Tests carried out on more than 100 sea turtles in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans and the Mediterranean Sea revealed they all had microplastics in their stomachs, according to a study published on Wednesday.

"Ingestion of plastics is not the main threat to the species, but its presence in every turtle is a concern," said James Cook University (JCU) Associate Professor and study researcher Mark Hamman.

The scientists found more than 800 synthetic particles in the 102 turtles analyzed, but their number could be 20 times greater since they only analyzed part of the stomach of these animals, according to a statement from the JCU.

The turtles with the most synthetic particles were in the Mediterranean, according to the study published in the journal Global Change Biology and led by researchers from the University of Exeter and Plymouth Marine Laboratory, in collaboration with the Greenpeace Research Laboratories.

Hamman said the effects on turtles of ingesting microplastics are unknown but said the youngest turtles would be the most vulnerable.

Microplastics come from larger items such as bags or bottles, from microbeads in exfoliating creams, gels, toothpaste and detergents, or from fibers in clothing, tires, cigarette filters and fishing nets. They are so small that they cannot be removed by water treatment.

"Their small size means they can pass through the gut without causing a blockage, as is frequently reported with larger plastic fragments,” said Dr Emily Duncan from the University of Exeter.

"They may possibly carry contaminants, bacteria or viruses, or they may affect the turtle at a cellular or subcellular level," the biologist added.

Experts still don't know how these synthetic particles get into turtles, although the likely sources are polluted seawater and sediments, and eating via prey or plants.

According to the United Nations, eight million tons of plastic are dumped into the oceans each year, threatening marine and human life and destroying natural ecosystems.

Tests carried out on more than 100 sea turtles in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans and the Mediterranean Sea revealed they all had microplastics in their stomachs, according to a study published on Wednesday.

Tests carried out on more than 100 sea turtles in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans and the Mediterranean Sea revealed they all had microplastics in their stomachs, according to a study published on Wednesday. "Ingestion of plastics is not the main threat to the species, but its presence in every turtle is a concern," said James Cook University (JCU) Associate Professor and study researcher Mark Hamman. The scientists found more than 800 synthetic particles in the 102 turtles analyzed, but their number could be 20 times greater since they only analyzed part of the stomach of these animals, according to a statement from the JCU. The turtles with the most synthetic particles were in the Mediterranean, according to the study published in the journal Global Change Biology and led by researchers from the University of Exeter and Plymouth Marine Laboratory, in collaboration with the Greenpeace Research Laboratories. Hamman said the effects on turtles of ingesting microplastics are unknown but said the youngest turtles would be the most vulnerable. Microplastics come from larger items such as bags or bottles, from microbeads in exfoliating creams, gels, toothpaste and detergents, or from fibers in clothing, tires, cigarette filters and fishing nets. They are so small that they cannot be removed by water treatment. "Their small size means they can pass through the gut without causing a blockage, as is frequently reported with larger plastic fragments,” said Dr Emily Duncan from the University of Exeter. "They may possibly carry contaminants, bacteria or viruses, or they may affect the turtle at a cellular or subcellular level," the biologist added. Experts still don't know how these synthetic particles get into turtles, although the likely sources are polluted seawater and sediments, and eating via prey or plants. According to the United Nations, eight million tons of plastic are dumped into the oceans each year, threatening marine and human life and destroying natural ecosystems.

Study finds microplastics in all sea turtle species

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has imposed a fine of Rs 25 crore on the government of Delhi for failing to curb the problem of pollution in the capital city, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

According to reports, the fine is to be deducted from the salary of Delhi government officials and those polluting the environment.&nbsp;

"If Delhi government fails to pay the fine, it'll have to pay a fine of Rs.10 crore per month," ANI reported.&nbsp;

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NGT has imposed a fine of Rs.25 cr on Delhi Govt for failing to curb the problem of pollution in capital city. This is to be deducted from salary of Delhi Govt officials&amp;ppl polluting environment. If Delhi Govt fails to pay the fine, it'll have to pay a fine of Rs.10 cr per month <a href="https://t.co/40mcTfqHx0">pic.twitter.com/40mcTfqHx0</a>
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The air quality in Delhi/NCR has seen a dipping trend in the past month with most areas recording 'poor' to 'very poor' air quality.&nbsp;

The alarmingly high rates of air pollution in the national capital have raised great concerns for the people as well as the state administration. The present levels of particulate matter in the atmosphere are sufficient to contribute towards depleting health standards and high level of toxicity in the air with dangerous gasses.

According to the Centre-run &nbsp;System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the Air Quality Index of the capital on Saturday morning was recorded 346, falling in the 'very poor' category.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has imposed a fine of Rs 25 crore on the government of Delhi for failing to curb the problem of pollution in the capital city, news agency ANI reported.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has imposed a fine of Rs 25 crore on the government of Delhi for failing to curb the problem of pollution in the capital city, news agency ANI reported. According to reports, the fine is to be deducted from the salary of Delhi government officials and those polluting the environment. "If Delhi government fails to pay the fine, it'll have to pay a fine of Rs.10 crore per month," ANI reported. NGT has imposed a fine of Rs.25 cr on Delhi Govt for failing to curb the problem of pollution in capital city. This is to be deducted from salary of Delhi Govt officials&ppl polluting environment. If Delhi Govt fails to pay the fine, it'll have to pay a fine of Rs.10 cr per month pic.twitter.com/40mcTfqHx0 — ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2018 × The air quality in Delhi/NCR has seen a dipping trend in the past month with most areas recording 'poor' to 'very poor' air quality. The alarmingly high rates of air pollution in the national capital have raised great concerns for the people as well as the state administration. The present levels of particulate matter in the atmosphere are sufficient to contribute towards depleting health standards and high level of toxicity in the air with dangerous gasses. According to the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the Air Quality Index of the capital on Saturday morning was recorded 346, falling in the 'very poor' category.

National Green Tribunal slaps Rs 25 crore fine on Delhi government over air pollution 

Soon after Diwali, Chhath puja was celebrated by people from Bihar and Jharkhand. The main religious ritual involves making offerings to the rising and setting sun, &nbsp;from the banks of a river. &nbsp;Like every year, hundreds of people from these eastern states gathered on the banks of various rivers in north India, including the Hindon, a tributary of the Yamuna. The Hindon originates in the lower Himalayas and flows through Meerut, Ghaziabad, Noida and Greater Noida before joining the Yamuna just outside Delhi. The Hindon has great significance in Indian history and culture as a site of the Indus Valley Civilization, Alamgirpur, lies on its banks. In the Mahabharat, the lac palace which the wily Kauravas had lured the Pandavas into in a ploy to burn them alive, lies in a place called Varnavat (now Barnava) in Baghpat district.&nbsp;

But looking at the froth in the polluted waters of this ancient river, no one can tell its cultural significance. The Ghaziabad district administration, &nbsp;the municipal authorities of the city and the Central minister of state General VK Singh (who is an MP from Ghaziabad) had promised people that the Hindon would be cleaned up before Chhath puja. However, that turned out to be yet another empty promise by the state. Some piecemeal efforts were made to release water into the Hindon but the problem runs much deeper as hundreds of litres of sewage water and garbage from the city is dumped into it. Essentially, once again, hundreds of Chhath puja devotees stood in highly polluted waters of the Hindon. A few years ago there were pictures of a red Hindon on social media as illegal stone crushing units had dumped their waste into the river with impunity. In 2016, some villages in Baghpat district of UP had decided not to vote in the 2017 assembly elections in protest as the unimaginable pollution of the Hindon was resulting in more cancers and neurological diseases than the people had ever experienced.

The environmental activist GD Agarwal or Swami Sanand died earlier this month due to fasting in protest against the government’s inaction on cleaning up the Ganga. The river was so dear to this civil engineer- activist monk, that he spent much of his long life fighting to save the Ganga from man-made projects that would hamper the river’s uninterrupted flow in the upper reaches. In the flurry of Bollywood weddings and other meaningless WhatsApp forwards, the news of his death and the cause he stood for barely registered with the masses. However, a consortium of seven non-profit organisations which have been organizing an annual event called India Rivers Week, which ends on November 26, dedicated this year to the late activist. &nbsp;The main question being asked is, despite the decades that have passed since efforts to clean up and revive the Ganga, and the several hundred crores that have since been spent, why is the state of the Ganga worse than it ever was, and how can this issue be solved?

The pollution of the Ganges from Rishikesh right until Diamond Harbour, near Kolkata, is an issue that has got the attention of the world, even though nothing dramatic has happened to control it. But it is almost impossible to find an Indian river which is unpolluted for most of its journey. In its latest study, the Central Pollution Control Board discovered that the number of polluted rivers in India has risen from 121 to 275 over the past five years. Tamil Nadu is fighting Karnataka not only over the Cauvery’s waters but also for polluting the river with industrial effluents even before it enters Tamil Nadu. Cauvery water which was the main drinking water source for lakhs of people, is now toxic beyond safe limits.

Ramaswamy Iyer, an expert on Indian rivers, having been secretary at the Ministry of Water Resources and author of India’s first National Water Policy in 1987 attributes near death of India’s once great rivers not just to heavy pollution but also to other factors like violence to their physical components such as the river-bed, banks and floodplains. The underlying cause, he says, is a poor understanding of what constitutes a river and the deeply flawed attitudes and approaches towards rivers and the environment in general. Every river in India, except the Brahmaputra, is a female and has significance in Hindu epics and scriptures. Just as women are worshipped as devis and abused like nowhere else, rivers are worshipped as bountiful mothers (Ganga maiyya, for example) &nbsp;but havoc is wreaked on them. This election season, voters need to realise that the only religious issue that matters is the downright insult to our river goddesses happening across the country. 
 
(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-india-s-once-great-rivers-are-victims-of-ecological-violence-2689285">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Soon after Diwali, Chhath puja was celebrated by people from Bihar and Jharkhand. The main religious ritual involves making offerings to the rising and setting sun, from the banks of a river.

Soon after Diwali, Chhath puja was celebrated by people from Bihar and Jharkhand. The main religious ritual involves making offerings to the rising and setting sun, from the banks of a river. Like every year, hundreds of people from these eastern states gathered on the banks of various rivers in north India, including the Hindon, a tributary of the Yamuna. The Hindon originates in the lower Himalayas and flows through Meerut, Ghaziabad, Noida and Greater Noida before joining the Yamuna just outside Delhi. The Hindon has great significance in Indian history and culture as a site of the Indus Valley Civilization, Alamgirpur, lies on its banks. In the Mahabharat, the lac palace which the wily Kauravas had lured the Pandavas into in a ploy to burn them alive, lies in a place called Varnavat (now Barnava) in Baghpat district. But looking at the froth in the polluted waters of this ancient river, no one can tell its cultural significance. The Ghaziabad district administration, the municipal authorities of the city and the Central minister of state General VK Singh (who is an MP from Ghaziabad) had promised people that the Hindon would be cleaned up before Chhath puja. However, that turned out to be yet another empty promise by the state. Some piecemeal efforts were made to release water into the Hindon but the problem runs much deeper as hundreds of litres of sewage water and garbage from the city is dumped into it. Essentially, once again, hundreds of Chhath puja devotees stood in highly polluted waters of the Hindon. A few years ago there were pictures of a red Hindon on social media as illegal stone crushing units had dumped their waste into the river with impunity. In 2016, some villages in Baghpat district of UP had decided not to vote in the 2017 assembly elections in protest as the unimaginable pollution of the Hindon was resulting in more cancers and neurological diseases than the people had ever experienced. The environmental activist GD Agarwal or Swami Sanand died earlier this month due to fasting in protest against the government’s inaction on cleaning up the Ganga. The river was so dear to this civil engineer- activist monk, that he spent much of his long life fighting to save the Ganga from man-made projects that would hamper the river’s uninterrupted flow in the upper reaches. In the flurry of Bollywood weddings and other meaningless WhatsApp forwards, the news of his death and the cause he stood for barely registered with the masses. However, a consortium of seven non-profit organisations which have been organizing an annual event called India Rivers Week, which ends on November 26, dedicated this year to the late activist. The main question being asked is, despite the decades that have passed since efforts to clean up and revive the Ganga, and the several hundred crores that have since been spent, why is the state of the Ganga worse than it ever was, and how can this issue be solved? The pollution of the Ganges from Rishikesh right until Diamond Harbour, near Kolkata, is an issue that has got the attention of the world, even though nothing dramatic has happened to control it. But it is almost impossible to find an Indian river which is unpolluted for most of its journey. In its latest study, the Central Pollution Control Board discovered that the number of polluted rivers in India has risen from 121 to 275 over the past five years. Tamil Nadu is fighting Karnataka not only over the Cauvery’s waters but also for polluting the river with industrial effluents even before it enters Tamil Nadu. Cauvery water which was the main drinking water source for lakhs of people, is now toxic beyond safe limits. Ramaswamy Iyer, an expert on Indian rivers, having been secretary at the Ministry of Water Resources and author of India’s first National Water Policy in 1987 attributes near death of India’s once great rivers not just to heavy pollution but also to other factors like violence to their physical components such as the river-bed, banks and floodplains. The underlying cause, he says, is a poor understanding of what constitutes a river and the deeply flawed attitudes and approaches towards rivers and the environment in general. Every river in India, except the Brahmaputra, is a female and has significance in Hindu epics and scriptures. Just as women are worshipped as devis and abused like nowhere else, rivers are worshipped as bountiful mothers (Ganga maiyya, for example) but havoc is wreaked on them. This election season, voters need to realise that the only religious issue that matters is the downright insult to our river goddesses happening across the country. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

India’s once great rivers are victims of ecological violence

Diwali was celebrated this year. Surely with a Supreme Court's order for bursting of crackers between 8-10 PM. Indeed agitated and concerned was Honorable Supreme Court with the growing levels of pollution in the country overall and particularly in Delhi. It is a matter of concern which is not just agitating everyone but also affecting everyone's health. Especially the children growing up in Delhi are most vulnerable. I do not want to pass on any comment on Supreme Court's order. They adjudicated on whatever was the issue arraigned before them. We should respect the order.

Delhi of an earlier era

Let me share with the readers that I am a Delhite to the core I was born in Connaught Place, and have grown up and lived in South Delhi most part of my life except for brief interludes of living in the UK and Mumbai. The Delhi I grew up was the Delhi of 1970s and 1980s and the air was much purer in Delhi those days.

Pollution was not known to us as children except a pun here or a jest there when someone farted. That was the only pollution we knew as children and youth. It was also related to lifestyles. Notwithstanding all the negative connotation of DTU (Don't Trust Us) or DTC (Disgraceful Transport Confusion), people overall were using these public transport as a primary mode of intra-city commute. Scooters were a rarity and cars were deemed elitist.

Increasing pollution in Delhi

However, the growth of the vehicle population has indeed grown by leaps and bounds in the last two decades which as a consequence has given rise to increasing pollution in our Delhi. A young scientist, Ms. Anumita Roychowdhury, of the Centre for Science and Environment has done real time and highly creditable work on this with an attendant crisis like shrinking public spaces due to parking, impact on public health etc. She really deserves kudos for this and her work has created awareness in the government circles to address the concerns. Both the Government of Delhi and the Government of India have been flagged because of this work and have calibrated several measures in combating this. But the sheer numbers are a matter of concern, which is becoming insurmountable for any counter measures to really have an impact.

Venom multiplier 
 
Leaving the vehicular pollution behind, we are also concerned with pollution on account of several other factors like industrial pollution and illegal factories and dyeing units operating from households, on which the judiciary has indeed given appropriate directions from time to time. But one factor which generally leads to pollution during Diwali time is the stubble burning in the states of Punjab and Haryana. This results in air quality being rendered extremely poor. This, in turn, leads to a situation of Diwali crackers being a venom multiplier. It is this which I seek to examine and put in perspective.

Was there stubble burning hitherto?

As already recalled, I have been living in Delhi for one year short of six decades. This has endowed me with the opportunity to travel into nearby and neighbouring states like UP, Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan on quite a few occasions in different stages of life. I can say for sure that hitherto this trend of stubble burning was never in vogue. It was not even a known phenomenon. May also say for sure that during my travel in the hinterland areas neighbouring Delhi, it was not just sightseeing but I also had this opportunity to interact with the local rural populace, and I never once heard even a mention of stubble burning. Only recently has this practice begun amongst the farming community of northern India.

Agrarian practices in other regions

Let me also share with you experiences I have had with farmers of other regions of the country with whom I have had an opportunity to interact during these years. As an officer of the Ministry of Textiles, I had the opportunity to speak to inhabitants of Naupatna in Odisha. The vocation of the people here are farming and handloom weaving to supplement their income. While partaking of their excellent food I had in January 2016 ascertained what crops they grow. They informed that while paddy is a primary crop, the second crop was pulses, vegetables, etc.

Again in April 2016, I had this opportunity to travel to hinterland of West Bengal from a handloom cluster in Fulia and Shantipur to Murshidabad handloom cluster. Handloom weaving is closely intertwined with the agrarian economy and here too the interaction with local inhabitants revealed that they generally grow paddy as the primary crop with a large platter of very exotic rural vegetables (contrary to myth, Bengalis consume many varieties of vegetables which are known only in the Southern and Eastern parts of the country).

Further recently, I travelled to Tamil Nadu, where again my journey took me from Madurai to Dindigul, Natham, Sivagangai, Pillaiyarpatti, Rameswaram, Tirunelveli, Sankarankoil, Srivilliputhur, Satthur, and back to Madurai. I interacted intensively with local inhabitants. Being able to speak Tamil, I was at a distinct advantage of striking a chord with them. I was told by the farming community that they have two crops namely paddy being the primary one while the other being bananas, coconuts, palm, mangoes, etc.

Now, in all these interactions I sought to know what they do after harvest of the first crop before sowing the second. They all responded uniformly that they plough the land to make it ready for next crop. When asked about the residue of the previous crop again there was a common response that the residue acts as a nutrient ('satthu' as told in Tamil to be me by a farmer).

Let me make one thing clear, that this is based on my interaction with farmers and not any laboratory findings of any scientific data. But one thing was clear, no one said that they burn the stubble. I was little surprised. It may surprise many that two decades back no one had heard of any phenomenon called stubble burning even in the North Indian states of Punjab and Haryana. An Agricultural Extension Officer would be able to confirm this. Stubble burning was known in certain pockets resorting to jhum cultivation, but that was a phenomenon in certain pockets and scientists were working for this practice to end.

When did it start in food bowl of India?

The next question is when and where did this stubble burning begin? Who introduced this phenomenon? Was it an endeavour to alter the agrarian practices? Was there a hidden agenda to make gullible farmers contribute to the destabilisation of the economy of the country?

