammonia contributes to secondary particles.
New Delhi's air quality has critically deteriorated, with pollution levels on Wednesday exceeding the World Health Organisation's recommended daily limit by more than 30 times. This alarming rise in smog occurred just three days after authorities implemented stricter measures, including traffic and construction curbs, in the metropolitan area of over 30 million people.
The situation is predicted to intensify as the Hindu festival of lights, Diwali, approaches on Sunday. Despite limited use of "green" firecrackers, restrictions are frequently disregarded, contributing to the already toxic atmosphere. PM2.5 levels, microscopic particles capable of entering the bloodstream, surpassed 461 micrograms per cubic metre in parts of the city.
Analysis indicates that vehicles are responsible for 23% of Delhi's winter pollution, while biomass burning contributes 20%, and industry adds 9%. A significant 27% originates from secondary particles, formed through atmospheric reactions of gases from various sources. The extensive use of fertilizers on fields surrounding the capital is a key factor, releasing ammonia that reacts with other pollutants to create these harmful secondary particles.
