The recent protests near India Gate on November 24 highlighted concerns over Delhi's worsening air quality index, which was around 400. Despite the small and peaceful nature of the protest, the government's response was heavy-handed, suggesting a focus on political embarrassment rather than public safety.
Significance of Air Quality Issues
Air quality concerns are often seen as a Delhi-centric issue, but data shows a widespread problem from Islamabad to Bihar, indicating a shared airshed among these regions.
Public and Government Response
- Traditionally, Delhi's middle class dealt with air pollution through personal means like air purifiers and vacations, but the current situation has prompted public protests.
- The state has prioritized policing over engaging with citizens, as shown by deploying the Rapid Action Force at protests.
Challenges in Addressing Air Pollution
North India's winter smog is a symptom of a national crisis. Studies like the Air Quality Life Index reveal India's chronic unsafe air conditions, highlighting the inadequacy of current regulatory and enforcement mechanisms.
Governance and Institutional Gaps
- The airshed should be the main governance unit, but authority is fragmented among central ministries, State departments, and other bodies.
- The Commission for Air Quality Management was established to address this fragmentation, yet its impact has been limited.
Strategic Solutions
Authorities should move beyond technical quick fixes, which are short-term and ineffective, to focus on interventions in key sectors:
- Power, industry, transport, construction, and agriculture require tighter norms and real enforcement.
- Plans should include retiring or retrofitting polluting plants, supporting cleaner fuels, and providing alternatives for crop residue burning.
These strategies require time but offer lasting change if backed by courageous political vision instead of heavy-handedness.