Make no mistake, this phenomenon has been introduced in two states which were the food bowl of the nation. One of them is a border area which had seen militancy affecting its agrarian economy for two decades not very far back. There are many for whom the wounds of militancy are still to heal.

Is it an attempt at destabilisation?

Also, recent attacks on Nirankari Bhavan in Rajsansi near Amritstar does reveal the unholy involvement of ISI through al Qaeda in these attacks. Not just that Gurdaspur (Pathankot), drug menace and such other dysfunctional events in recent past do have the ISI's stamp. Is the ISI, which is latently active through its sleeper cells in Punjab, also seeking to alter agrarian practices to discredit the farmers of Punjab in nation's eyes and foist disaffection in the state?

Indeed, their previous endeavour of destabilising the Indian economy through Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICNs) got a setback due to demonetisation. Is the ISI peddling an alternative endeavour? One possible method which could prove as litmus test for this could be to check whether the farming community in Pakistan on other side of Punjab indulges in stubble burning after harvest of a crop. We need to find the truth and combat the same.

(This article was originally published on Zee News. Read the <a href="http://zeenews.india.com/blogs/beyond-air-pollution-is-there-more-to-stubble-burning-than-meets-the-eye-2157663.html">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Diwali was celebrated this year. Surely with a Supreme Court's order for bursting of crackers between 8-10 PM. Indeed agitated and concerned was Honorable Supreme Court with the growing levels of pollution in the country overall and particularly in Delhi.

Diwali was celebrated this year. Surely with a Supreme Court's order for bursting of crackers between 8-10 PM. Indeed agitated and concerned was Honorable Supreme Court with the growing levels of pollution in the country overall and particularly in Delhi. It is a matter of concern which is not just agitating everyone but also affecting everyone's health. Especially the children growing up in Delhi are most vulnerable. I do not want to pass on any comment on Supreme Court's order. They adjudicated on whatever was the issue arraigned before them. We should respect the order. Delhi of an earlier era Let me share with the readers that I am a Delhite to the core I was born in Connaught Place, and have grown up and lived in South Delhi most part of my life except for brief interludes of living in the UK and Mumbai. The Delhi I grew up was the Delhi of 1970s and 1980s and the air was much purer in Delhi those days. Pollution was not known to us as children except a pun here or a jest there when someone farted. That was the only pollution we knew as children and youth. It was also related to lifestyles. Notwithstanding all the negative connotation of DTU (Don't Trust Us) or DTC (Disgraceful Transport Confusion), people overall were using these public transport as a primary mode of intra-city commute. Scooters were a rarity and cars were deemed elitist. Increasing pollution in Delhi However, the growth of the vehicle population has indeed grown by leaps and bounds in the last two decades which as a consequence has given rise to increasing pollution in our Delhi. A young scientist, Ms. Anumita Roychowdhury, of the Centre for Science and Environment has done real time and highly creditable work on this with an attendant crisis like shrinking public spaces due to parking, impact on public health etc. She really deserves kudos for this and her work has created awareness in the government circles to address the concerns. Both the Government of Delhi and the Government of India have been flagged because of this work and have calibrated several measures in combating this. But the sheer numbers are a matter of concern, which is becoming insurmountable for any counter measures to really have an impact. Venom multiplier Leaving the vehicular pollution behind, we are also concerned with pollution on account of several other factors like industrial pollution and illegal factories and dyeing units operating from households, on which the judiciary has indeed given appropriate directions from time to time. But one factor which generally leads to pollution during Diwali time is the stubble burning in the states of Punjab and Haryana. This results in air quality being rendered extremely poor. This, in turn, leads to a situation of Diwali crackers being a venom multiplier. It is this which I seek to examine and put in perspective. Was there stubble burning hitherto? As already recalled, I have been living in Delhi for one year short of six decades. This has endowed me with the opportunity to travel into nearby and neighbouring states like UP, Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan on quite a few occasions in different stages of life. I can say for sure that hitherto this trend of stubble burning was never in vogue. It was not even a known phenomenon. May also say for sure that during my travel in the hinterland areas neighbouring Delhi, it was not just sightseeing but I also had this opportunity to interact with the local rural populace, and I never once heard even a mention of stubble burning. Only recently has this practice begun amongst the farming community of northern India. Agrarian practices in other regions Let me also share with you experiences I have had with farmers of other regions of the country with whom I have had an opportunity to interact during these years. As an officer of the Ministry of Textiles, I had the opportunity to speak to inhabitants of Naupatna in Odisha. The vocation of the people here are farming and handloom weaving to supplement their income. While partaking of their excellent food I had in January 2016 ascertained what crops they grow. They informed that while paddy is a primary crop, the second crop was pulses, vegetables, etc. Again in April 2016, I had this opportunity to travel to hinterland of West Bengal from a handloom cluster in Fulia and Shantipur to Murshidabad handloom cluster. Handloom weaving is closely intertwined with the agrarian economy and here too the interaction with local inhabitants revealed that they generally grow paddy as the primary crop with a large platter of very exotic rural vegetables (contrary to myth, Bengalis consume many varieties of vegetables which are known only in the Southern and Eastern parts of the country). Further recently, I travelled to Tamil Nadu, where again my journey took me from Madurai to Dindigul, Natham, Sivagangai, Pillaiyarpatti, Rameswaram, Tirunelveli, Sankarankoil, Srivilliputhur, Satthur, and back to Madurai. I interacted intensively with local inhabitants. Being able to speak Tamil, I was at a distinct advantage of striking a chord with them. I was told by the farming community that they have two crops namely paddy being the primary one while the other being bananas, coconuts, palm, mangoes, etc. Now, in all these interactions I sought to know what they do after harvest of the first crop before sowing the second. They all responded uniformly that they plough the land to make it ready for next crop. When asked about the residue of the previous crop again there was a common response that the residue acts as a nutrient ('satthu' as told in Tamil to be me by a farmer). Let me make one thing clear, that this is based on my interaction with farmers and not any laboratory findings of any scientific data. But one thing was clear, no one said that they burn the stubble. I was little surprised. It may surprise many that two decades back no one had heard of any phenomenon called stubble burning even in the North Indian states of Punjab and Haryana. An Agricultural Extension Officer would be able to confirm this. Stubble burning was known in certain pockets resorting to jhum cultivation, but that was a phenomenon in certain pockets and scientists were working for this practice to end. When did it start in food bowl of India? The next question is when and where did this stubble burning begin? Who introduced this phenomenon? Was it an endeavour to alter the agrarian practices? Was there a hidden agenda to make gullible farmers contribute to the destabilisation of the economy of the country? Make no mistake, this phenomenon has been introduced in two states which were the food bowl of the nation. One of them is a border area which had seen militancy affecting its agrarian economy for two decades not very far back. There are many for whom the wounds of militancy are still to heal. Is it an attempt at destabilisation? Also, recent attacks on Nirankari Bhavan in Rajsansi near Amritstar does reveal the unholy involvement of ISI through al Qaeda in these attacks. Not just that Gurdaspur (Pathankot), drug menace and such other dysfunctional events in recent past do have the ISI's stamp. Is the ISI, which is latently active through its sleeper cells in Punjab, also seeking to alter agrarian practices to discredit the farmers of Punjab in nation's eyes and foist disaffection in the state? Indeed, their previous endeavour of destabilising the Indian economy through Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICNs) got a setback due to demonetisation. Is the ISI peddling an alternative endeavour? One possible method which could prove as litmus test for this could be to check whether the farming community in Pakistan on other side of Punjab indulges in stubble burning after harvest of a crop. We need to find the truth and combat the same. (This article was originally published on Zee News. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Beyond air pollution, is there more to stubble burning than meets the eye?

Though one hears about air pollution in winter, the air quality is bad throughout the year. In fact, a 2016 study by IIT Kanpur found that PM 2.5 and PM 10 levels were 4-7 times the upper limit irrespective of the time of the year.&nbsp;

Economic growth and pollution: The causes of decrease in air quality are many — exponential increase in the number of vehicles in India from approximately 55 million in 1981 to 230 million in 2016. According to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers, ‘The sale of Passenger Vehicles grew by 7.89 per cent in April-March 2018 over the same period last year.’ Tail pipe emissions contribute just 2 per cent of PM 10 emissions at the national scale. A source apportionment study carried out by CPCB found road and construction dust contributed between 6-58 per cent of PM 10 particles. However, when PM 2.5 matter is considered, the contribution of the transport sector rises to 31 per cent.

The dependence on conventional energy sources is another factor. According to the Ministry of Power, ‘The electricity generation target of conventional sources for the year 2018-19 has been fixed as 1265 Billion Unit (BU), ie, growth of around 4.87 per cent over actual conventional generation of 1206.306 BU for the previous year (2017-18)’.

There has also been an increase in stubble burning over the years. Improper waste disposal is another big issue.

The Lancet Commission on Pollution and Health in 2017 stated that 2.5 million Indians die prematurely because of air pollution. In 2016, the World Bank and the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation calculated that in 2013 air pollution caused 1,403,136 deaths. The country lost $55.39 billion in labour output.&nbsp;

Budgetary allocation for air pollution control: The magnitude of air pollution problem and its far-reaching consequences calls for a response of mammoth proportions from the Centre and the states. That the National Green Tribunal had to recently ask 23 states to come up with plans to bring air quality within prescribed limits is proof of the importance given to this matter at the state and Central levels.&nbsp;

A review of PRS analysed state budgets for 2018-19 and 2017-18 found that only Delhi government made express provisions to combat air pollution — a subsidy of Rs 30,000 for firms to switch from diesel generators to clean fuel based one and another subsidy of Rs 1 lakh to incentivise piped gas. The government will also purchase 1000 electric buses.&nbsp;

A look at state budgets found that some states like Karnataka and Bihar have budgeted for the installation of air pollution monitoring stations in the current budget. Odisha launched a Star Rating system to encourage transparency in compliance of pollution standards within industries. Other states launched apps to keep citizens informed of air quality.

Interestingly, last year’s Delhi budget made provisions for the installation of 20 more air quality monitoring stations while the government of Punjab made a provision of Rs 20 crores to prevent the burning of paddy straw.

However, there was no other nod to air quality amelioration in these two budgets or in other state budgets.

Unfortunately, the 2018-19 central budget only catered to Delhi’s air. The government forgot that there are 13 other cities spread across India that feature in the world’s top 20 cities with deadly air quality.&nbsp;

However, after a presentation from the Environment Secretary, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology, Environment recommended a 50 per cent increase in the ministry’s Rs 2675.42 crore budget. The Secretary stated that Rs 250 crore of this additional money would be spent on air pollution abatement.&nbsp;

This year’s central budget exempts ethanol blended petrol and diesel blended with biodiesel from road and infrastructure cess, to promote their use. But will it help our lungs?

Is it the cart before the horse: Here in lies the problem. Air pollution abatement does not prevent air pollution. No amount of expenditure on abatement will suffice if it cannot at least equal the expenditure and investment in polluting sources. Take the example of the oft-abused remedy for air pollution — electric vehicles for public transport and personal use. The use of such vehicles only changes the point of pollution discharge. Further, as almost 64 per cent of electricity is generated from fossil fuels there is going to be a corresponding increase in pollution from these sources. The promotion of electric vehicles should come with the caveat that they be charged through renewable energy. This will not only decrease pollution in the city where such vehicles run, but will also prevent further decline in air quality around power generating sources.&nbsp;

Further, reducing vehicular traffic through schemes such as odd-even days can limit the number of vehicles on the road for a time. With the increase in purchases the efficacy of the scheme will decrease.

There is a need to take a hard look at the sources of pollution, be they the power industry, the construction industry, stubble burning, vehicles etc. It is important to look beyond abatement. 
 
(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-only-four-states-have-limited-allocation-to-fight-pollution-2687620">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

 
&nbsp;

Though one hears about air pollution in winter, the air quality is bad throughout the year. In fact, a 2016 study by IIT Kanpur found that PM 2.5 and PM 10 levels were 4-7 times the upper limit irrespective of the time of the year.

Though one hears about air pollution in winter, the air quality is bad throughout the year. In fact, a 2016 study by IIT Kanpur found that PM 2.5 and PM 10 levels were 4-7 times the upper limit irrespective of the time of the year. Economic growth and pollution: The causes of decrease in air quality are many — exponential increase in the number of vehicles in India from approximately 55 million in 1981 to 230 million in 2016. According to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers, ‘The sale of Passenger Vehicles grew by 7.89 per cent in April-March 2018 over the same period last year.’ Tail pipe emissions contribute just 2 per cent of PM 10 emissions at the national scale. A source apportionment study carried out by CPCB found road and construction dust contributed between 6-58 per cent of PM 10 particles. However, when PM 2.5 matter is considered, the contribution of the transport sector rises to 31 per cent. The dependence on conventional energy sources is another factor. According to the Ministry of Power, ‘The electricity generation target of conventional sources for the year 2018-19 has been fixed as 1265 Billion Unit (BU), ie, growth of around 4.87 per cent over actual conventional generation of 1206.306 BU for the previous year (2017-18)’. There has also been an increase in stubble burning over the years. Improper waste disposal is another big issue. The Lancet Commission on Pollution and Health in 2017 stated that 2.5 million Indians die prematurely because of air pollution. In 2016, the World Bank and the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation calculated that in 2013 air pollution caused 1,403,136 deaths. The country lost $55.39 billion in labour output. Budgetary allocation for air pollution control: The magnitude of air pollution problem and its far-reaching consequences calls for a response of mammoth proportions from the Centre and the states. That the National Green Tribunal had to recently ask 23 states to come up with plans to bring air quality within prescribed limits is proof of the importance given to this matter at the state and Central levels. A review of PRS analysed state budgets for 2018-19 and 2017-18 found that only Delhi government made express provisions to combat air pollution — a subsidy of Rs 30,000 for firms to switch from diesel generators to clean fuel based one and another subsidy of Rs 1 lakh to incentivise piped gas. The government will also purchase 1000 electric buses. A look at state budgets found that some states like Karnataka and Bihar have budgeted for the installation of air pollution monitoring stations in the current budget. Odisha launched a Star Rating system to encourage transparency in compliance of pollution standards within industries. Other states launched apps to keep citizens informed of air quality. Interestingly, last year’s Delhi budget made provisions for the installation of 20 more air quality monitoring stations while the government of Punjab made a provision of Rs 20 crores to prevent the burning of paddy straw. However, there was no other nod to air quality amelioration in these two budgets or in other state budgets. Unfortunately, the 2018-19 central budget only catered to Delhi’s air. The government forgot that there are 13 other cities spread across India that feature in the world’s top 20 cities with deadly air quality. However, after a presentation from the Environment Secretary, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology, Environment recommended a 50 per cent increase in the ministry’s Rs 2675.42 crore budget. The Secretary stated that Rs 250 crore of this additional money would be spent on air pollution abatement. This year’s central budget exempts ethanol blended petrol and diesel blended with biodiesel from road and infrastructure cess, to promote their use. But will it help our lungs? Is it the cart before the horse: Here in lies the problem. Air pollution abatement does not prevent air pollution. No amount of expenditure on abatement will suffice if it cannot at least equal the expenditure and investment in polluting sources. Take the example of the oft-abused remedy for air pollution — electric vehicles for public transport and personal use. The use of such vehicles only changes the point of pollution discharge. Further, as almost 64 per cent of electricity is generated from fossil fuels there is going to be a corresponding increase in pollution from these sources. The promotion of electric vehicles should come with the caveat that they be charged through renewable energy. This will not only decrease pollution in the city where such vehicles run, but will also prevent further decline in air quality around power generating sources. Further, reducing vehicular traffic through schemes such as odd-even days can limit the number of vehicles on the road for a time. With the increase in purchases the efficacy of the scheme will decrease. There is a need to take a hard look at the sources of pollution, be they the power industry, the construction industry, stubble burning, vehicles etc. It is important to look beyond abatement. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Only four states have limited allocation to fight pollution

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/100-years-of-end-of-wwi-trump-cancels-trip-to-memorial-because-of-rain-176591">100 years of </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/100-years-of-end-of-wwi-trump-cancels-trip-to-memorial-because-of-rain-176591">end</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/100-years-of-end-of-wwi-trump-cancels-trip-to-memorial-because-of-rain-176591"> of WWI: Trump cancels memorial service for fallen US soldiers — because of rain</a>

President Donald Trump could not attend a commemoration in France for US soldiers and marines killed during World War One on Saturday because rain made it impossible to arrange transport, the White House said.

The last minute cancellation prompted widespread criticism on social media and from some officials in Britain and the United States that Trump had "dishonoured" US servicemen.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-army-soldier-killed-in-sniper-fire-along-line-of-control-176587">J&amp;K: In </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-army-soldier-killed-in-sniper-fire-along-line-of-control-176587">2nd</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-army-soldier-killed-in-sniper-fire-along-line-of-control-176587"> attack in 2 days, Indian Army soldier killed in sniper fire along Line of Control</a>

An Army soldier was killed Saturday in sniper fire by Pakistani troops along the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir, a defence spokesman said.

The spokesman identified the soldier as rifleman Varun Kattal (21), a resident of Mawa-Rajpura area of Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir. He is survived by his parents, father Anchal Singh and mother Pinki Rani.

This was the second sniper attack along the LoC in two days. An Army porter lost his life in a similar attack in Akhnoor sector of Jammu Friday.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/florida-gubernatorial-candidate-andrew-gillum-recalls-concession-after-state-orders-vote-recount-176586">US midterms: After Florida orders recount, Democratic candidate recalls concession from Governor's race</a>

Florida authorities on Saturday ordered a statewide recount in the contentious races for US Senate and governor, amid tit-for-tat accusations of fraud from the candidates -- plunging the state once again into election uncertainty.

Eighteen years after the Sunshine State found itself at the heart of a battle for the US presidency, it was once again in the spotlight after Tuesday's vote, which left the contests for statewide offices undecided.

Florida's 67 counties had been given until midday (1700 GMT) on Saturday to submit unofficial totals.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-california-fire-rises-to-23-report-176596">California forest fires: Death toll rises to 23</a>

The death toll in California fire rose to 23 on Saturday after rescue workers recovered several bodies of people killed in the devastating fire; news agency AFP reported while quoting a sheriff.

"Today 14 additional bodies were located, which brings our total number to 23," Sheriff Kory Honea said.

