Context:

• This article is based on an Editorial Delhi air pollution Schools shut as air quality turns severe which was published in the BBC. The Delhi Government has shut all primary schools for two days due to worsening levels of air pollution. Air quality in the city dropped to severe levels and is expected to deteriorate further.

What is the main cause of Delhi Air Pollution?

• Delhi’s air quality turns especially toxic in winter due to various factors:
  • Burning of crop remains by farmers
  • Low wind speeds 
  • Bursting of firecrackers during festivals

Also Read: Rising Stubble Fires in Punjab: Urgent Solutions Needed

Delhi Air Pollution – Severe Impacts on Health is a Concerning Challenge

• Polluted air causes severe health issues to Delhi residents every year.
• Impact on Lungs: The concentration of PM2.5 – fine particulate matter that can clog lungs and cause various diseases.
• Diseases: Health professionals are reporting increasing cases of asthma and lung issues among children and the elderly because of the worsening air quality.

What steps has the Government taken to reduce Delhi Air Pollution?

• Ban on Non-Essential Construction Work: As per the third phase of its Graded Response Action Plan, to combat effects of increased pollution, a central pollution control panel ordered an immediate ban on non-essential construction work in the city.
• Increase in the Frequency of Public Transportation: In the second phase, all public transport services, including the Delhi metro and electric bus services, had been instructed to increase their frequency to curb vehicle emissions.
• Ban on Firecrackers: Last month, the Delhi government placed a comprehensive ban on the manufacture, sale, and use of firecrackers within the city. 

Also Read: Winter Action Plan For Delhi Air Pollution

Conclusion:

The Government needs to take appropriate steps for permanent resolution of such yearly pollution as it’s the duty of the state too to provide a healthy environment as under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, Right to Life and personal liberty is a fundamental right and the Right to Health is inherent under Right to Life.