New Delhi: It is one of the most polluted cities in the world. Every year, with the onset of winter, the air quality index (AQI) here reaches “severe” or “hazardous” levels. Experts say that breathing this toxic air is equivalent to smoking 20 cigarettes a day.PALAY® Straw Hat Sun Hats for Women,Wide Brim Cap Beach Hat for Women Stylish UV Protection Cap

Respiratory and cardiovascular diseases have increased significantly. Children and the elderly are suffering from breathing difficulties, throat irritation, and watery eyes. According to a report by the University of Chicago, the life expectancy of Delhi residents could reduce by up to 11 years due to the high pollution levels.

In 2023, around 14% of deaths in Delhi were attributed to air pollution. Due to the dense smog, visibility often drops, disrupting flight and train services. When the situation becomes severe, schools are forced to shut down. Delhi’s geography and climate make the pollution problem even worse. Especially during winter, when wind speeds are low, pollutants remain trapped near the ground.Also Read; Islamabad B*last: India's Sharp Rebuttal to Pakistan's Accusation!

During October and November, farmers in the neighboring states of Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh burn crop residue—paddy stubble and husk—to prepare their fields for the next sowing season. This smoke drifts toward Delhi and creates a thick layer of smog over the city.

The number of vehicles in the Delhi-NCR region is enormous. Emissions from diesel and petrol vehicles, along with fine particulate matter such as PM 2.5 and PM 10, are the major sources of air pollution.

Small-scale industries that use coal and wood, as well as the massive dust and smoke generated by ongoing construction projects, also contribute heavily to pollution.

During festivals like Diwali, the bursting of firecrackers causes PM 2.5 and other pollutant levels to skyrocket overnight to dangerous levels.

Though the government has implemented plans like the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to control pollution, a permanent solution remains elusive.

Measures such as:

The Odd-Even Scheme to regulate vehicular movement,

Smog guns to spray water and control dust at construction sites,

Promotion of green energy as an alternative to coal in industries, and

The Electric Vehicle Policy encouraging the use of EVs,

are being implemented.

However, farmers still lack practical and affordable alternatives for crop residue management. There is weak enforcement of pollution control laws and poor coordination between Delhi and neighboring states.

To overcome its breathing crisis, Delhi must strictly enforce local regulations and establish lasting cooperation with its neighboring states.