The bodies were recovered in and around Paradise, California, a mountain community some 90 miles (145 km) north of Sacramento left devastated by the 'Camp Fire'.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-chokes-a-quality-remained-severe-on-sunday-construction-ban-extended-till-november-12-176593">Delhi: Air quality remains hazardous, construction ban extended to Nov 12</a>

Delhi air quality remained hazardous on Sunday, with Air Quality Index (AQI) at 633 at Mundka.&nbsp;

AQI remained well above 300 in most parts of the city which poses a major health risk.&nbsp;

On Saturday too, the air quality remained 'severe' and though the pollution level dipped marginally for a brief period in the morning, it turned severe again by evening. &nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

100 years of end of WWI: Trump cancels memorial service for fallen US soldiers — because of rain President Donald Trump could not attend a commemoration in France for US soldiers and marines killed during World War One on Saturday because rain made it impossible to arrange transport, the White House said.

100 years of end of WWI: Trump cancels memorial service for fallen US soldiers — because of rain President Donald Trump could not attend a commemoration in France for US soldiers and marines killed during World War One on Saturday because rain made it impossible to arrange transport, the White House said. The last minute cancellation prompted widespread criticism on social media and from some officials in Britain and the United States that Trump had "dishonoured" US servicemen. J&K: In 2nd attack in 2 days, Indian Army soldier killed in sniper fire along Line of Control An Army soldier was killed Saturday in sniper fire by Pakistani troops along the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir, a defence spokesman said. The spokesman identified the soldier as rifleman Varun Kattal (21), a resident of Mawa-Rajpura area of Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir. He is survived by his parents, father Anchal Singh and mother Pinki Rani. This was the second sniper attack along the LoC in two days. An Army porter lost his life in a similar attack in Akhnoor sector of Jammu Friday. US midterms: After Florida orders recount, Democratic candidate recalls concession from Governor's race Florida authorities on Saturday ordered a statewide recount in the contentious races for US Senate and governor, amid tit-for-tat accusations of fraud from the candidates -- plunging the state once again into election uncertainty. Eighteen years after the Sunshine State found itself at the heart of a battle for the US presidency, it was once again in the spotlight after Tuesday's vote, which left the contests for statewide offices undecided. Florida's 67 counties had been given until midday (1700 GMT) on Saturday to submit unofficial totals. California forest fires: Death toll rises to 23 The death toll in California fire rose to 23 on Saturday after rescue workers recovered several bodies of people killed in the devastating fire; news agency AFP reported while quoting a sheriff. "Today 14 additional bodies were located, which brings our total number to 23," Sheriff Kory Honea said. The bodies were recovered in and around Paradise, California, a mountain community some 90 miles (145 km) north of Sacramento left devastated by the 'Camp Fire'. Delhi: Air quality remains hazardous, construction ban extended to Nov 12 Delhi air quality remained hazardous on Sunday, with Air Quality Index (AQI) at 633 at Mundka. AQI remained well above 300 in most parts of the city which poses a major health risk. On Saturday too, the air quality remained 'severe' and though the pollution level dipped marginally for a brief period in the morning, it turned severe again by evening.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Air quality is a key concern in India with about 80 per cent of its cities violating globally prescribed standards. The impact of pollution is not just limited to health, as it effects agricultural productivity, visibility, buildings, climate, economy and overall, the image of the country.&nbsp;

Delhi, a part of the National Capital Region (NCR), is one of the most polluted regions in India. On an annual average basis, PM2.5 concentrations in Delhi remain about three times above the standards.

Due to meteorological adversity, the problem worsens in winter and concentrations reach alarming levels. Based on recent The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI’s) findings, among several contributors, transport has a significant share, about 28-30 per cent, in PM2.5 concentrations during winter season in Delhi.&nbsp;

Emissions from the transport sector are dependent on vehicular categories, type and quality of fuels, vehicular age distribution and usage patterns.&nbsp;

As per the latest TERI study, within the transport sector, heavy duty trucks account for 8 per cent, two-wheelers 7 per cent , three-wheelers 5 per cent, cars 3.4 per cent, buses 3 per cent, LCVs and tractors 1 per cent each, in the prevailing PM2.5 concentrations.&nbsp;

So in all, private vehicles (cars and two-wheelers) account for about 10 per cent of PM2.5 concentrations in winters. This share goes down to 6 per cent in summers out of a total of 17% contributed by transport sector.&nbsp;

On the other hand, commercial vehicles (trucks, buses, three-wheelers, LCVs) contribute to about 17 per cent out of the total (28-30 per cent) share of transport in winters.

There are also vintage-wise variations among the vehicular categories. Delhi-NCR moved to BS-IV standards for cars in 2010. In general, older vehicles (pre BS-IV) have shown higher contributions than BS-IV vehicles in the ambient PM concentrations.&nbsp;

This is mainly due to the older technologies in these vehicles and also due to vintage deterioration effects. As per the emission norms, a BS-IV car emits 80% lesser emissions than a car registered before 2000.&nbsp;

In case of cars, 50 per cent each is contributed by pre and post 2010 (BS-IV) vehicles. In two-wheelers, about 35% is the share of post-2010 vehicles, while the rest 65 per cent is contributed by pre-2010 two-wheelers.&nbsp;

With India announcing to adopt most advanced BS-VI vehicle emission standards from 2020 onwards, emissions from new vehicles (registered after 2020) will be further reduced by more than 80 per cent. These new vehicles are to be fitted with tail-pipe control devices like diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and selective catalytic reduction (SCRs) for control of PM and NOx emissions, respectively.&nbsp;

For effective emission control and maintenance of these new vehicles and tail-pipe devices, a strengthened inspection and maintenance system will be required. The current system of pollution under control (PUC) is not fully effective and will be inadequate for the newer generation of vehicles. The improved inspection and maintenance system will also lead to reduced emissions from the older fleet of in-use vehicles. &nbsp;

A ban on private vehicles appears as a solution, but an effective public transport system is a pre-requisite before thinking about implementing such a ban. There are significant limitations in the existing public transport system and is presently not enough to cater to the mobility demands of the city.&nbsp;

This is one of the important reasons, which have led to humongous growth in private vehicles in NCR. As an alternative to the private vehicle ban, ‘congestion pricing’ can be introduced that is based on ‘pay as you use’ principle.&nbsp;

Congestion pricing is a measure, which is used successfully in several parts of the world to gradually reduce the number of vehicles on road and also to encourage a modal shift towards public transportation.&nbsp;

The vehicles with higher occupancies can be exempted to encourage vehicle pooling. In the past, congestion pricing has been implemented successfully in various cities like Singapore, London, Sweden, Rome, Durham, Seoul, San Diego, etc.

There is a need to carefully set up congestion charges and allocating these for providing public transport options in the restricted zones as a public responsibility. Congestion charges can be applied to all different categories of vehicles and may not be restricted to only one category (like cars in the Odd-Even system).&nbsp;

In the medium term, congestion pricing can lead to the improved public transportation system, reduced congestion, savings on fuel and reduced pollution loads. Gradually, the scheme can improve and attract more people as there will be a clear discouragement to use private vehicles.&nbsp;

The congestion pricing scheme can actually work throughout the year and will provide larger year-long benefits. The pricing can be kept flexible based on air pollution levels in the zones.&nbsp;

The scheme can be implemented in many different ways, e.g. a) across the city; b) in the identified low emission zones and 3) in selected road-stretches, etc. Initially, this can be tried out in the identified low emission zones and the private vehicle users plying with lower occupancies can be made to pay congestion prices.&nbsp;

For an effective congestion pricing mechanism, electronic automatic systems will be required and public acceptance will need to be built. Moreover, to reduce private vehicle use, the provision of commuting services on a private basis can be thought of.

In high air pollution days, offices should be encouraged to consider flexible working hours and work from home facilities. The possibilities are endless.&nbsp; 
 
(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-commercial-beats-private-2683405">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

Air quality is a key concern in India with about 80 per cent of its cities violating globally prescribed standards. The impact of pollution is not just limited to health, as it effects agricultural productivity, visibility, buildings, climate, economy and overall, the image of the country.

Air quality is a key concern in India with about 80 per cent of its cities violating globally prescribed standards. The impact of pollution is not just limited to health, as it effects agricultural productivity, visibility, buildings, climate, economy and overall, the image of the country. Delhi, a part of the National Capital Region (NCR), is one of the most polluted regions in India. On an annual average basis, PM2.5 concentrations in Delhi remain about three times above the standards. Due to meteorological adversity, the problem worsens in winter and concentrations reach alarming levels. Based on recent The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI’s) findings, among several contributors, transport has a significant share, about 28-30 per cent, in PM2.5 concentrations during winter season in Delhi. Emissions from the transport sector are dependent on vehicular categories, type and quality of fuels, vehicular age distribution and usage patterns. As per the latest TERI study, within the transport sector, heavy duty trucks account for 8 per cent, two-wheelers 7 per cent , three-wheelers 5 per cent, cars 3.4 per cent, buses 3 per cent, LCVs and tractors 1 per cent each, in the prevailing PM2.5 concentrations. So in all, private vehicles (cars and two-wheelers) account for about 10 per cent of PM2.5 concentrations in winters. This share goes down to 6 per cent in summers out of a total of 17% contributed by transport sector. On the other hand, commercial vehicles (trucks, buses, three-wheelers, LCVs) contribute to about 17 per cent out of the total (28-30 per cent) share of transport in winters. There are also vintage-wise variations among the vehicular categories. Delhi-NCR moved to BS-IV standards for cars in 2010. In general, older vehicles (pre BS-IV) have shown higher contributions than BS-IV vehicles in the ambient PM concentrations. This is mainly due to the older technologies in these vehicles and also due to vintage deterioration effects. As per the emission norms, a BS-IV car emits 80% lesser emissions than a car registered before 2000. In case of cars, 50 per cent each is contributed by pre and post 2010 (BS-IV) vehicles. In two-wheelers, about 35% is the share of post-2010 vehicles, while the rest 65 per cent is contributed by pre-2010 two-wheelers. With India announcing to adopt most advanced BS-VI vehicle emission standards from 2020 onwards, emissions from new vehicles (registered after 2020) will be further reduced by more than 80 per cent. These new vehicles are to be fitted with tail-pipe control devices like diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and selective catalytic reduction (SCRs) for control of PM and NOx emissions, respectively. For effective emission control and maintenance of these new vehicles and tail-pipe devices, a strengthened inspection and maintenance system will be required. The current system of pollution under control (PUC) is not fully effective and will be inadequate for the newer generation of vehicles. The improved inspection and maintenance system will also lead to reduced emissions from the older fleet of in-use vehicles. A ban on private vehicles appears as a solution, but an effective public transport system is a pre-requisite before thinking about implementing such a ban. There are significant limitations in the existing public transport system and is presently not enough to cater to the mobility demands of the city. This is one of the important reasons, which have led to humongous growth in private vehicles in NCR. As an alternative to the private vehicle ban, ‘congestion pricing’ can be introduced that is based on ‘pay as you use’ principle. Congestion pricing is a measure, which is used successfully in several parts of the world to gradually reduce the number of vehicles on road and also to encourage a modal shift towards public transportation. The vehicles with higher occupancies can be exempted to encourage vehicle pooling. In the past, congestion pricing has been implemented successfully in various cities like Singapore, London, Sweden, Rome, Durham, Seoul, San Diego, etc. There is a need to carefully set up congestion charges and allocating these for providing public transport options in the restricted zones as a public responsibility. Congestion charges can be applied to all different categories of vehicles and may not be restricted to only one category (like cars in the Odd-Even system). In the medium term, congestion pricing can lead to the improved public transportation system, reduced congestion, savings on fuel and reduced pollution loads. Gradually, the scheme can improve and attract more people as there will be a clear discouragement to use private vehicles. The congestion pricing scheme can actually work throughout the year and will provide larger year-long benefits. The pricing can be kept flexible based on air pollution levels in the zones. The scheme can be implemented in many different ways, e.g. a) across the city; b) in the identified low emission zones and 3) in selected road-stretches, etc. Initially, this can be tried out in the identified low emission zones and the private vehicle users plying with lower occupancies can be made to pay congestion prices. For an effective congestion pricing mechanism, electronic automatic systems will be required and public acceptance will need to be built. Moreover, to reduce private vehicle use, the provision of commuting services on a private basis can be thought of. In high air pollution days, offices should be encouraged to consider flexible working hours and work from home facilities. The possibilities are endless. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Effective public transport a pre-requisite before banning private vehicles

The recent judgment by the Supreme Court is well-intentioned and a bold attempt to address a grave issue concerning the health of citizens, especially the infants and the old. The court refused to impose a nationwide blanket ban on the manufacture and sale of firecrackers. However, it did not allow anything other than green crackers to be burst in the NCR region. It has fixed a time band of 8 pm to 10 pm — on Diwali and other festivities, including weddings for the bursting of firecrackers across the country. 
 
A separate time slot (11.55 pm to 12.30 am) has been allowed for bursting crackers during Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebration across the country. In addition, certain excessive polluting category of firecrackers have been banned along with the complete prohibition of online sale of crackers.

The apex court has tried to show environmental stewardship while dealing with the firecrackers issue though it has favoured a moderate use of crackers after its failure in controlling the sale and use of firecrackers last year. The core content of the SC order revolves around manufacturing and sale of “green crackers”. Surprisingly, the apex court has failed to inquire into a potent question, whether green crackers are manufactured in India or not? The answer is perhaps “no”. 
 
The concept of “green firecracker” is still in the embryonic stage. The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) had come up with that idea but there is hardly any research on developing green crackers, nor is there any scientific, technical and socio-economic information available to understand the issue. Hence, the one way worth exploring is the importation of such green crackers from some foreign countries — if at all they are in use. They could be shipped to Indian in massive quantities.

Though the court has tried to balance various competing interests like those relating to the firecracker industry’s needs, the livelihood of workers, the rights of consumers, religious sentiments, environmental prerogatives and even the problems of local administrations, it is very difficult to strike a fine balance among the extremely contradictory and competing interests, and that is why it poses serious doubts on implementability of the court’s order. The last years’ experience speaks volume about it.

It is an undenying fact that bursting of firecrackers releases a heavy dose of carcinogens in the atmosphere, presenting a humongous public health challenge for Delhi and NCR regions. Though the executive wing is duty bound to ensure safe health by regulating the use of such polluting materials, its constant dereliction forces the courts to step in. Even the state governments are quite lethargic in fighting the pollution menace.

In the wake of the ban, the argument over the firecracker industry’s estimated loss of more than Rs 1,000 crore in the current year is not convincing in terms of the potentiality of health hazards. It is high time the firecrackers manufacturing sector ought to be persuaded to use the latest technology that reduces pollution. It is equally important to educate the people, especially children, about the threat to health posed by firecrackers. Campaigns over the years have yielded some dividends, however, there is a greater need to promote emancipatory environmentalism. We need to ponder over how the traditional value system of sustainability has been sacrificed at the altar of mindless consumerism and pomp, deliberately ignoring the long-term deleterious impact of such action.

The simplistic mass cultural extravaganza has gradually divorced itself from many traditional, religious and cultural specific aspects of the festival. It is used more as a potent marketing tool in cities diluting the essence of worship, honour and devotion to the divine. In fact, the literal meaning of Deepavali is “row of lamps” which projects the glorious past of our country that teaches us true values of our lives. That is being gradually fading in the face of loud firecrackers. The growing social awareness concerning emulating eco-friendly measures in every aspect of our life will lead to arresting the persistent dangers emanating from the bursting of crackers. It is hoped and believed that mass awareness for the love for our ecology will be the best tool against polluting firecrackers. 
 
(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-green-diwali-is-a-distant-dream-nurtured-by-eco-awareness-2683712">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The recent judgment by the Supreme Court is well-intentioned and a bold attempt to address a grave issue concerning the health of citizens, especially the infants and the old.

The recent judgment by the Supreme Court is well-intentioned and a bold attempt to address a grave issue concerning the health of citizens, especially the infants and the old. The court refused to impose a nationwide blanket ban on the manufacture and sale of firecrackers. However, it did not allow anything other than green crackers to be burst in the NCR region. It has fixed a time band of 8 pm to 10 pm — on Diwali and other festivities, including weddings for the bursting of firecrackers across the country. A separate time slot (11.55 pm to 12.30 am) has been allowed for bursting crackers during Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebration across the country. In addition, certain excessive polluting category of firecrackers have been banned along with the complete prohibition of online sale of crackers. The apex court has tried to show environmental stewardship while dealing with the firecrackers issue though it has favoured a moderate use of crackers after its failure in controlling the sale and use of firecrackers last year. The core content of the SC order revolves around manufacturing and sale of “green crackers”. Surprisingly, the apex court has failed to inquire into a potent question, whether green crackers are manufactured in India or not? The answer is perhaps “no”. The concept of “green firecracker” is still in the embryonic stage. The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) had come up with that idea but there is hardly any research on developing green crackers, nor is there any scientific, technical and socio-economic information available to understand the issue. Hence, the one way worth exploring is the importation of such green crackers from some foreign countries — if at all they are in use. They could be shipped to Indian in massive quantities. Though the court has tried to balance various competing interests like those relating to the firecracker industry’s needs, the livelihood of workers, the rights of consumers, religious sentiments, environmental prerogatives and even the problems of local administrations, it is very difficult to strike a fine balance among the extremely contradictory and competing interests, and that is why it poses serious doubts on implementability of the court’s order. The last years’ experience speaks volume about it. It is an undenying fact that bursting of firecrackers releases a heavy dose of carcinogens in the atmosphere, presenting a humongous public health challenge for Delhi and NCR regions. Though the executive wing is duty bound to ensure safe health by regulating the use of such polluting materials, its constant dereliction forces the courts to step in. Even the state governments are quite lethargic in fighting the pollution menace. In the wake of the ban, the argument over the firecracker industry’s estimated loss of more than Rs 1,000 crore in the current year is not convincing in terms of the potentiality of health hazards. It is high time the firecrackers manufacturing sector ought to be persuaded to use the latest technology that reduces pollution. It is equally important to educate the people, especially children, about the threat to health posed by firecrackers. Campaigns over the years have yielded some dividends, however, there is a greater need to promote emancipatory environmentalism. We need to ponder over how the traditional value system of sustainability has been sacrificed at the altar of mindless consumerism and pomp, deliberately ignoring the long-term deleterious impact of such action. The simplistic mass cultural extravaganza has gradually divorced itself from many traditional, religious and cultural specific aspects of the festival. It is used more as a potent marketing tool in cities diluting the essence of worship, honour and devotion to the divine. In fact, the literal meaning of Deepavali is “row of lamps” which projects the glorious past of our country that teaches us true values of our lives. That is being gradually fading in the face of loud firecrackers. The growing social awareness concerning emulating eco-friendly measures in every aspect of our life will lead to arresting the persistent dangers emanating from the bursting of crackers. It is hoped and believed that mass awareness for the love for our ecology will be the best tool against polluting firecrackers. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Green Diwali is a distant dream nurtured by eco-awareness

Pollution Levels rise in New Delhi

Delhi's air quality Wednesday oscillated between "poor" and "very poor" categories as authorities warned of severe deterioration of air quality even if "partial toxic crackers" are burned compared to last year.

