Addressing Delhi's air quality crisis through regional cooperation
Delhi's air pollution, a persistent issue in autumn and winter, stems from both local sources and emissions from neighboring states across the Indo-Gangetic Plain (IGP). The article highlights the need for coordinated regional action, especially with the current political alignment across Delhi-NCR states. Despite existing measures like the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana and pollution control devices in industries, implementation lags due to fragmented governance. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) provides a promising institutional framework, but its effectiveness depends on aligning state actions with regional targets. The author emphasizes treating the entire IGP as a single airshed for effective mitigation.
Key Points
- Delhi's air pollution is a regional problem requiring coordinated action across the Indo-Gangetic Plain (IGP) states.
- Fragmented governance and inconsistent implementation hinder effective pollution control measures.
- The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has the potential to drive regional mitigation strategies.
- International agreements like the Malé Declaration underscore the importance of regional cooperation for transboundary pollution.
- Political will and alignment among states are crucial for scaling up mitigation efforts and achieving regional targets.
Exam Facts
- Commission for Air Quality Management for National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas (CAQM).
- Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana.
- International agreements: Stockholm Declaration (1972), Malé Declaration for South Asia (1998).
- Author: Swagata Dey (Air Quality Policy and Outreach group at the Center for Study of Science, Technology and Policy).
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