Smog Crisis in Northern India – An Overview

As winter approaches in northern India, cities are engulfed in smog. This year, smog has arrived earlier than usual, impacting air quality and public health. The phenomenon is particularly severe in states like Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi. About the causes and implications of this early smog is crucial.

What is Smog?

Smog is a type of air pollution. It combines smoke and fog, resulting in reduced visibility and poor air quality. The term originated in the early 1900s. Today, it is prevalent in urban areas with high industrial and vehicular emissions. Smog forms when pollutants like nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds react in sunlight. When combined with fog, it creates a thick haze.

Annual Occurrence of Smog

Smog typically appears in northern India by late November or December. Winter conditions lead to atmospheric inversion. This phenomenon traps cold air close to the ground. As a result, pollutants accumulate near the surface, worsening air quality.

Role of Stubble Burning

Stubble burning is an important contributor to smog. This practice releases harmful pollutants like particulate matter and carbon monoxide. While it intensifies pollution, it is not the sole cause. Other year-round sources also contribute to the problem.

Additional Pollutants

In addition to stubble burning, vehicular emissions and industrial smoke worsen smog conditions. Vehicle exhaust emits nitrogen dioxide and fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Thermal power plants and factories also release pollutants, compounding the smog crisis.

Factors Behind Early Smog This Year

Several meteorological conditions have led to early smog in 2024. Slow wind speeds have allowed pollutants to accumulate. Additionally, weak western disturbances have introduced moisture into the plains. Limited rainfall reduces the natural cleansing of the atmosphere, allowing pollutants to linger longer.

Impact of Diwali Celebrations

The timing of Diwali contributed to the smog. Celebrated earlier this year, widespread firecracker use released large amounts of particulate matter. Fireworks introduce toxic metals and gases into the atmosphere, worsening air quality.

Climate Change and Smog

Climate change is altering weather patterns, exacerbating smog conditions. Unseasonable weather leads to prolonged pollution episodes. Experts suggest that addressing agricultural practices and tightening emission standards could mitigate the smog crisis.

Potential Solutions

Incentivising alternative stubble management techniques may help. Implementing stricter emission standards for vehicles and industries could also reduce pollution levels. Collaborative efforts are necessary to tackle this complex issue effectively.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the role of stubble burning in the seasonal air pollution crisis in northern India.
2. Critically discuss the impact of climate change on the frequency and intensity of smog in urban areas.
3. Analyse the effects of industrial emissions on air quality and public health in densely populated regions.
4. Estimate the potential benefits of implementing stricter emission standards on urban air quality improvement.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the role of stubble burning in the seasonal air pollution crisis in northern India.

1. Stubble burning releases high levels of particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and other harmful pollutants.
2. This practice is particularly prevalent in states like Punjab and Haryana during the harvest season.
3. While it contributes to smog, it is not the sole cause; other sources also play a role.
4. Stubble burning exacerbates pollution levels by adding to the existing vehicular and industrial emissions.
5. Efforts to find alternative stubble management techniques are essential to mitigate its impact.

2. Critically discuss the impact of climate change on the frequency and intensity of smog in urban areas.

1. Climate change alters weather patterns, leading to unseasonable temperature variations and precipitation changes.
2. Such changes can enhance atmospheric stability, allowing pollutants to accumulate and intensify smog conditions.
3. Increased frequency of extreme weather events may contribute to prolonged pollution episodes.
4. Urban areas with high emissions are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change on air quality.
5. Mitigating climate change through sustainable practices is crucial for improving urban air quality.

3. Analyse the effects of industrial emissions on air quality and public health in densely populated regions.

1. Industrial emissions release pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, and volatile organic compounds.
2. These pollutants contribute to the formation of smog and poor air quality.
3. Exposure to polluted air is linked to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and other health issues.
4. Densely populated regions experience higher health risks due to concentrated industrial activities.
5. Implementing stricter regulations on industrial emissions can improve public health outcomes.

4. Estimate the potential benefits of implementing stricter emission standards on urban air quality improvement.

1. Stricter emission standards can lead to an important reduction in pollutants released by vehicles and industries.
2. Improved air quality can result in lower rates of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases among urban populations.
3. Enhanced public awareness and compliance with standards can encourage a culture of environmental responsibility.
4. Cleaner air can improve overall quality of life and increase productivity in urban areas.
5. Long-term adherence to stricter standards can contribute to sustainable urban development and climate resilience.