The overall air quality index (AQI) was recorded at 281, which falls in the "poor" category, according the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data.

The Centre-run System of Air Quality Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) recorded the overall air quality index at 319, which falls in "very poor" category. 
Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Gurgaon, Noida and Greater Noida recorded "poor" quality air, according to the CPCB.

Eleven areas of Delhi recorded "very poor" air quality while 24 areas recorded "poor" air quality, according to the CPCB data.

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe".

The PM2.5 (particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres) level was recorded at 143 while the PM10 (particles in the air with a diameter of less than 10 micrometres) was recorded at 281 in Delhi, according to the CPCB data.

The SAFAR has predicted worse quality air for Wednesday evening and Thursday.

"The highest levels of PM10 and PM2.5 are expected between 11AM to 3AM on Wednesday and Thursday. Air Quality will be bad on Thursday and start to improve from Friday even if partial toxic crackers as compared to 2017 is burned," the government-run agency warned.

According to the SAFAR, both stubble burning in surrounding states of Delhi and firecrackers are causing deterioration of air quality in the national capital.

"The fire counts are seen to be very high but it is a combination of stubble burning and widespread firecrackers in that region and need not be confused with stubble only fire," the SAFAR said in a report Wednesday.

It also said that the combination of several rapidly changing weather parameters is playing a key role in controlling the air pollution at this time.

Delhi's air quality is expected to deteriorate to "severe plus emergency" category after Diwali, SAFAR said.

"Even if 50 per cent of the total load of toxic firecrackers as compared to Diwali 2017 is added, the prevailing weather conditions will aggravate the high smoke level and make air quality to persist in severe range for at least two days on November 8 and November 9," it said in a report.

SAFAR has also predicted that the PM10 concentration of Delhi is expected to reach 575 and PM2.5 to 378 on Thursday, recording the worst air quality of the year if fire crackers are burnt, it said.

The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology said the winds coming from north-westerly direction is bringing the influence of biomass burning to Delhi-NCR which may continue up to Thursday morning.

"The increase in PM2.5 concentration is due to change in wind direction, decrease in wind speeds and contribution from biomass burning," the IITM said.

Delhi's air quality Wednesday oscillated between "poor" and "very poor" categories as authorities warned of severe deterioration of air quality even if "partial toxic crackers" are burned compared to last year.

Delhi's air quality Wednesday oscillated between "poor" and "very poor" categories as authorities warned of severe deterioration of air quality even if "partial toxic crackers" are burned compared to last year. The overall air quality index (AQI) was recorded at 281, which falls in the "poor" category, according the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. The Centre-run System of Air Quality Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) recorded the overall air quality index at 319, which falls in "very poor" category. Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Gurgaon, Noida and Greater Noida recorded "poor" quality air, according to the CPCB. Eleven areas of Delhi recorded "very poor" air quality while 24 areas recorded "poor" air quality, according to the CPCB data. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe". The PM2.5 (particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres) level was recorded at 143 while the PM10 (particles in the air with a diameter of less than 10 micrometres) was recorded at 281 in Delhi, according to the CPCB data. The SAFAR has predicted worse quality air for Wednesday evening and Thursday. "The highest levels of PM10 and PM2.5 are expected between 11AM to 3AM on Wednesday and Thursday. Air Quality will be bad on Thursday and start to improve from Friday even if partial toxic crackers as compared to 2017 is burned," the government-run agency warned. According to the SAFAR, both stubble burning in surrounding states of Delhi and firecrackers are causing deterioration of air quality in the national capital. "The fire counts are seen to be very high but it is a combination of stubble burning and widespread firecrackers in that region and need not be confused with stubble only fire," the SAFAR said in a report Wednesday. It also said that the combination of several rapidly changing weather parameters is playing a key role in controlling the air pollution at this time. Delhi's air quality is expected to deteriorate to "severe plus emergency" category after Diwali, SAFAR said. "Even if 50 per cent of the total load of toxic firecrackers as compared to Diwali 2017 is added, the prevailing weather conditions will aggravate the high smoke level and make air quality to persist in severe range for at least two days on November 8 and November 9," it said in a report. SAFAR has also predicted that the PM10 concentration of Delhi is expected to reach 575 and PM2.5 to 378 on Thursday, recording the worst air quality of the year if fire crackers are burnt, it said. The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology said the winds coming from north-westerly direction is bringing the influence of biomass burning to Delhi-NCR which may continue up to Thursday morning. "The increase in PM2.5 concentration is due to change in wind direction, decrease in wind speeds and contribution from biomass burning," the IITM said.

Delhi's air quality oscillating between 'poor' and 'very poor': Authorities

As pollution levels surged to "severe" and "hazardous" levels in New Delhi this week, there was little sign that residents of India's teeming capital were doing much to protect themselves.

The smog, which is expected to worsen in the next few days, exposed people to as much as 24 times the recommended limits for dangerous particles on Monday. But unlike in many Chinese cities, where face masks are a common sight when smog levels spike, it is still rare to see locals taking measures to reduce their exposure.

Toddlers stand at school bus stops in crisply ironed uniforms, while security guards, street sweepers, and rickshaw drivers spend many hours outside breathing in the filthy air - all without any attempt at protection.

Ask middle-class residents whether they have air purifiers in their homes and the answer is invariable no.

This is despite the extensive coverage of the capital's pollution crisis by local media, including numerous warnings from doctors about massive health hazards, especially for children, the sick and the elderly.

The apparent lack of concern about the toxic air - whether through ignorance, apathy or the blinding impact of poverty -gives federal and local politicians the cover they need for failing to vigorously address the problem, said pollution activists, social scientists and political experts.

Neither the governing party at the federal level nor the main opposition is in power in the capital, giving them little incentive to cooperate with the city authorities.

And while Delhi may have a population of more than 20 million, its importance at voting time - a national election is due by May next year - is insignificant in comparison with states such as neighbouring Uttar Pradesh, which has 220 million.

"The tragedy is that there is no political will at all either on the part of the federal government or the state government of Delhi and, as a result, we can see both blaming each other for the crisis that we are in," said Yogendra Yadav, a political polling expert. "Whatever little government action you get to see is because of the pressure that environmental activists and the Supreme Court get to exert."

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COCKTAIL OF FUMES

India's problems with smog extend far beyond Delhi - the nation of 1.3 billion has 14 out of the 15 most polluted cities in the world, according to the World Health Organisation.

But in the capital, at least, this was the year the problem was supposed to be addressed.

After a cocktail of toxic fumes enveloped the area in October and November last year, the Delhi city government declared it a public health emergency and its Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal described the Indian capital as a "gas chamber". Officials of the federal government said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's office had asked them to ensure that it did not happen again.

But steps taken so far have failed to make much difference, and now there is finger-pointing between Modi's administration, the Delhi city government, and the governments of states around the capital.

As this year's crisis has worsened, environment ministers from Punjab and Haryana - whose farmers' stubble-burning is a major contributor to the haze - failed to turn up for a meeting called by the federal environment ministry last week, sending their civil servants instead.

The farmers have been torching their fields as they get ready for new plantings, despite being offered government subsidies on machinery that would allow them to mulch the material into the ground without lighting fires.

Farmers say the subsidies were not enough to cover the price of the machinery, the cost of running it, and the additional labour needed, especially given higher fuel prices.

India had planned to reduce crop burning by up to 70 per cent this year but only a 30 per cent drop has been visible so far, according to a government statement last Thursday.

Blaming that as the main reason behind New Delhi's poisonous air, a spokesman for the city government said: "We can't take steps in isolation in Delhi; we can't build a wall."

The federal government, meanwhile, has attacked the city for doing little to control pollution from dust, vehicles and industries.

Certainly, there has been little done to reduce the number of heavily polluting vehicles on the roads in and around Delhi despite threats that have been made but not followed through, including one from the Supreme Court-appointed Environmental Pollution Control Authority (EPCA) to ban all private vehicles from the city.

And while the nation's top court has issued a ruling trying to restrict the use of fireworks on the night of the Hindu festival Diwali, which is on Wednesday, few expect it to be enforced. For one thing, the court's edict that only "green", less-polluting firecrackers can be let off between the hours of 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. is likely to be ignored because there are no "green" fireworks for sale in the city.

WAKE-UP CALL?

Most officials expect to wake up to even worse pollution on Nov. 8, as smoke from the festivities mixes with the smog from other sources to create a deadly cocktail. Light seasonal winds and a lack of rain at this time of year means pollution can linger for weeks, as it did last year.

But Modi's ruling Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is more concerned about the impact of weak farm incomes, high fuel prices, and whether job creation has been adequate as issues at the polls.

"A holistic approach in the current climate is difficult to envisage as political divisiveness means that politicians are not looking for enduring solutions," said Pavan K Varma, an official from a regional party in the state of Bihar and former diplomat who lives in Delhi.

Neither is it in the BJP's interests, or in the interest of the main opposition Congress party, to help Kejriwal's New Delhi government. In 2015, Kejriwal's anti-establishment Aam Aadmi (Common Man) Party, campaigning on an anti-corruption platform, crushed the BJP and Congress to take control of the city.

For Delhi's doctors, it is a nightmare.

This year, the number of patients with severe lung problems has already gone up by up by 25 per cent and is expected to increase further after Diwali, said Doctor Desh Deepak, a chest physician at government-run Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital.

"It's tragic that children are suffering and we'll destroy a whole generation if we don't take cognizance of the fact that pollution needs to be tackled on a war footing," said Dr Neeraj Jain, head of chest medicine at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi.

Dipankar Gupta, a leading sociologist who has written books on Indian society, said only heavy state intervention was likely to solve the problem. He pointed to an improvement in the pollution levels in Beijing last year because of strict government measures to curb polluting industries near the Chinese capital.

But that state crackdown still seems a long way from happening in India.&nbsp;

The EPCA has announced a variety of steps between Nov. 1-10 as part of an emergency package, including the use of water sprinklers and a complete ban on construction.

But most environmental experts say it is far too little, too late, and is not addressing the biggest pollution sources.

Modi has not publicly addressed the health crisis that has engulfed the capital.

The grim prognosis means that foreign organizations, including embassies in Delhi, are finding it difficult to get top talent to come to the city.

"Staff with young children are increasingly choosing not to come which wasn't the case a few years ago," a Western diplomat told Reuters on condition of anonymity.

Most of the city's residents are poor, however, and more worried about making enough money to buy food than pollution.

"The daily grind ... leaves no room to think about the haze and smog," said Vimla Devi, who works as a maid in the suburbs of Delhi.

As pollution levels surged to "severe" and "hazardous" levels in New Delhi this week, there was little sign that residents of India's teeming capital were doing much to protect themselves.

As pollution levels surged to "severe" and "hazardous" levels in New Delhi this week, there was little sign that residents of India's teeming capital were doing much to protect themselves. The smog, which is expected to worsen in the next few days, exposed people to as much as 24 times the recommended limits for dangerous particles on Monday. But unlike in many Chinese cities, where face masks are a common sight when smog levels spike, it is still rare to see locals taking measures to reduce their exposure. Toddlers stand at school bus stops in crisply ironed uniforms, while security guards, street sweepers, and rickshaw drivers spend many hours outside breathing in the filthy air - all without any attempt at protection. Ask middle-class residents whether they have air purifiers in their homes and the answer is invariable no. This is despite the extensive coverage of the capital's pollution crisis by local media, including numerous warnings from doctors about massive health hazards, especially for children, the sick and the elderly. The apparent lack of concern about the toxic air - whether through ignorance, apathy or the blinding impact of poverty -gives federal and local politicians the cover they need for failing to vigorously address the problem, said pollution activists, social scientists and political experts. Neither the governing party at the federal level nor the main opposition is in power in the capital, giving them little incentive to cooperate with the city authorities. And while Delhi may have a population of more than 20 million, its importance at voting time - a national election is due by May next year - is insignificant in comparison with states such as neighbouring Uttar Pradesh, which has 220 million. "The tragedy is that there is no political will at all either on the part of the federal government or the state government of Delhi and, as a result, we can see both blaming each other for the crisis that we are in," said Yogendra Yadav, a political polling expert. "Whatever little government action you get to see is because of the pressure that environmental activists and the Supreme Court get to exert." × COCKTAIL OF FUMES India's problems with smog extend far beyond Delhi - the nation of 1.3 billion has 14 out of the 15 most polluted cities in the world, according to the World Health Organisation. But in the capital, at least, this was the year the problem was supposed to be addressed. After a cocktail of toxic fumes enveloped the area in October and November last year, the Delhi city government declared it a public health emergency and its Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal described the Indian capital as a "gas chamber". Officials of the federal government said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's office had asked them to ensure that it did not happen again. But steps taken so far have failed to make much difference, and now there is finger-pointing between Modi's administration, the Delhi city government, and the governments of states around the capital. As this year's crisis has worsened, environment ministers from Punjab and Haryana - whose farmers' stubble-burning is a major contributor to the haze - failed to turn up for a meeting called by the federal environment ministry last week, sending their civil servants instead. The farmers have been torching their fields as they get ready for new plantings, despite being offered government subsidies on machinery that would allow them to mulch the material into the ground without lighting fires. Farmers say the subsidies were not enough to cover the price of the machinery, the cost of running it, and the additional labour needed, especially given higher fuel prices. India had planned to reduce crop burning by up to 70 per cent this year but only a 30 per cent drop has been visible so far, according to a government statement last Thursday. Blaming that as the main reason behind New Delhi's poisonous air, a spokesman for the city government said: "We can't take steps in isolation in Delhi; we can't build a wall." The federal government, meanwhile, has attacked the city for doing little to control pollution from dust, vehicles and industries. Certainly, there has been little done to reduce the number of heavily polluting vehicles on the roads in and around Delhi despite threats that have been made but not followed through, including one from the Supreme Court-appointed Environmental Pollution Control Authority (EPCA) to ban all private vehicles from the city. And while the nation's top court has issued a ruling trying to restrict the use of fireworks on the night of the Hindu festival Diwali, which is on Wednesday, few expect it to be enforced. For one thing, the court's edict that only "green", less-polluting firecrackers can be let off between the hours of 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. is likely to be ignored because there are no "green" fireworks for sale in the city. WAKE-UP CALL? Most officials expect to wake up to even worse pollution on Nov. 8, as smoke from the festivities mixes with the smog from other sources to create a deadly cocktail. Light seasonal winds and a lack of rain at this time of year means pollution can linger for weeks, as it did last year. But Modi's ruling Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is more concerned about the impact of weak farm incomes, high fuel prices, and whether job creation has been adequate as issues at the polls. "A holistic approach in the current climate is difficult to envisage as political divisiveness means that politicians are not looking for enduring solutions," said Pavan K Varma, an official from a regional party in the state of Bihar and former diplomat who lives in Delhi. Neither is it in the BJP's interests, or in the interest of the main opposition Congress party, to help Kejriwal's New Delhi government. In 2015, Kejriwal's anti-establishment Aam Aadmi (Common Man) Party, campaigning on an anti-corruption platform, crushed the BJP and Congress to take control of the city. For Delhi's doctors, it is a nightmare. This year, the number of patients with severe lung problems has already gone up by up by 25 per cent and is expected to increase further after Diwali, said Doctor Desh Deepak, a chest physician at government-run Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital. "It's tragic that children are suffering and we'll destroy a whole generation if we don't take cognizance of the fact that pollution needs to be tackled on a war footing," said Dr Neeraj Jain, head of chest medicine at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi. Dipankar Gupta, a leading sociologist who has written books on Indian society, said only heavy state intervention was likely to solve the problem. He pointed to an improvement in the pollution levels in Beijing last year because of strict government measures to curb polluting industries near the Chinese capital. But that state crackdown still seems a long way from happening in India. The EPCA has announced a variety of steps between Nov. 1-10 as part of an emergency package, including the use of water sprinklers and a complete ban on construction. But most environmental experts say it is far too little, too late, and is not addressing the biggest pollution sources. Modi has not publicly addressed the health crisis that has engulfed the capital. The grim prognosis means that foreign organizations, including embassies in Delhi, are finding it difficult to get top talent to come to the city. "Staff with young children are increasingly choosing not to come which wasn't the case a few years ago," a Western diplomat told Reuters on condition of anonymity. Most of the city's residents are poor, however, and more worried about making enough money to buy food than pollution. "The daily grind ... leaves no room to think about the haze and smog," said Vimla Devi, who works as a maid in the suburbs of Delhi.

Deadly political calculations: Why India isn't fixing its toxic smog problem

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is mulling inducing artificial rain in Delhi after Diwali to wash away hazardous pollutants that is plaguing the national capital.

A senior CPCB official said they are in talks with the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for inducing artificial rain after Diwali when the pollution is expected to reach "severe-plus emergency" stage.

The official said they are waiting for meteorological conditions to become stable and then use cloud seeding for inducing artificial rain.

Cloud seeding is the process of combining different kinds of chemical agents including silver iodide, dry ice and even common table salt with existing clouds in an effort to thicken the clouds and increase the chance of rain or snowfall.

An IIT Kanpur professor said weather conditions are being monitored to become favourable for creating artificial rain.

"We are supporting the project by providing salt mix for inducing artificial rain. The weatherman is monitoring weather conditions to become favourable for creating artificial rain," the IIT Kanpur professor, who is part of the project, said.

In 2016, the government tried to explore the possibility of cloud seeding for artificial rain but the plan never worked out. Last year, the government has proposed the possibility of reducing dust by watering Delhi from a helicopter to Union Minister Harsh Vardhan.

Delhi's air quality has again deteriorated to alarming levels in the past three weeks.

Delhi's air quality was recorded in 'very poor' category on Tuesday as wind continued to blow from regions where there is rampant stubble burning, authorities said, warning of severe spike in pollution levels after Diwali even if "partial toxic crackers" are burnt compared to last year.

