Delhi records low of 8.1 degrees Celsius, air quality ‘poor’

Delhi's recurring struggle with air pollution, epitomized by an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 240 classified as 'poor' by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), is a critical environmental and public health concern with profound implications for India. This situation, often exacerbated by dropping winter temperatures, traps pollutants closer to the ground, creating a toxic haze that engulfs the National Capital Region (NCR) annually.

**Background Context and What Happened:**

Delhi's geographical location plays a significant role. Situated in a landlocked basin, it is prone to atmospheric inversions during winter, where a layer of warm air traps cooler, pollutant-laden air beneath it. This meteorological phenomenon, combined with low temperatures, prevents the dispersal of pollutants. The primary sources of pollution are multifaceted: vehicular emissions from a rapidly growing vehicle fleet, industrial pollution from surrounding areas, extensive construction dust, domestic biomass burning, and crucially, stubble burning in neighboring agricultural states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, particularly in the post-monsoon harvesting season. The reported AQI of 240 falls into the 'poor' category (201-300), indicating breathing discomfort for most people on prolonged exposure, and more severe effects for those with heart or lung diseases, older adults, and children. This is a stark reminder of the persistent challenge despite various governmental interventions over the years.

**Key Stakeholders Involved:**

Several entities are actively involved in addressing Delhi's air pollution crisis. The **Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)**, established under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and later entrusted with powers under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, is the primary body responsible for monitoring air quality, setting national standards, and providing technical assistance. The **Delhi Government** and governments of neighboring states (Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh) are crucial implementers of policies, responsible for controlling local sources of pollution and enforcing environmental regulations. The **Central Government**, through the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), frames national policies like the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). The **Supreme Court of India** and the **National Green Tribunal (NGT)** have frequently intervened, issuing strict directives and holding authorities accountable, often acting as catalysts for policy changes. Finally, **citizens** are both victims and stakeholders, demanding action and contributing to pollution through their consumption patterns and choices.

**Why This Matters for India:**

Delhi's air pollution crisis is not merely a local issue; it serves as a grim indicator of broader environmental challenges across urban India. It has significant ramifications:

1. **Public Health:** Chronic exposure leads to severe respiratory illnesses (asthma, bronchitis), cardiovascular diseases, and even premature deaths. The economic burden on the healthcare system is immense, and it reduces the overall productivity of the workforce.

2. **Economic Impact:** The perception of Delhi as a highly polluted city deters tourism and foreign investment. Productivity losses due to illness and reduced visibility impacting transport also contribute to economic slowdown.

3. **Social Impact:** It disproportionately affects vulnerable populations – children, the elderly, and daily wage earners who cannot escape exposure. It impacts the quality of life, mental well-being, and educational outcomes.

4. **Governance and Federalism:** The issue highlights the complexities of inter-state cooperation, as pollution sources often transcend administrative boundaries, requiring coordinated efforts from multiple state governments and the Centre.

**Historical Context and Constitutional Provisions:**

India's environmental consciousness gained momentum post the 1972 Stockholm Conference, leading to the enactment of specific laws. The **Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981**, is the cornerstone legislation. The **Environmental (Protection) Act, 1986**, provides an umbrella framework for environmental protection. Constitutionally, the right to a clean environment has been interpreted as an integral part of **Article 21 (Right to Life)** by the Supreme Court. Furthermore, **Article 48A (Directive Principles of State Policy)** mandates the State to