Delhi’s air quality has deteriorated in 2024. Despite various technological measures to reduce vehicular pollution, the city continues to grapple with high levels of particulate matter (PM). The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) has released a report denoting the ongoing mobility crisis and its impact on pollution levels. This situation calls for urgent attention to address the root causes of air quality degradation.
Current State of Air Quality
Recent data indicates a concerning trend in PM2.5 levels. Although there was a temporary decline, the average concentration has stagnated and is now at its highest in five years. Local pollution sources, rather than seasonal farm fires, are primarily responsible for the persistent high levels of PM2.5. In October 2024, contributions from farm fires were minimal, yet the air quality remained poor.
Role of Vehicles in Pollution
Vehicles remain the primary contributors to air pollution in Delhi. They account for approximately 40% of PM2.5 emissions and a staggering 81% of nitrogen oxides (NOx). During traffic congestion, emissions from idling vehicles increase . This exacerbates the pollution problem, particularly in areas with low traffic speeds.
Rapid Motorisation and Its Effects
Delhi has experienced explosive motorisation. The annual growth rate of vehicles is 15.6%. This increase has resulted in over 1,100 new two-wheelers and 500 new private cars on the roads each day. The rise in private vehicle ownership reflects urban sprawl and longer commuting distances, which strain the existing infrastructure.
Public Transport Challenges
The public transport system in Delhi is under severe pressure. The city has only 45 buses per 100,000 residents, falling short of the recommended 60. This shortage, coupled with longer travel distances, makes public transport less appealing. As a result, more commuters are turning to private vehicles, leading to increased congestion and pollution.
Economic Impact of Congestion
Traffic congestion has economic implications. Estimates suggest that unskilled workers lose between Rs 7,500 and Rs 20,100 annually due to congestion. Skilled workers face losses of up to Rs 26,600. Additionally, festive periods worsen the situation, causing traffic speeds to drop by over 50%, which leads to spikes in pollutant levels.
Proposed Solutions
CSE advocates for expanding Delhi’s public transport system, particularly the bus fleet. The goal is to achieve an 80:20 modal split in favour of public and shared transport by 2041. This requires increasing public transit usage and reducing dependence on private vehicles. Infrastructure improvements and incentives for public transport are essential to reverse the current trends.
Questions for UPSC:
- Examine the role of vehicular emissions in Delhi’s air pollution crisis.
- Critically discuss the challenges faced by Delhi’s public transport system.
- Analyse the economic impact of traffic congestion on workers in Delhi.
- Point out the measures needed to improve air quality in urban areas like Delhi.