The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 394, which falls in the 'very poor' category, according to data by the Central Pollution Control Board.&nbsp;

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is mulling inducing artificial rain in Delhi after Diwali to wash away hazardous pollutants that is plaguing the national capital.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is mulling inducing artificial rain in Delhi after Diwali to wash away hazardous pollutants that is plaguing the national capital. A senior CPCB official said they are in talks with the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for inducing artificial rain after Diwali when the pollution is expected to reach "severe-plus emergency" stage. The official said they are waiting for meteorological conditions to become stable and then use cloud seeding for inducing artificial rain. Cloud seeding is the process of combining different kinds of chemical agents including silver iodide, dry ice and even common table salt with existing clouds in an effort to thicken the clouds and increase the chance of rain or snowfall. An IIT Kanpur professor said weather conditions are being monitored to become favourable for creating artificial rain. "We are supporting the project by providing salt mix for inducing artificial rain. The weatherman is monitoring weather conditions to become favourable for creating artificial rain," the IIT Kanpur professor, who is part of the project, said. In 2016, the government tried to explore the possibility of cloud seeding for artificial rain but the plan never worked out. Last year, the government has proposed the possibility of reducing dust by watering Delhi from a helicopter to Union Minister Harsh Vardhan. Delhi's air quality has again deteriorated to alarming levels in the past three weeks. Delhi's air quality was recorded in 'very poor' category on Tuesday as wind continued to blow from regions where there is rampant stubble burning, authorities said, warning of severe spike in pollution levels after Diwali even if "partial toxic crackers" are burnt compared to last year. The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 394, which falls in the 'very poor' category, according to data by the Central Pollution Control Board.

CPCB mulling using artificial rain in Delhi to tackle pollution after Diwali

Action needs to be taken to minimize the use of private vehicles, which contribute nearly 40 per cent to air pollution in Delhi, a green body said Monday as the air quality of the national capital nosedived to severe category.

Anumita Roychowdhury, an executive director at the Delhi-based think-tank Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), said when the authorities are ramping up emergency actions on all sectors why should vehicles be spared. She said traffic would increase due to Diwali shopping until November 7 which would further worsen the air quality and action needs to be taken against the vehicles.

“The proposed action on private vehicles has to be seen within the larger context of how we are gradually ramping up emergency actions on all sectors. Today when we have gone to the extent of shutting power plants, brick kilns, hot mix plants and even gensets, the cars are actually coming last.

“So to say to make an exception to cars is very wrong keeping in mind that all the new estimates are showing that private vehicles contribute towards 40 per cent of pollution,” Roychowdhury said during CSE’s Facebook Live programme on air pollution ‘Season of Smog’.

Delhi’s air quality deteriorated drastically to severe Monday.

The overall air quality index on Monday was registered at 418, a sharp decline from a day before when the AQI was moderate at 171. The Supreme-Court appointed Environment Protection Control Authority last week proposed a ban on use of private vehicles in case of further deterioration of air quality.

“Diwali marketing is going to intensify and we have to take action on vehicles and these are temporary measures. It also means that all of us have to take responsibility to take public transport,” Roychowdhury added. Roychowdhury also said people can play a crucial role in building up pressure on authorities and demand action from them.

“Public participation is critical to keep up pressure on public and demand action. People can also play a role in combating pollution by reducing footprint, carpooling, public transport and increasing use of cycles for transportation,” she said. A thick haze has engulfed the national capital two days ahead of Diwali, following which, experts have warned, the air quality is likely to worsen further due to local factors.

Action needs to be taken to minimize the use of private vehicles, which contribute nearly 40 per cent to air pollution in Delhi, a green body said Monday as the air quality of the national capital nosedived to severe category.

Action needs to be taken to minimize the use of private vehicles, which contribute nearly 40 per cent to air pollution in Delhi, a green body said Monday as the air quality of the national capital nosedived to severe category. Anumita Roychowdhury, an executive director at the Delhi-based think-tank Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), said when the authorities are ramping up emergency actions on all sectors why should vehicles be spared. She said traffic would increase due to Diwali shopping until November 7 which would further worsen the air quality and action needs to be taken against the vehicles. “The proposed action on private vehicles has to be seen within the larger context of how we are gradually ramping up emergency actions on all sectors. Today when we have gone to the extent of shutting power plants, brick kilns, hot mix plants and even gensets, the cars are actually coming last. “So to say to make an exception to cars is very wrong keeping in mind that all the new estimates are showing that private vehicles contribute towards 40 per cent of pollution,” Roychowdhury said during CSE’s Facebook Live programme on air pollution ‘Season of Smog’. Delhi’s air quality deteriorated drastically to severe Monday. The overall air quality index on Monday was registered at 418, a sharp decline from a day before when the AQI was moderate at 171. The Supreme-Court appointed Environment Protection Control Authority last week proposed a ban on use of private vehicles in case of further deterioration of air quality. “Diwali marketing is going to intensify and we have to take action on vehicles and these are temporary measures. It also means that all of us have to take responsibility to take public transport,” Roychowdhury added. Roychowdhury also said people can play a crucial role in building up pressure on authorities and demand action from them. “Public participation is critical to keep up pressure on public and demand action. People can also play a role in combating pollution by reducing footprint, carpooling, public transport and increasing use of cycles for transportation,” she said. A thick haze has engulfed the national capital two days ahead of Diwali, following which, experts have warned, the air quality is likely to worsen further due to local factors.

Private vehicles contribute nearly 40% to air pollution in Delhi, action needed for minimising their use: CSE

Delhi pollution crosses hazardous levels

In the mid 19th Century, when the persona of Santa Claus began to gain popularity in the United States, gifts became part of the imagery. Slowly, this trend grew, until in 1924, the department store Macy’s included a Santa in their Thanksgiving Parade and soon after Selfridges started decorating its shop front window for Christmas, urging customers to buy stuff around Christmas time.

Until then, Christmas had been a family function, not the crazy commercial shopping extravaganza that it has now grown into in the West. Over the past 100-odd years, gift giving has become a competitive, exhausting activity, so much so that the American mom fretting over lists of who gets what gift in the holiday season has become a cliché in popular entertainment.

Commercialisation of Christmas and the whole forced cheer of a Santa lookalike in every high street store is known to psychologically affect all the lonely people who do not feel so ho-ho-ho.

It led to the creation of the oxymoronic phrase “holiday season blues” to indicate how those who are single or are not able to be with their families, end up feeling lonely and depressed, watching the hyper celebrations of others.

The culture of conspicuous consumption is also leaving out all the poorer people of rich countries who cannot afford to go on a buying spree.

So the effects of this practice have implications for many sections of society.

But the governments of these countries are not interfering and ordering a trial ban on gift purchases or limiting gift buying to one weekend only during the holiday season. I am obviously drawing a parallel to our own courts intervening in how festivals should be celebrated.

In India, we have been told that not lighting crackers on Diwali is no big deal because crackers were not always there and got added on Diwali about a hundred years ago for commercial reasons by some Sivakasi businessmen.

Well, there are Mughal miniature paintings showing lighting of sparklers on Diwali and historical records that go back much further. If you check in any family, at least three generations will attest to having burst crackers on Diwali as children. That’s enough of a tradition, even if you don’t want to delve into history. In one fell swoop, being dismissive of a tradition that has endured all through living memory of most people, is disrespectful, to put it mildly.

So I get it that crackers are harmful to the environment. But I have to roll my eyes at this because everyday, on the road I see at least one auto, two-wheeler, tempos or truck spewing black exhaust with impunity right on the face of the car behind and whizz past.

We have to slow down and let the offender pass in order to avoid the toxic cloud. In the construction frenzy that prevails in NCR throughout the year, dust clouds are always rising around the whizzing cement churner and JCB when one passes any under-construction building of which there are hundreds around Delhi.

These are perineal sources of air pollution while crackers happen for a few hours annually. Are crackers the main culprit or are the people who find a few hours of pleasure in them, ie, typically children celebrating Diwali, just easy prey to impose rules on?

An activist for air quality has been quoted saying crackers were “low hanging fruit”. That’s another word for soft targets. The high hanging fruit —those in the construction business or truck owners or stubble-burning farmers who are potential vote banks — are too prickly to be touched.

How about cigarette smoke? Tobacco smoke particles and outdoor PM2.5 pollution share some similar chemical compounds and have a similar role in cancer causation.

A controlled experiment in Italy found that fine particulate matter emitted by cigarettes is 10 times greater than diesel car exhaust. But who can dare to say that cigarettes can only be smoked for a few hours, as specified by the court, to help reduce air pollution?

Yes, crackers add to air pollution. But there are bigger fish in the sea who are the main wrongdoers! No one is meddling with them because there are powerful lobbies, money and vote banks involved. Crackers are a lesser evil, but they are being targeted because their users are children and families who will meekly comply.

It is this bias that jars. It is a bit like the income tax department threatening small entrepreneurs and white collared workers while beer barons and diamond czars have flown the coop.

The nanny State interfering in all aspects of life is anyway pointless. Everywhere one hears people asking “But how are they going to ensure no one lights a cracker after 10 pm? Is the police coming to each verandah to check?” 
 
(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-cracker-regulations-aimed-at-soft-targets-not-powerful-lobbies-2682707">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

In the mid 19th Century, when the persona of Santa Claus began to gain popularity in the United States, gifts became part of the imagery. Slowly, this trend grew, until in 1924, the department store Macy’s included a Santa in their Thanksgiving Parade and soon after Selfridges started decorating its shop front window for Christmas, urging customers to buy stuff around Christmas time.

In the mid 19th Century, when the persona of Santa Claus began to gain popularity in the United States, gifts became part of the imagery. Slowly, this trend grew, until in 1924, the department store Macy’s included a Santa in their Thanksgiving Parade and soon after Selfridges started decorating its shop front window for Christmas, urging customers to buy stuff around Christmas time. Until then, Christmas had been a family function, not the crazy commercial shopping extravaganza that it has now grown into in the West. Over the past 100-odd years, gift giving has become a competitive, exhausting activity, so much so that the American mom fretting over lists of who gets what gift in the holiday season has become a cliché in popular entertainment. Commercialisation of Christmas and the whole forced cheer of a Santa lookalike in every high street store is known to psychologically affect all the lonely people who do not feel so ho-ho-ho. It led to the creation of the oxymoronic phrase “holiday season blues” to indicate how those who are single or are not able to be with their families, end up feeling lonely and depressed, watching the hyper celebrations of others. The culture of conspicuous consumption is also leaving out all the poorer people of rich countries who cannot afford to go on a buying spree. So the effects of this practice have implications for many sections of society. But the governments of these countries are not interfering and ordering a trial ban on gift purchases or limiting gift buying to one weekend only during the holiday season. I am obviously drawing a parallel to our own courts intervening in how festivals should be celebrated. In India, we have been told that not lighting crackers on Diwali is no big deal because crackers were not always there and got added on Diwali about a hundred years ago for commercial reasons by some Sivakasi businessmen. Well, there are Mughal miniature paintings showing lighting of sparklers on Diwali and historical records that go back much further. If you check in any family, at least three generations will attest to having burst crackers on Diwali as children. That’s enough of a tradition, even if you don’t want to delve into history. In one fell swoop, being dismissive of a tradition that has endured all through living memory of most people, is disrespectful, to put it mildly. So I get it that crackers are harmful to the environment. But I have to roll my eyes at this because everyday, on the road I see at least one auto, two-wheeler, tempos or truck spewing black exhaust with impunity right on the face of the car behind and whizz past. We have to slow down and let the offender pass in order to avoid the toxic cloud. In the construction frenzy that prevails in NCR throughout the year, dust clouds are always rising around the whizzing cement churner and JCB when one passes any under-construction building of which there are hundreds around Delhi. These are perineal sources of air pollution while crackers happen for a few hours annually. Are crackers the main culprit or are the people who find a few hours of pleasure in them, ie, typically children celebrating Diwali, just easy prey to impose rules on? An activist for air quality has been quoted saying crackers were “low hanging fruit”. That’s another word for soft targets. The high hanging fruit —those in the construction business or truck owners or stubble-burning farmers who are potential vote banks — are too prickly to be touched. How about cigarette smoke? Tobacco smoke particles and outdoor PM2.5 pollution share some similar chemical compounds and have a similar role in cancer causation. A controlled experiment in Italy found that fine particulate matter emitted by cigarettes is 10 times greater than diesel car exhaust. But who can dare to say that cigarettes can only be smoked for a few hours, as specified by the court, to help reduce air pollution? Yes, crackers add to air pollution. But there are bigger fish in the sea who are the main wrongdoers! No one is meddling with them because there are powerful lobbies, money and vote banks involved. Crackers are a lesser evil, but they are being targeted because their users are children and families who will meekly comply. It is this bias that jars. It is a bit like the income tax department threatening small entrepreneurs and white collared workers while beer barons and diamond czars have flown the coop. The nanny State interfering in all aspects of life is anyway pointless. Everywhere one hears people asking “But how are they going to ensure no one lights a cracker after 10 pm? Is the police coming to each verandah to check?” (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Cracker regulations aimed at soft targets, not powerful lobbies

Delhiites breathed easy on Sunday after air quality significantly improved due to increased wind speed and control measures implemented by the government.&nbsp;

The overall air quality index (AQI) at 4 pm Sunday was recorded at 171, which falls in the 'moderate' category. In the morning it was 231, which falls in the 'poor' category, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data said.

The improvement in air quality can be attributed to the increase in surface wind speed to five kmph. This flushed out pollutants, an official of the Centre-run System of Air Quality Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) said.&nbsp;

The reduction in base emission is also suggestive of more pronounced effect of control measures taken by authorities, the official said. 
On Friday, the AQI was 370, which came down to 336 on Saturday, according to the CPCB.

It has been found that PM 2.5 emission reduced "from 432 ton per day to 370 ton per day to reproduce the observed level with realistic met parameters, a decline in base emission by 14 per cent in Delhi and nearby domain", the official said.

PM 2.5 are particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres.

The SAFAR also said there is a large possibility of increase in moisture from Monday evening, which might lead to increase in the pollution level.

"The AQI is predicted to be in the lower range of very poor Monday as the atmosphere is relatively clean," the official said.

The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) said fire counts in the northwest region of India were significantly less on Saturday as compared to Thursday, but warned of sharp increase in PM2.5 concentration from Monday.

"If significant stubble burning continues on Sunday and Monday in the NW (northwest) region of India then its impact is very likely over Delhi and AQI may reach the upper end of the very poor category.&nbsp;

"The northwest wind direction may bring influence of biomass fire on Tuesday and Wednesday," the IITM said.

Delhi authorities have stepped up efforts to combat pollution which includes measures like halting construction activities and regulating traffic.

There is a halt on all construction activities involving excavation. Civil construction has also been suspended in Delhi and other NCR districts, besides closure of all stone crushers and hot mix plants generating dust pollution.

The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has also directed the Transport Department and the Traffic Police to intensify checking of polluting vehicles and control travel congestion in the region during November 1-10.

An aggressive 10-day-long 'Clean Air Campaign' from November 1 to 10 has also been launched to monitor and report polluting activities as well as to ensure quick action.

On Sunday, a total fine of Rs 83,55,000 was imposed on violators by the teams deployed to monitor implementation of measures to combat pollution in the Delhi NCR under the campaign.

A total penalty of Rs 80 lakh was imposed on violators on Friday and Saturday.

Teams are visiting different parts of Delhi and adjacent towns of Faridabad, Gurugram, Ghaziabad and Noida.

Delhiites welcomed the improvement in the air quality which has been severe for the last three weeks .

"I have sent my children to play outside after weeks. I hope the air quality finally improves and we see a clean Diwali," said Sarita Mathur, a Mayur Vihar resident.

Another resident, Ritu Kumar, said she has gone on a walk for the first time this month due to improved air quality.

D Saha, former additional director and head of air quality management division at the CPCB, said, "No drastic change in pollution level is anticipated as the ground level emissions are under control due to various administrative and regulatory measures, we are likely to have clean Diwali."

Delhiites breathed easy on Sunday after air quality significantly improved due to increased wind speed and control measures implemented by the government. The overall air quality index (AQI) at 4 pm Sunday was recorded at 171, which falls in the 'moderate' category.

Delhiites breathed easy on Sunday after air quality significantly improved due to increased wind speed and control measures implemented by the government. The overall air quality index (AQI) at 4 pm Sunday was recorded at 171, which falls in the 'moderate' category. In the morning it was 231, which falls in the 'poor' category, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data said. The improvement in air quality can be attributed to the increase in surface wind speed to five kmph. This flushed out pollutants, an official of the Centre-run System of Air Quality Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) said. The reduction in base emission is also suggestive of more pronounced effect of control measures taken by authorities, the official said. On Friday, the AQI was 370, which came down to 336 on Saturday, according to the CPCB. It has been found that PM 2.5 emission reduced "from 432 ton per day to 370 ton per day to reproduce the observed level with realistic met parameters, a decline in base emission by 14 per cent in Delhi and nearby domain", the official said. PM 2.5 are particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres. The SAFAR also said there is a large possibility of increase in moisture from Monday evening, which might lead to increase in the pollution level. "The AQI is predicted to be in the lower range of very poor Monday as the atmosphere is relatively clean," the official said. The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) said fire counts in the northwest region of India were significantly less on Saturday as compared to Thursday, but warned of sharp increase in PM2.5 concentration from Monday. "If significant stubble burning continues on Sunday and Monday in the NW (northwest) region of India then its impact is very likely over Delhi and AQI may reach the upper end of the very poor category. "The northwest wind direction may bring influence of biomass fire on Tuesday and Wednesday," the IITM said. Delhi authorities have stepped up efforts to combat pollution which includes measures like halting construction activities and regulating traffic. There is a halt on all construction activities involving excavation. Civil construction has also been suspended in Delhi and other NCR districts, besides closure of all stone crushers and hot mix plants generating dust pollution. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has also directed the Transport Department and the Traffic Police to intensify checking of polluting vehicles and control travel congestion in the region during November 1-10. An aggressive 10-day-long 'Clean Air Campaign' from November 1 to 10 has also been launched to monitor and report polluting activities as well as to ensure quick action. On Sunday, a total fine of Rs 83,55,000 was imposed on violators by the teams deployed to monitor implementation of measures to combat pollution in the Delhi NCR under the campaign. A total penalty of Rs 80 lakh was imposed on violators on Friday and Saturday. Teams are visiting different parts of Delhi and adjacent towns of Faridabad, Gurugram, Ghaziabad and Noida. Delhiites welcomed the improvement in the air quality which has been severe for the last three weeks . "I have sent my children to play outside after weeks. I hope the air quality finally improves and we see a clean Diwali," said Sarita Mathur, a Mayur Vihar resident. Another resident, Ritu Kumar, said she has gone on a walk for the first time this month due to improved air quality. D Saha, former additional director and head of air quality management division at the CPCB, said, "No drastic change in pollution level is anticipated as the ground level emissions are under control due to various administrative and regulatory measures, we are likely to have clean Diwali."

