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Small Sources Fuel Delhi-NCR Air Pollution Crisis
20 Jun
Summary
- Unmitigated small sources significantly contribute to PM2.5 pollution.
- Eateries and MSMEs collectively worsen air quality due to sheer numbers.
- Existing emission inventories and clean air plans have substantial gaps.
A recent study indicates that emissions from small, unmitigated sources are a larger contributor to overall air pollution than large industries and the transport sector. This research, conducted in Varanasi and Ludhiana, reveals that numerous small eateries and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) collectively add significantly to PM2.5 pollution because they lack adequate mitigation measures.
Unmitigated fuel use, defined as combustion without pollution control devices, is prevalent in these districts. In Ludhiana, 54% of its approximately 21,000 tonnes of annual PM2.5 emissions originate from such sources. Similarly, Varanasi's 14,000 tonnes of annual PM2.5 emissions are 62% unmitigated.
These findings expose significant gaps in existing emission inventories and clean air planning. The agriculture sector also remains largely unmitigated, with sources like stubble burning and diesel-powered water pumps lacking sufficient pollution control deployment. The study provides a new framework for identifying and quantifying unmitigated fuel use, aiding policymakers.
