The decline in incidents of stubble burning, coupled with delayed spells of rain, an early Diwali, and favorable weather conditions, prevented Delhi from being engulfed in pollution after the festival.
Delhi experienced comparatively cleaner air in 2022 due to proactive anti-pollution measures and favorable weather conditions. However, efforts by the city government to improve the water quality of the Yamuna, often referred to as the lifeline of the capital, were unsuccessful.
Efforts by conservationists and the forest and wildlife department led to the recovery of several wildlife species, including the striped hyena and leopards, in urban areas.
“Diwali festivities in October, reduced incidents of crop fires, proactive pollution control measures based on forecasts, and favorable weather conditions, including extended rainfall in October, have contributed to lowering early winter pollution levels,” said Anumita Roychowdhury, executive director of research and advocacy at the Centre for Science and Environment.
The Commission for Air Quality Management introduced a new policy outlining sector-specific action plans to reduce air pollution in Delhi-NCR over the next five years. This policy includes a revamped Graded Response Action Plan focused on proactive implementation of anti-pollution measures based on forecasts.
Additionally, the use of unapproved fuels, such as coal, in industrial and commercial applications has been banned by the Centre’s air quality panel. Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Haryana have been directed to transition to only CNG and electric autos in the National Capital Region by the end of 2026.
Stubble burning, a major contributor to pollution levels in Delhi-NCR, decreased significantly in Punjab and Haryana this year. However, a dispute arose between the Centre and Punjab regarding the use of the Pusa bio-decomposer solution to decompose paddy straw.
Efforts to clean the Yamuna River, a vital source of raw water for Delhi, have faced challenges due to increased pollution from sewage and industrial effluents. The government has pledged to improve the river’s water quality to bathing standards by 2025.
Despite these challenges, the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary in Delhi has seen an increase in animal populations, including leopards, indicating their adaptation to urban environments. Additionally, attempts to dump waste in the sanctuary have been thwarted by the forest and wildlife department.