Breather for Delhiites as air quality significantly improves

Why should Indians worry when Deepavali, a festival of joy, approaches? Why should agricultural harvests, once a cause for celebration in all regions of India, make the residents of Delhi groan in despair? Should pregnant Indian women in cities henceforth go to rural areas to deliver and bring up their children? Alarmist as these questions sound, they highlight the grim reality of air pollution in India.

The Global Burden of Disease (2016) ranked air pollution as the second highest contributor to death and disability in India, next only to malnutrition. Both indoor and outdoor (ambient) air pollution pose several acute and chronic threats to health, causing over 1.8 million deaths. A recent WHO report estimates that over 100,000 children die each year from air pollution in India. While indoor pollution had the higher count of deaths two decades ago, ambient air pollution is the bigger killer now according to recent estimates. In reality, both are major killers with both forms of pollution mixing with each other as air flows between homes and the streets.

Fourteen of the world’s 20 most polluted cities are in India. Most of the cities in India, large and small, are in the list of highly polluted urban settlements by global standards. Among all cities in the world, between 1998 and 2016, the largest rise in ambient air pollution (44 per cent) has been recorded in Delhi. Global health agencies as well as economic growth charters worry about India’s smoggy future, as the menace mounts.

Air pollution, from a wide range of sources, damages health through many agents and several pathways, resulting in a multitude of harmful health effects. The complex mixture of pollutants includes carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, lead, arsenic, mercury, sulphur dioxide, poly aromatic hydrocarbons and particulate matter (PM). While the air quality indices and media reports usually inform us about PM10 and PM2.5 permeating through our deeper airways and lungs and damaging them, scientists warn us that ultrafine particles (PM&lt;0.1) penetrate further to enter the blood stream causing further havoc. Even within the PM2.5 category, combustion derived particles are more toxic than those that emanate from construction dust. Ground level ozone too will rise due to secondary chemical effects, hurting the lungs. Air pollutants can also be ingested through contaminated water, food, soil or vegetation on to which the pollutants may settle.&nbsp;

The health effects are manifest in disorders of many organs. The common underlying mechanism is inflammation. Damaged airways and lungs can result in asthma, respiratory infections, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or lung cancer. Cardiovascular disease is now recognised to be particular common, due to blood vessel injury and increased clotting tendency causing heart attacks and paralysing brain strokes. Effects on children is particularly horrendous, because their small airways and lungs are especially vulnerable to toxic injury. Pregnant women may pass pollutants they breathe in to the foetus through placental blood flow, resulting in still birth or a growth retarded baby. Childhood may be blighted by lung and ear infections, with even the risk of childhood cancers like leukaemia and retinoblastoma. Both physical and cognitive growth are affected as both body and brain of the young child are ravaged by the polluted air he or she is forced to breathe. The elderly too are especially vulnerable to the many maladies that air pollution inflicts.

The many sources of air pollution in India include the emissions from vehicular transport, coal consuming thermal power plants, construction dust, burning of agricultural crop residues and garbage, brick kilns and burning of solid biomass fuels for cooking. While the deterioration of air quality is agonised in the media and denounced by an angry public at certain times of the year (Deepavali, post-harvest, winter slowdown of air currents), the fact remains that we breathe polluted air (much above WHO’s cautionary thresholds) even during the rest of the year. The cumulative of such prolonged exposure is likely to be very harmful to health. Alas, even the rural areas in India are recording rising levels of air pollution. Surely, the Himalayas cannot become the refuge of all of India’s population which will soon become the largest in the world!

The health of the economy will also feel the ill effects of air pollution. The physical effects, which range from lassitude to lethal diseases, will hurt productivity. Compromised cognitive brain power, from childhood, will corrode the demographic developmental dividend of our young population. Healthcare costs will escalate &nbsp;as acute and chronic disorders deluge the health services. Investors will shy away from the highly unwelcoming air of the Indian cities.&nbsp;

Piecemeal solutions will not work. All sources of air pollution must be earnestly and effectively tackled, all across the country and all year round. Targets must be set, monitored and accomplished. A national consensus for concerted action against air pollution must emerge from the national distress, binding the central and state governments to time bound actions. The health of the nation is in peril and the future of our children is at stake. It is time for resolute action, not just seasonal lament. 
 
(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the<a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-air-pollution-menace-mounts-2682118"> original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

Why should Indians worry when Deepavali, a festival of joy, approaches? Why should agricultural harvests, once a cause for celebration in all regions of India, make the residents of Delhi groan in despair?

Why should Indians worry when Deepavali, a festival of joy, approaches? Why should agricultural harvests, once a cause for celebration in all regions of India, make the residents of Delhi groan in despair? Should pregnant Indian women in cities henceforth go to rural areas to deliver and bring up their children? Alarmist as these questions sound, they highlight the grim reality of air pollution in India. The Global Burden of Disease (2016) ranked air pollution as the second highest contributor to death and disability in India, next only to malnutrition. Both indoor and outdoor (ambient) air pollution pose several acute and chronic threats to health, causing over 1.8 million deaths. A recent WHO report estimates that over 100,000 children die each year from air pollution in India. While indoor pollution had the higher count of deaths two decades ago, ambient air pollution is the bigger killer now according to recent estimates. In reality, both are major killers with both forms of pollution mixing with each other as air flows between homes and the streets. Fourteen of the world’s 20 most polluted cities are in India. Most of the cities in India, large and small, are in the list of highly polluted urban settlements by global standards. Among all cities in the world, between 1998 and 2016, the largest rise in ambient air pollution (44 per cent) has been recorded in Delhi. Global health agencies as well as economic growth charters worry about India’s smoggy future, as the menace mounts. Air pollution, from a wide range of sources, damages health through many agents and several pathways, resulting in a multitude of harmful health effects. The complex mixture of pollutants includes carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, lead, arsenic, mercury, sulphur dioxide, poly aromatic hydrocarbons and particulate matter (PM). While the air quality indices and media reports usually inform us about PM10 and PM2.5 permeating through our deeper airways and lungs and damaging them, scientists warn us that ultrafine particles (PM<0.1) penetrate further to enter the blood stream causing further havoc. Even within the PM2.5 category, combustion derived particles are more toxic than those that emanate from construction dust. Ground level ozone too will rise due to secondary chemical effects, hurting the lungs. Air pollutants can also be ingested through contaminated water, food, soil or vegetation on to which the pollutants may settle. The health effects are manifest in disorders of many organs. The common underlying mechanism is inflammation. Damaged airways and lungs can result in asthma, respiratory infections, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or lung cancer. Cardiovascular disease is now recognised to be particular common, due to blood vessel injury and increased clotting tendency causing heart attacks and paralysing brain strokes. Effects on children is particularly horrendous, because their small airways and lungs are especially vulnerable to toxic injury. Pregnant women may pass pollutants they breathe in to the foetus through placental blood flow, resulting in still birth or a growth retarded baby. Childhood may be blighted by lung and ear infections, with even the risk of childhood cancers like leukaemia and retinoblastoma. Both physical and cognitive growth are affected as both body and brain of the young child are ravaged by the polluted air he or she is forced to breathe. The elderly too are especially vulnerable to the many maladies that air pollution inflicts. The many sources of air pollution in India include the emissions from vehicular transport, coal consuming thermal power plants, construction dust, burning of agricultural crop residues and garbage, brick kilns and burning of solid biomass fuels for cooking. While the deterioration of air quality is agonised in the media and denounced by an angry public at certain times of the year (Deepavali, post-harvest, winter slowdown of air currents), the fact remains that we breathe polluted air (much above WHO’s cautionary thresholds) even during the rest of the year. The cumulative of such prolonged exposure is likely to be very harmful to health. Alas, even the rural areas in India are recording rising levels of air pollution. Surely, the Himalayas cannot become the refuge of all of India’s population which will soon become the largest in the world! The health of the economy will also feel the ill effects of air pollution. The physical effects, which range from lassitude to lethal diseases, will hurt productivity. Compromised cognitive brain power, from childhood, will corrode the demographic developmental dividend of our young population. Healthcare costs will escalate as acute and chronic disorders deluge the health services. Investors will shy away from the highly unwelcoming air of the Indian cities. Piecemeal solutions will not work. All sources of air pollution must be earnestly and effectively tackled, all across the country and all year round. Targets must be set, monitored and accomplished. A national consensus for concerted action against air pollution must emerge from the national distress, binding the central and state governments to time bound actions. The health of the nation is in peril and the future of our children is at stake. It is time for resolute action, not just seasonal lament. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Air pollution: It's time for resolute action

The Delhi government on Thursday told the Supreme Court that it has deregistered 40 lakh vehicles, out of a total of 1.1 crore, which include <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-pollution-hits-emergency-level-again-24027">vehicles running on petrol</a> and diesel that are over 15 years and 10 years old respectively.

A bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur said that the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-holds-breath-as-burning-farms-herald-pollution-season-172590">National Green Tribunal</a> (NGT) and the apex court had passed an order three-and-a-half years ago, directing all 15-year-old petrol vehicles and 10-year-old diesel vehicles to be barred from the city’s roads, adding that there has been no initiative from the Delhi government so far to implement the order.

The counsel appearing for the Delhi government informed the bench that in compliance with the order, as many as 40 lakh vehicles have been deregistered under the Motor Vehicle Act.

The Delhi government further said the by December 30, Radio and Frequency Identification Devices (RFID) will be installed at 13 entry points in the city in order to check entry of commercial vehicles.

The top court ordered that priority should be given to the entry points with high congestion of vehicles coming from different cities.

"You should give priority to congested entry points where entry of commercial vehicles are high because that will have a greater impact," Justice Lokur said.

Amicus Curiae advocate Aparajita, assisting the court in the air pollution matter, told the bench that there was rampant corruption at entry points of commercial vehicles and, as per a report, the number of vehicles and collection of money did not match.

With the installation of RFIDs for commercial vehicle, everything will be automated so that human interference is avoided, the lawyer added.

Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) also told the court that accounts on Facebook and Twitter have been created to allow citizens to complain about pollution. It has received 18 complaints so far.

The top court asked the CPCB to publicise the social media sites and set November 26 as the date for further hearing in matters related to air pollution.

Earlier, the apex court had directed the CPCB to open social media account so that citizens can complain about pollution.

The Delhi government on Thursday told the Supreme Court that it has deregistered 40 lakh vehicles, out of a total of 1.1 crore, which include vehicles running on petrol and diesel that are over 15 years and 10 years old respectively.

The Delhi government on Thursday told the Supreme Court that it has deregistered 40 lakh vehicles, out of a total of 1.1 crore, which include vehicles running on petrol and diesel that are over 15 years and 10 years old respectively. A bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur said that the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and the apex court had passed an order three-and-a-half years ago, directing all 15-year-old petrol vehicles and 10-year-old diesel vehicles to be barred from the city’s roads, adding that there has been no initiative from the Delhi government so far to implement the order. The counsel appearing for the Delhi government informed the bench that in compliance with the order, as many as 40 lakh vehicles have been deregistered under the Motor Vehicle Act. The Delhi government further said the by December 30, Radio and Frequency Identification Devices (RFID) will be installed at 13 entry points in the city in order to check entry of commercial vehicles. The top court ordered that priority should be given to the entry points with high congestion of vehicles coming from different cities. "You should give priority to congested entry points where entry of commercial vehicles are high because that will have a greater impact," Justice Lokur said. Amicus Curiae advocate Aparajita, assisting the court in the air pollution matter, told the bench that there was rampant corruption at entry points of commercial vehicles and, as per a report, the number of vehicles and collection of money did not match. With the installation of RFIDs for commercial vehicle, everything will be automated so that human interference is avoided, the lawyer added. Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) also told the court that accounts on Facebook and Twitter have been created to allow citizens to complain about pollution. It has received 18 complaints so far. The top court asked the CPCB to publicise the social media sites and set November 26 as the date for further hearing in matters related to air pollution. Earlier, the apex court had directed the CPCB to open social media account so that citizens can complain about pollution.

40 lakh old vehicles de-registered in Delhi: Govt tells Supreme Court

Delhi air quality turns 'severe'

19 out of top 20 most polluted cities in the world from India

Delhi recorded its worst air quality of this season on Sunday as a thick haze engulfed the national capital which continued to grapple with deteriorating air quality.

The overall Air Quality Index of the national capital was recorded at 381 which falls in the very poor category, the highest of this season and just points below severe pollution level, according to data by the Central Pollution Control Board.

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe".

Twelve pollution monitoring stations located in various parts of Delhi recorded severe air quality while 20 stations recorded very poor air quality, according to data by the Central Pollution Control Board.

Authorities attribute the dip in air quality to localised factors like construction dust, vehicular pollution as well as regional factors like pollution due stubble burning from Punjab and Haryana.

A thick haze due to smog engulfed the national capital which recorded the worst air quality of this season, authorities said.

A CPCB-led task force has recommended to Supreme Court-appointed Environment Pollution Control Authority implementation of stringent measures from November 1 to 10, predicting further deterioration in the air quality ahead of Diwali.

Some of these recommendations include shut down of coal and biomass factories, intensification of inspection by the transport department to check polluting vehicles and control traffic congestion in Delhi NCR during November 1-10.

The task force also issued an advisory to the public, asking them to avoid outdoor strenuous activities and minimise the use of private vehicles.

The task force also warned that at beginning of November the situation may get further deteriorated on account of localised emissions duringthe festival and regional contribution due to stubble burning.

The PM2.5 (presence of particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres) was recorded at 225, the highest of this season. The PM2.5, also called "fine particulates," can be a matter of more serious health concern than PM10.

The PM10 level (presence of particles in the air with a diameter of less than 10 micrometres) in Delhi stood at 418, according to the CPCB data.

SAFAR&nbsp;also issued a heath advisory, urging people with heart or lung disease, older adults and children to avoid prolonged or heavy exertion.

It also recommended people to go for shorter walks instead of jogs, keeping windows closed and wearing masks while stepping outside.&nbsp;

Delhi recorded its worst air quality of this season on Sunday as a thick haze engulfed the national capital which continued to grapple with deteriorating air quality.

Delhi recorded its worst air quality of this season on Sunday as a thick haze engulfed the national capital which continued to grapple with deteriorating air quality. The overall Air Quality Index of the national capital was recorded at 381 which falls in the very poor category, the highest of this season and just points below severe pollution level, according to data by the Central Pollution Control Board. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe". Twelve pollution monitoring stations located in various parts of Delhi recorded severe air quality while 20 stations recorded very poor air quality, according to data by the Central Pollution Control Board. Authorities attribute the dip in air quality to localised factors like construction dust, vehicular pollution as well as regional factors like pollution due stubble burning from Punjab and Haryana. A thick haze due to smog engulfed the national capital which recorded the worst air quality of this season, authorities said. A CPCB-led task force has recommended to Supreme Court-appointed Environment Pollution Control Authority implementation of stringent measures from November 1 to 10, predicting further deterioration in the air quality ahead of Diwali. Some of these recommendations include shut down of coal and biomass factories, intensification of inspection by the transport department to check polluting vehicles and control traffic congestion in Delhi NCR during November 1-10. The task force also issued an advisory to the public, asking them to avoid outdoor strenuous activities and minimise the use of private vehicles. The task force also warned that at beginning of November the situation may get further deteriorated on account of localised emissions duringthe festival and regional contribution due to stubble burning. The PM2.5 (presence of particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres) was recorded at 225, the highest of this season. The PM2.5, also called "fine particulates," can be a matter of more serious health concern than PM10. The PM10 level (presence of particles in the air with a diameter of less than 10 micrometres) in Delhi stood at 418, according to the CPCB data. SAFAR also issued a heath advisory, urging people with heart or lung disease, older adults and children to avoid prolonged or heavy exertion. It also recommended people to go for shorter walks instead of jogs, keeping windows closed and wearing masks while stepping outside.

Delhi records worst air quality of season as haze engulfs national capital: Authorities

People residing in the national capital woke up to a hazy morning on Friday, a day when the region's Air Quality Index (AQI) was rated as 'Very Poor' at 343 by System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research.

The AQI between 0 to 50 is considered good, 51 and 100 falls under the category of 'satisfactory', 101-200 is marked as 'moderate', 201 to 300 'poor', 301 to 400 'very poor' and 500 and beyond is considered as 'severe'.

The organisation has predicted that the air quality of Delhi will continue to remain in the 'very poor'category for the next three days.

In Gujarat's Ahmedabad too, the air quality has plummeted to 'poor' category.

SAFAR in its advisory has adviced people living in polluted cities to wear masks known as N-95 pr P-100 respirators. It has also advised people to avoid all physical activity outdoors and move activities indoors.

"Avoid prolonged or heavy exertion. If the air conditioner provides a fresh air intake option, keep that closed," he added.

In Mumbai, the air quality remained in the moderate category with PM 10 at 158.

Experts have predicted that for the next few days the air quality will remain in the same quality between 150 to 158 at PM 10.

If one looks closely, the effects of air pollution on health are vast and serious.

According to research conducted by Lancet Planetary Health, air pollution is not only the cause of respiratory diseases but can also trigger the onset of diabetes. The research further revealed that out of 7 every one new case of diabetes is caused by air pollution alone. It claimed that pollution contributed to 3.2 million new diabetes cases globally in 2016.

People residing in the national capital woke up to a hazy morning on Friday, a day when the region's Air Quality Index (AQI) was rated as 'Very Poor' at 343 by System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research.

People residing in the national capital woke up to a hazy morning on Friday, a day when the region's Air Quality Index (AQI) was rated as 'Very Poor' at 343 by System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research. The AQI between 0 to 50 is considered good, 51 and 100 falls under the category of 'satisfactory', 101-200 is marked as 'moderate', 201 to 300 'poor', 301 to 400 'very poor' and 500 and beyond is considered as 'severe'. The organisation has predicted that the air quality of Delhi will continue to remain in the 'very poor'category for the next three days. In Gujarat's Ahmedabad too, the air quality has plummeted to 'poor' category. SAFAR in its advisory has adviced people living in polluted cities to wear masks known as N-95 pr P-100 respirators. It has also advised people to avoid all physical activity outdoors and move activities indoors. "Avoid prolonged or heavy exertion. If the air conditioner provides a fresh air intake option, keep that closed," he added. In Mumbai, the air quality remained in the moderate category with PM 10 at 158. Experts have predicted that for the next few days the air quality will remain in the same quality between 150 to 158 at PM 10. If one looks closely, the effects of air pollution on health are vast and serious. According to research conducted by Lancet Planetary Health, air pollution is not only the cause of respiratory diseases but can also trigger the onset of diabetes. The research further revealed that out of 7 every one new case of diabetes is caused by air pollution alone. It claimed that pollution contributed to 3.2 million new diabetes cases globally in 2016.

Delhi air quality remains 'very poor', unlikely to change

The air quality of Delhi and neighbouring areas dipped to 'very poor' as average Air Quality Index (AQI) hit 328 on Wednesday.

On a scale of 0–500, an AQI value between 301 and 400 indicates ‘very poor’ air quality. By 2 pm&nbsp;several areas in Delhi, including Anand Vihar, Mundaka, Bawana and Rohini, were reeling under ‘severe’ pollution with AQI levels breaching the 400 mark.

Pollution shot up to a four-month high enveloping the national capital in a haze due to unfavourable weather conditions.

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe".

The government official blamed the deterioration in air quality to a “very poor” level across much of the city on a fall in temperature and lighter wind, as both seasonal changes allow pollution to accumulate.

The official - speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the situation - said air quality would continue to worsen around Diwali, which falls on Nov. 7.

Pollution levels will be exacerbated as farmers in areas close to Delhi burn crop residue in preparation for new planting and people let off fireworks to mark the Diwali festival.
<img alt="Stubble burning" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e7362759-53cd-4eba-bbed-76443d893c69" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/stubble%20burning%20in%20punjab.JPG" />
File photo: A farmer burns the stubble in a rice field in Zirakpur in the northern state of Punjab. (Reuters Photo)

“We are heading into a deadly cocktail with Diwali and peak stubble burning time,” the official said.&nbsp;

“If we come back into the ‘poor’ category of pollution, it will be a very big achievement.” &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Late last year, Delhi and a large part of northern India were covered in a toxic smog from burning crop waste and the countless firecrackers let off for Diwali, forcing authorities to shut power stations, ban construction and clamp down on garbage burning.
<img alt="Pollution" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7504e89e-6d69-4eb0-802a-e2d8ceb80805" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Delhi-pollution.jpg" />
Despite pressure from health experts, the government this year held off on a wholesale ban on fireworks and has faced criticism for failing to prevent farmers in states neighbouring Delhi from burning stubble.&nbsp;

The World Health Organization said this year India was home to the world’s 14 most polluted cities, with Delhi ranked sixth.&nbsp;

“The government has no political will and year after year we get into a narrative around pollution only in the month of October when the situation is really, really bad,” said Vimlendu Jha, an environmentalist who founded the activist group Swechha.

“Almost 320 days out of the 365, Delhi’s air quality is in poor condition but there is no conversation around it.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)

The air quality of Delhi and neighbouring areas dipped to 'very poor' as average Air Quality Index (AQI) hit 328 on Wednesday. On a scale of 0–500, an AQI value between 301 and 400 indicates ‘very poor’ air quality.

The air quality of Delhi and neighbouring areas dipped to 'very poor' as average Air Quality Index (AQI) hit 328 on Wednesday. On a scale of 0–500, an AQI value between 301 and 400 indicates ‘very poor’ air quality. By 2 pm several areas in Delhi, including Anand Vihar, Mundaka, Bawana and Rohini, were reeling under ‘severe’ pollution with AQI levels breaching the 400 mark. Pollution shot up to a four-month high enveloping the national capital in a haze due to unfavourable weather conditions. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe". The government official blamed the deterioration in air quality to a “very poor” level across much of the city on a fall in temperature and lighter wind, as both seasonal changes allow pollution to accumulate. The official - speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the situation - said air quality would continue to worsen around Diwali, which falls on Nov. 7. Pollution levels will be exacerbated as farmers in areas close to Delhi burn crop residue in preparation for new planting and people let off fireworks to mark the Diwali festival. File photo: A farmer burns the stubble in a rice field in Zirakpur in the northern state of Punjab. (Reuters Photo) “We are heading into a deadly cocktail with Diwali and peak stubble burning time,” the official said. “If we come back into the ‘poor’ category of pollution, it will be a very big achievement.” Late last year, Delhi and a large part of northern India were covered in a toxic smog from burning crop waste and the countless firecrackers let off for Diwali, forcing authorities to shut power stations, ban construction and clamp down on garbage burning. Despite pressure from health experts, the government this year held off on a wholesale ban on fireworks and has faced criticism for failing to prevent farmers in states neighbouring Delhi from burning stubble. The World Health Organization said this year India was home to the world’s 14 most polluted cities, with Delhi ranked sixth. “The government has no political will and year after year we get into a narrative around pollution only in the month of October when the situation is really, really bad,” said Vimlendu Jha, an environmentalist who founded the activist group Swechha. “Almost 320 days out of the 365, Delhi’s air quality is in poor condition but there is no conversation around it.” (With inputs from Reuters)

Delhi's air quality drops to 'very poor', pollution shoots to a four-month high

The air quality of Delhi nosedived on Tuesday just a few days after scores of effigies were burned across the region on the occasion of Dussehra.

According to the latest System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) data, the air quality in capital`s Lodhi Road area showed levels of prominent pollutants PM (particulate matter) 10 and PM 2.5 at 237 and 214, respectively.

The AQI between the range of 51 to 100 is considered as satisfactory, 101-200 is moderate, 201-300 falls under the poor category, whereas 401-500 range is severe.

The organisation has adviced the people residing in Delhi to avoid all outdoor physical activities. It has warned all asthmatics to keep relief medicines handy. "Stop any activity level if you experience any usual coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing, breathing difficulty, or fatigue," it added.

On a related note, SAFAR has also conducted a scientific study which revealed that 41 per cent of the pollution in the national capital is caused by the transport sector. It also said that "after transport, wind-blown dust is the second major contributor with 21.5 per cent followed by industries at 18.6 per cent.&nbsp;

The other minor contributors are power and residential sectors contributing about 4.9 and 3 per cent, respectively. Others contribute about 11 per cent.&nbsp;

Residential sector includes slum, crop residue, cow dung, a street vendor, household, DG Set, wood burning, etc while other sectors include MSW Plants, MSW open burning, crematory, aviation, incense sticks, brick kilns".

On the contrary, air quality has shown slight improvement in Mumbai with PM 1o at 137. Though it is not as severe as Delhi but is quite high considering the fact that Mumbai is along the sea.&nbsp;

Tomorrow, air quality is expected to be around 141, SAFAR said.

According to a May 2018 report by the World Health Organisation (WHO), Delhi featured in the list of the 20 most polluted cities in the world.&nbsp;

The air quality of Delhi nosedived on Tuesday just a few days after scores of effigies were burned across the region on the occasion of Dussehra. According to the latest System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) data, the air quality in capital`s Lodhi Road area showed levels of prominent pollutants PM (particulate matter) 10 and PM 2.

The air quality of Delhi nosedived on Tuesday just a few days after scores of effigies were burned across the region on the occasion of Dussehra. According to the latest System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) data, the air quality in capital`s Lodhi Road area showed levels of prominent pollutants PM (particulate matter) 10 and PM 2.5 at 237 and 214, respectively. The AQI between the range of 51 to 100 is considered as satisfactory, 101-200 is moderate, 201-300 falls under the poor category, whereas 401-500 range is severe. The organisation has adviced the people residing in Delhi to avoid all outdoor physical activities. It has warned all asthmatics to keep relief medicines handy. "Stop any activity level if you experience any usual coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing, breathing difficulty, or fatigue," it added. On a related note, SAFAR has also conducted a scientific study which revealed that 41 per cent of the pollution in the national capital is caused by the transport sector. It also said that "after transport, wind-blown dust is the second major contributor with 21.5 per cent followed by industries at 18.6 per cent. The other minor contributors are power and residential sectors contributing about 4.9 and 3 per cent, respectively. Others contribute about 11 per cent. Residential sector includes slum, crop residue, cow dung, a street vendor, household, DG Set, wood burning, etc while other sectors include MSW Plants, MSW open burning, crematory, aviation, incense sticks, brick kilns". On the contrary, air quality has shown slight improvement in Mumbai with PM 1o at 137. Though it is not as severe as Delhi but is quite high considering the fact that Mumbai is along the sea. Tomorrow, air quality is expected to be around 141, SAFAR said. According to a May 2018 report by the World Health Organisation (WHO), Delhi featured in the list of the 20 most polluted cities in the world.

Delhi gasps for breath as air quality dips further

Ten cities in China's northern Hebei province, including top steelmaking city Tangshan, have issued second level or "orange" pollution alerts, forcing industrial plants to cut output.

The alerts would be effective from Friday to Monday, the Hebei government said in a statement.

Heavy industrial plants in the province will need to reduce production by at least 20 per cent under an orange alert.

Tangshan has ordered steel mills in the city to reduce output of their sintering machine and shaft furnaces by half, while coke plants will have to extend their production period in order to reduce toxic emissions.

All mining and casting activities will also be shut down during the alert, Tangshan said.

Smog alerts came after China`s environmental watchdog warned of an expected smog in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region from Oct. 20 to 22 due to adverse weather conditions.

Tangshan on Thursday rolled out production cuts for winter for its 36 steel producers which analysts say look less restrictive than last year, potentially keeping output high.

Ten cities in China's northern Hebei province, including top steelmaking city Tangshan, have issued second level or "orange" pollution alerts, forcing industrial plants to cut output.

Ten cities in China's northern Hebei province, including top steelmaking city Tangshan, have issued second level or "orange" pollution alerts, forcing industrial plants to cut output. The alerts would be effective from Friday to Monday, the Hebei government said in a statement. Heavy industrial plants in the province will need to reduce production by at least 20 per cent under an orange alert. Tangshan has ordered steel mills in the city to reduce output of their sintering machine and shaft furnaces by half, while coke plants will have to extend their production period in order to reduce toxic emissions. All mining and casting activities will also be shut down during the alert, Tangshan said. Smog alerts came after China`s environmental watchdog warned of an expected smog in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region from Oct. 20 to 22 due to adverse weather conditions. Tangshan on Thursday rolled out production cuts for winter for its 36 steel producers which analysts say look less restrictive than last year, potentially keeping output high.

Ten cities in China's Hebei issue smog alerts, including top steel producer

The emergency plan to combat air pollution came into force Monday in the Delhi-NCR where air quality remained poor, even as the Centre claimed that bad air quality days in the city have come down considerably this year.

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which has come into effect for the second year, ensures stringent actions are taken based on the air quality.&nbsp;

Under the plan, measures like mechanised sweeping of roads, ban on garbage burning, pollution control measures at brick kilns and deployment of police to ensure smooth passage of traffic at vulnerable areas are in force in Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) as the air quality lies in the poor category.

Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan, who launched an air quality early warning system for Delhi, said the Badarpur Thermal Power Plant will be closed from October 15.

He also said the number of mechanised road sweeping machines in the national capital will increase from 52 to 64 by November-end.

With farmers already burning stubble, the Environment Ministry said the government has released Rs 591.65 crore to Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi for the promotion of agricultural mechanisation to manage crop residue.

It said the number of active fire detections was less in 2018 when compared to 2017 and 2016.

The air quality in Delhi remained poor with a drop in wind speed, even as authorities predicted further fall in the air quality index of the national capital in the coming days.

The overall air quality index (AQI) recorded at 4 pm Monday was 218 which falls in the poor category, according to Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR). On Saturday, the AQI of the national capital stood at 201.

According to the CPCB website, Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 318, DTU registered 288, ITO recorded 253 and Jahangirpuri recorded an AQI of 311.&nbsp;

An AQI between 0-50 is considered 'good', 51-100 'satisfactory', 101-200 'moderate', 201-300 'poor', 301-400 'very poor', and 401-500 'severe'.

Delhi's neighbouring regions of Faridabad and Gurgaon both recorded poor air quality.

If the air quality deteriorates further to very poor category then additional measures under GRAP like enhancing parking fees 3-4 times and increasing frequency of metro and buses would be implemented, an official with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) said.

It said if the air quality falls in the severe category, measures like increasing frequency of sprinkling of water on roads and identifying road stretch with high dust generation would be implemented.

If the air quality falls to severe plus emergency category, then measures like stopping entry of trucks into Delhi (except essential commodities), stopping construction activities and appointment of a task force to take the decision on any additional steps, including shutting of schools, are implemented.

Union minister Vardhan said the use of water sprinklers and the opening of the Western Peripheral Expressway will bring about a further reduction in pollution.

He said along with the initiatives taken by the government, the participation of the society is imperative.

"With an outlay of Rs 1,151.80 crore under the new Central Sector Scheme, the Centre has already released Rs 591.65 crore to Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi for the promotion of agricultural mechanization for in-situ management of crop residue," an official statement quoting Vardhan said.

The minister said 41 teams of the CPCB have been deployed in Delhi and NCR cities of Ghaziabad, NOIDA, Gurgaon and Faridabad to monitor and supervise dust mitigation and other air pollution abatement measures to ensure effective compliance while terming them as "eyes and ears" of his ministry.

He also said the use of water sprinklers and the opening of the expressway will bring about a further reduction in pollution.

Union Environment secretary C K Mishra said the number of "Good, Satisfactory and Moderate" days was 157 in 2018 (Up to October 13) compared to 150 in 2017 and 107 in 2016 during the corresponding period.

He added that similarly, the number of "Poor, Very Poor and Severe days" have come down from 167 in 2016 to 136 in 2017 to 129 in 2018 during the corresponding period.

Comparing the PM10 and PM2.5 levels, Mishra underlined that both PM 10 and PM 2.5 have shown a significant reduction in the winter months (September-October) this year compared to last year.

"There is a reduction of 46 per cent in PM10 levels in September 2018 compared to last year and a 15 per cent reduction in October.&nbsp;

"There is a reduction of 28 per cent in the PM2.5 levels in September 2018 compared to last year and a reduction of 22 per cent in October," Mishra said.

He said the number of active fire detections in 2018 is less in comparison to 207 and 2016 till October 14, 2018.&nbsp;

"The numbers are 75 per cent lower than last year in Punjab and 40 per cent lower in case of Haryana," he said.&nbsp;

The emergency plan to combat air pollution came into force Monday in the Delhi-NCR where air quality remained poor, even as the Centre claimed that bad air quality days in the city have come down considerably this year.

The emergency plan to combat air pollution came into force Monday in the Delhi-NCR where air quality remained poor, even as the Centre claimed that bad air quality days in the city have come down considerably this year. The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which has come into effect for the second year, ensures stringent actions are taken based on the air quality. Under the plan, measures like mechanised sweeping of roads, ban on garbage burning, pollution control measures at brick kilns and deployment of police to ensure smooth passage of traffic at vulnerable areas are in force in Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) as the air quality lies in the poor category. Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan, who launched an air quality early warning system for Delhi, said the Badarpur Thermal Power Plant will be closed from October 15. He also said the number of mechanised road sweeping machines in the national capital will increase from 52 to 64 by November-end. With farmers already burning stubble, the Environment Ministry said the government has released Rs 591.65 crore to Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi for the promotion of agricultural mechanisation to manage crop residue. It said the number of active fire detections was less in 2018 when compared to 2017 and 2016. The air quality in Delhi remained poor with a drop in wind speed, even as authorities predicted further fall in the air quality index of the national capital in the coming days. The overall air quality index (AQI) recorded at 4 pm Monday was 218 which falls in the poor category, according to Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR). On Saturday, the AQI of the national capital stood at 201. According to the CPCB website, Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 318, DTU registered 288, ITO recorded 253 and Jahangirpuri recorded an AQI of 311. An AQI between 0-50 is considered 'good', 51-100 'satisfactory', 101-200 'moderate', 201-300 'poor', 301-400 'very poor', and 401-500 'severe'. Delhi's neighbouring regions of Faridabad and Gurgaon both recorded poor air quality. If the air quality deteriorates further to very poor category then additional measures under GRAP like enhancing parking fees 3-4 times and increasing frequency of metro and buses would be implemented, an official with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) said. It said if the air quality falls in the severe category, measures like increasing frequency of sprinkling of water on roads and identifying road stretch with high dust generation would be implemented. If the air quality falls to severe plus emergency category, then measures like stopping entry of trucks into Delhi (except essential commodities), stopping construction activities and appointment of a task force to take the decision on any additional steps, including shutting of schools, are implemented. Union minister Vardhan said the use of water sprinklers and the opening of the Western Peripheral Expressway will bring about a further reduction in pollution. He said along with the initiatives taken by the government, the participation of the society is imperative. "With an outlay of Rs 1,151.80 crore under the new Central Sector Scheme, the Centre has already released Rs 591.65 crore to Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi for the promotion of agricultural mechanization for in-situ management of crop residue," an official statement quoting Vardhan said. The minister said 41 teams of the CPCB have been deployed in Delhi and NCR cities of Ghaziabad, NOIDA, Gurgaon and Faridabad to monitor and supervise dust mitigation and other air pollution abatement measures to ensure effective compliance while terming them as "eyes and ears" of his ministry. He also said the use of water sprinklers and the opening of the expressway will bring about a further reduction in pollution. Union Environment secretary C K Mishra said the number of "Good, Satisfactory and Moderate" days was 157 in 2018 (Up to October 13) compared to 150 in 2017 and 107 in 2016 during the corresponding period. He added that similarly, the number of "Poor, Very Poor and Severe days" have come down from 167 in 2016 to 136 in 2017 to 129 in 2018 during the corresponding period. Comparing the PM10 and PM2.5 levels, Mishra underlined that both PM 10 and PM 2.5 have shown a significant reduction in the winter months (September-October) this year compared to last year. "There is a reduction of 46 per cent in PM10 levels in September 2018 compared to last year and a 15 per cent reduction in October. "There is a reduction of 28 per cent in the PM2.5 levels in September 2018 compared to last year and a reduction of 22 per cent in October," Mishra said. He said the number of active fire detections in 2018 is less in comparison to 207 and 2016 till October 14, 2018. "The numbers are 75 per cent lower than last year in Punjab and 40 per cent lower in case of Haryana," he said.

Pollution-control action plan comes into force in Delhi-NCR, air quality remains poor

The German government will Tuesday present its compromise on the way forward for millions of people with older, more polluting diesel cars, with manufacturers potentially facing a steep bill for the crisis precipitated by an emissions cheating scandal.

After Chancellor Angela Merkel and key ministers deliberated late into Monday night, her conservative CDU/CSU alliance and coalition partners the Social Democrats (SPD) announced "a concept for clean air and to secure mobility in our cities". Details are to be presented Tuesday.

The diesel summit aimed to purge city air of pollutants while sparing car owners additional costs.

At stake are potentially billions of euros in trade-in bonuses for buyers of new cars and costs to refit older vehicles, as well as the future of the auto sector and its 800,000 jobs.

Major cities Hamburg and Stuttgart have closed parts of their territory to older diesels and court-ordered bans are looming elsewhere.

Above all, "we want to avoid further driving bans," Transport Minister Andreas Scheuer told news agency DPA ahead of the start of the meeting on Monday evening.

Manufacturers could, however, face a steep bill, with SPD Environment Minister Svenja Schulze stressing that it was "the car industry that got us into trouble, and it should pay for it".

Three years have passed since Volkswagen's 2015 admission to installing cheating devices in 11 million vehicles worldwide, allowing them to secretly spew far more harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) than legally permitted.

Since then, other carmakers like BMW and Daimler have been targeted in official probes and forced to recall thousands of vehicles.

Caught in a vice

Some 70 German cities recorded levels of nitrogen oxide (NOx) -- which can cause respiratory illnesses and heart problems -- above EU thresholds in 2017, according to the Federal Environment Agency.

Politicians face pressure from activists to use bans and other harsh measures to prevent thousands of premature deaths the fumes are estimated to cause each year.

On the other hand, diesel drivers are anxious not to see their vehicles' value tumble.

And car industry chiefs say they need to hold onto their cash as they look to invest in staying competitive with challengers from the US and China.

Many in Merkel's conservative CDU/CSU alliance and car executives would prefer to sell millions of new cars to replace more polluting older models.

"The fastest and best way for the environment is to replace the old fleet with a new one," the chancellor said Thursday.

With tighter limits on emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) biting in the EU from 2021, manufacturers are eager to get as many of their newest, cleanest cars on the road as possible.

'Customer should not pay'

Merkel promised "possibilities for some to obtain a refit" in the final deal, adding that "in this case, we believe that the customer should not have to pay anything".

Manufacturers showed some signs of movement Monday, Scheuer said, offering between 4,000 and 8,000 euros ($4,630 to $9,260) to owners looking to trade in their vehicles for the latest models.

It was not clear whether trade-in incentives would be targeted at owners in only the most polluted cities or nationwide.

And manufacturers were less open to footing the full bill to refit older cars with more effective exhaust treatment systems.

In a further sore point, foreign carmakers have so far ruled out funding refits.

The contrast between carmakers' ability to dig in their heels in Europe, compared with Volkswagen's mammoth bill for fixes and buybacks in the United States, has riled consumer advocates.

Dieselgate has so far cost VW 27 billion euros in compensation, buybacks, fines and legal costs -- much of it in the US -- and the group remains entangled in legal woes at home and abroad.

Nevertheless, it booked 11.4 billion euros in profit for 2017.

The German government will Tuesday present its compromise on the way forward for millions of people with older, more polluting diesel cars, with manufacturers potentially facing a steep bill for the crisis precipitated by an emissions cheating scandal.

The German government will Tuesday present its compromise on the way forward for millions of people with older, more polluting diesel cars, with manufacturers potentially facing a steep bill for the crisis precipitated by an emissions cheating scandal. After Chancellor Angela Merkel and key ministers deliberated late into Monday night, her conservative CDU/CSU alliance and coalition partners the Social Democrats (SPD) announced "a concept for clean air and to secure mobility in our cities". Details are to be presented Tuesday. The diesel summit aimed to purge city air of pollutants while sparing car owners additional costs. At stake are potentially billions of euros in trade-in bonuses for buyers of new cars and costs to refit older vehicles, as well as the future of the auto sector and its 800,000 jobs. Major cities Hamburg and Stuttgart have closed parts of their territory to older diesels and court-ordered bans are looming elsewhere. Above all, "we want to avoid further driving bans," Transport Minister Andreas Scheuer told news agency DPA ahead of the start of the meeting on Monday evening. Manufacturers could, however, face a steep bill, with SPD Environment Minister Svenja Schulze stressing that it was "the car industry that got us into trouble, and it should pay for it". Three years have passed since Volkswagen's 2015 admission to installing cheating devices in 11 million vehicles worldwide, allowing them to secretly spew far more harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) than legally permitted. Since then, other carmakers like BMW and Daimler have been targeted in official probes and forced to recall thousands of vehicles. Caught in a vice Some 70 German cities recorded levels of nitrogen oxide (NOx) -- which can cause respiratory illnesses and heart problems -- above EU thresholds in 2017, according to the Federal Environment Agency. Politicians face pressure from activists to use bans and other harsh measures to prevent thousands of premature deaths the fumes are estimated to cause each year. On the other hand, diesel drivers are anxious not to see their vehicles' value tumble. And car industry chiefs say they need to hold onto their cash as they look to invest in staying competitive with challengers from the US and China. Many in Merkel's conservative CDU/CSU alliance and car executives would prefer to sell millions of new cars to replace more polluting older models. "The fastest and best way for the environment is to replace the old fleet with a new one," the chancellor said Thursday. With tighter limits on emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) biting in the EU from 2021, manufacturers are eager to get as many of their newest, cleanest cars on the road as possible. 'Customer should not pay' Merkel promised "possibilities for some to obtain a refit" in the final deal, adding that "in this case, we believe that the customer should not have to pay anything". Manufacturers showed some signs of movement Monday, Scheuer said, offering between 4,000 and 8,000 euros ($4,630 to $9,260) to owners looking to trade in their vehicles for the latest models. It was not clear whether trade-in incentives would be targeted at owners in only the most polluted cities or nationwide. And manufacturers were less open to footing the full bill to refit older cars with more effective exhaust treatment systems. In a further sore point, foreign carmakers have so far ruled out funding refits. The contrast between carmakers' ability to dig in their heels in Europe, compared with Volkswagen's mammoth bill for fixes and buybacks in the United States, has riled consumer advocates. Dieselgate has so far cost VW 27 billion euros in compensation, buybacks, fines and legal costs -- much of it in the US -- and the group remains entangled in legal woes at home and abroad. Nevertheless, it booked 11.4 billion euros in profit for 2017.

Germany to present plan for polluting diesel cars

The Waste-to-Energy Plants at Okhla, Ghazipur and Bawana in the national capital are not complying with emission standards and are causing air pollution, a committee has informed the National Green Tribunal.

A joint inspection committee of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) told a bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice A K Goel that the three plants are non-compliant with respect to the standards of the particulate matter emitted by them.&nbsp;

Taking note of the report, the green panel said if the project proponents fail to maintain the standards, even after rectifying the deficiencies noticed in the joint inspection report, the Central Pollution Control Board may recommend imposition of fine for the environmental damage caused by them.&nbsp;

The NGT also directed the CPCB to send a copy of its report to the project proponents of Okhla, Ghazipur and Bawana Waste-to-Energy Plant for compliance and conduct another inspection within a month in view of the fact that the earlier inspection was carried out in February.&nbsp;

"We do not find any ground to accept the prayer for relieving the Central Pollution Control Board of its requirement in monthly monitoring. If there is a manpower constraint, it is for the CPCB to make any other appropriate arrangement for discharging its functions. This cannot be a ground to avoid responsibility under the binding directions of this tribunal," the bench said.

The tribunal had earlier directed the Delhi government and the civic bodies to submit an action plan for identifying alternative landfill sites and setting up waste-to-energy plants in the city.

It had said it was unfortunate that at a time when the national capital was grappling with the huge quantum of waste to the tune of 14,000 metric tonnes on a daily basis, the authorities were involved in a "blame game" and showing an irresponsible attitude.

With the rapid development and massive urbanisation of the metropolis, the waste generation was increasing on a daily basis which has resulted in the saturation of the existing landfill sites which can handle only up to 7,000 metric tonnes of waste, the tribunal had said.

The Waste-to-Energy Plants at Okhla, Ghazipur and Bawana in the national capital are not complying with emission standards and are causing air pollution, a committee has informed the National Green Tribunal.

The Waste-to-Energy Plants at Okhla, Ghazipur and Bawana in the national capital are not complying with emission standards and are causing air pollution, a committee has informed the National Green Tribunal. A joint inspection committee of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) told a bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice A K Goel that the three plants are non-compliant with respect to the standards of the particulate matter emitted by them. Taking note of the report, the green panel said if the project proponents fail to maintain the standards, even after rectifying the deficiencies noticed in the joint inspection report, the Central Pollution Control Board may recommend imposition of fine for the environmental damage caused by them. The NGT also directed the CPCB to send a copy of its report to the project proponents of Okhla, Ghazipur and Bawana Waste-to-Energy Plant for compliance and conduct another inspection within a month in view of the fact that the earlier inspection was carried out in February. "We do not find any ground to accept the prayer for relieving the Central Pollution Control Board of its requirement in monthly monitoring. If there is a manpower constraint, it is for the CPCB to make any other appropriate arrangement for discharging its functions. This cannot be a ground to avoid responsibility under the binding directions of this tribunal," the bench said. The tribunal had earlier directed the Delhi government and the civic bodies to submit an action plan for identifying alternative landfill sites and setting up waste-to-energy plants in the city. It had said it was unfortunate that at a time when the national capital was grappling with the huge quantum of waste to the tune of 14,000 metric tonnes on a daily basis, the authorities were involved in a "blame game" and showing an irresponsible attitude. With the rapid development and massive urbanisation of the metropolis, the waste generation was increasing on a daily basis which has resulted in the saturation of the existing landfill sites which can handle only up to 7,000 metric tonnes of waste, the tribunal had said.

Three waste-to-energy plants in Delhi causing pollution, NGT orders fresh inspection

Air quality in Delhi on Wednesday moved to the "sever" level following groud-level dust storm in the Western parts of India which have led to a massive increase in coarser particles in the air, the Central Pollution Control Board data showed.

The CPCB data showed that the PM10 (particles with diameter less than 10mm) level was beyond "severe" at 778 in Delhi-NCR area and 824 in Delhi particularly, leading to hazy conditions and limiting visibility.

The air quality hovered in the "moderate" category all last week and rose to "poor" on Monday. &nbsp;On Wednesday morning, air pollution monitoring agency AQICN reported that PM2.5 levels at RK Puram and Okhla Phase II at around 0800 hours were at 660 and 738, respectively. Rohini (838), Wazirpur (858), DTU (849) and Anand Vihar (812) were even worse. Most of the other stations reported readings ranging between 325 and 800.

Moreover, the severe dust storms in Rajasthan and Haryana have also led to many people facing breathing problems in these states due to the suspended dust.

Gufran Beig, a scientist at the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research institute, said the dust storm deteriorated the air quality in Delhi-NCR.

"There was a ground-level dust storm in the western part of the country that increased drastically coarser particles in the air, causing a spike in pollution levels in Delhi," he said.

But the air quality should improve later today, he said.

"Such dust storms accompanied by high-speed winds (30-40 kmph) do not last too long due to which the air quality will return to normal by this evening," Beig added.

An AQI between 0-50 is considered Good, 51-100 Satisfactory, 101-200 Moderate, 201-300 Poor, 301-400 Very Poor, and 401-500 Severe.

he CPCB data showed that the PM10 (particles with diameter less than 10mm) level was beyond "severe" at 778 in Delhi-NCR area and 824 in Delhi particularly, leading to hazy conditions and limiting visibility

Air quality in Delhi on Wednesday moved to the "sever" level following groud-level dust storm in the Western parts of India which have led to a massive increase in coarser particles in the air, the Central Pollution Control Board data showed. The CPCB data showed that the PM10 (particles with diameter less than 10mm) level was beyond "severe" at 778 in Delhi-NCR area and 824 in Delhi particularly, leading to hazy conditions and limiting visibility. The air quality hovered in the "moderate" category all last week and rose to "poor" on Monday. On Wednesday morning, air pollution monitoring agency AQICN reported that PM2.5 levels at RK Puram and Okhla Phase II at around 0800 hours were at 660 and 738, respectively. Rohini (838), Wazirpur (858), DTU (849) and Anand Vihar (812) were even worse. Most of the other stations reported readings ranging between 325 and 800. Moreover, the severe dust storms in Rajasthan and Haryana have also led to many people facing breathing problems in these states due to the suspended dust. Gufran Beig, a scientist at the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research institute, said the dust storm deteriorated the air quality in Delhi-NCR. "There was a ground-level dust storm in the western part of the country that increased drastically coarser particles in the air, causing a spike in pollution levels in Delhi," he said. But the air quality should improve later today, he said. "Such dust storms accompanied by high-speed winds (30-40 kmph) do not last too long due to which the air quality will return to normal by this evening," Beig added. An AQI between 0-50 is considered Good, 51-100 Satisfactory, 101-200 Moderate, 201-300 Poor, 301-400 Very Poor, and 401-500 Severe.

Delhi air quality levels go beyond 'severe' due to dust storm

Water in Ludhiana's Buddha Nulla, also known as Buddha Nala, has turned black due to industrial and chemical waste drained into the stream.&nbsp;

Several deaths have been reported in surrounding villages in the past four years. Cases of deaths reported were triggered due to hepatitis among other diseases.

Buddha Nulla is a seasonal water stream that drains into Sutlej river after passing through Ludhiana, Punjab. It runs through the Malwa region of Punjab.

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Visuals from Buddha Nullah in Ludhiana, where the water has turned black due to industrial & chemical waste that has been drained into the nullah. Several deaths have been reported due to hepatitis & other diseases in surrounding villages in the past four years. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Punjab?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Punjab</a> <a href="https://t.co/TQ8Fo07ENy">pic.twitter.com/TQ8Fo07ENy</a>
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Over the years, the stream has turned into an open drain with most of the industrial and chemical waste from Ludhiana district dumped into it.&nbsp;

Water from Buddha Nullah enters various canals and affects the population of the nearby areas that use it for irrigation purposes.

Despite scores of efforts, the stream has continued to get filthier over the years.&nbsp;

Ludhiana district administration imposed article 144 around the nullah in the year 2009. People were banned from littering and polluting the nullah. The same year, Punjab government allotted Rs 500 million for cleaning the nullah. Illegal encroachments around the stream were removed in August 2009.

An In Situ Bio-Remediation Project was launched to clean the nullah in April 2011.

&nbsp;

An 'In Situ Bio-Remediation Project' was launched to clean the nullah in April 2011

Water in Ludhiana's Buddha Nulla, also known as Buddha Nala, has turned black due to industrial and chemical waste drained into the stream. Several deaths have been reported in surrounding villages in the past four years. Cases of deaths reported were triggered due to hepatitis among other diseases. Buddha Nulla is a seasonal water stream that drains into Sutlej river after passing through Ludhiana, Punjab. It runs through the Malwa region of Punjab. Visuals from Buddha Nullah in Ludhiana, where the water has turned black due to industrial & chemical waste that has been drained into the nullah. Several deaths have been reported due to hepatitis & other diseases in surrounding villages in the past four years. #Punjab pic.twitter.com/TQ8Fo07ENy — ANI (@ANI) May 24, 2018 × Over the years, the stream has turned into an open drain with most of the industrial and chemical waste from Ludhiana district dumped into it. Water from Buddha Nullah enters various canals and affects the population of the nearby areas that use it for irrigation purposes. Despite scores of efforts, the stream has continued to get filthier over the years. Ludhiana district administration imposed article 144 around the nullah in the year 2009. People were banned from littering and polluting the nullah. The same year, Punjab government allotted Rs 500 million for cleaning the nullah. Illegal encroachments around the stream were removed in August 2009. An In Situ Bio-Remediation Project was launched to clean the nullah in April 2011.

Punjab: Water in Buddha Nulla stream turns black due to pollution

India's most famous monument, the white marble Taj Mahal, is "dying" -- according to historians and local guides who are calling for the government to protect and carry out preservation work on the palace.

Pollution in Agra, which has risen sharply over the past 30 years, has been blamed. The city, which sits on an industrial belt, is ranked eighth in the world for the most polluted air, according to a World Health Organisation list earlier this year.

The iconic 17th-century Mughal palace, built by emperor Shah Jahaan in memory of his beloved queen Mumtaj Mahal, is visited by millions every year, including royalty and film stars. But local guides say foreign tourists are dwindling because of the pollution that is lending a yellowish tinge to the walls of the Taj Mahal.

Experts say one of the main causes of increasing pollution and discolouring of Taj Mahal is the drying up of the river Yamuna that flanks the famed marble monument. The pollution from the sewage in the Yamuna has fuelled a growing number of insects, whose excretions, along with the air's impurities have stained the Taj Mahal an ugly yellow.

Exhaust from a large number of vehicles clogging the roads is also making matters worse.

But there is hope yet -- M.C. Mehta, a leading environmental lawyer who has been fighting legal battles to conserve the Taj Mahal for over three decades now, got the top court's support recently. It directed the government to take urgent steps to restore the monument to its original glory and said if authorities did not have the expertise to do so, they should seek foreign help.

Mehta has had previous success. In the 1990s, following Mehta's petition, the Supreme Court ordered the closure of hundreds of factories near the white mausoleum.

For now, restorers from the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) have been using a paste made of a clay mineral, to clean the marble but critics say it has not been effective in preventing the marble from decaying.

Agra, which sits on an industrial belt, is ranked eighth in the world for the most polluted air

India's most famous monument, the white marble Taj Mahal, is "dying" -- according to historians and local guides who are calling for the government to protect and carry out preservation work on the palace. Pollution in Agra, which has risen sharply over the past 30 years, has been blamed. The city, which sits on an industrial belt, is ranked eighth in the world for the most polluted air, according to a World Health Organisation list earlier this year. The iconic 17th-century Mughal palace, built by emperor Shah Jahaan in memory of his beloved queen Mumtaj Mahal, is visited by millions every year, including royalty and film stars. But local guides say foreign tourists are dwindling because of the pollution that is lending a yellowish tinge to the walls of the Taj Mahal. Experts say one of the main causes of increasing pollution and discolouring of Taj Mahal is the drying up of the river Yamuna that flanks the famed marble monument. The pollution from the sewage in the Yamuna has fuelled a growing number of insects, whose excretions, along with the air's impurities have stained the Taj Mahal an ugly yellow. Exhaust from a large number of vehicles clogging the roads is also making matters worse. But there is hope yet -- M.C. Mehta, a leading environmental lawyer who has been fighting legal battles to conserve the Taj Mahal for over three decades now, got the top court's support recently. It directed the government to take urgent steps to restore the monument to its original glory and said if authorities did not have the expertise to do so, they should seek foreign help. Mehta has had previous success. In the 1990s, following Mehta's petition, the Supreme Court ordered the closure of hundreds of factories near the white mausoleum. For now, restorers from the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) have been using a paste made of a clay mineral, to clean the marble but critics say it has not been effective in preventing the marble from decaying.

Pollution is 'killing' Taj Mahal: Report

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