We think air pollution Is caused by Firecrackers and Paddy burning. What if we Are pointing fingers in the wrong direction?
STATEMENT 1: PADDY BURNING IS THE MAJOR CULPRIT
Paddy burning is a critical issue, primarily occurring in October. While it contributes alot to air pollution, it is not prevelant for over 3 months. But, data shows that AQI levels remain 200%-300% above normal even in months like May-June. Overemphasizing stubble burning is only partially responsible, while it diverts attention from the persistent factors driving Delhi’s air quality crisis.
STATEMENT 2: BURNING FIRECRACKERS ON DIWALI IS THE REAL CAUSE
Diwali crackers gets huge attention and visibility and consumes lot of bandwidth of Government machinery. Again, Diwali pollution is of very short duration and its impact is for less than a week. The danger of air pollution happens due to long over-exposure. Too much focus on Diwali again shifts attention from key issues which are causing real pollution.
STATEMENT 3: THE SUSPENDED DUST CONTRIBUTES TO THE POLLUTION
India experiences significant dust from both natural and human-made sources, including anthropogenic, combustion, and industrial dust. In Delhi alone, over 131 tonnes of dust are generated daily. Dust is a major contributor to PM10 pollution, accounting for 87% of particulate matter in Lucknow’s air, far surpassing vehicular emissions (5.2%) and burning (2.1%).
STATEMENT 4: Vehicular/Aerial Traffic CAUSES THE POLLUTION
A study in Chennai found that PM2.5, PM1, and PM10 levels significantly increased during morning and evening office hours. The strong correlation with vehicular traffic highlights emissions from vehicles as a major contributor to air pollution across all seasons.
STATEMENT 5: INDUSTRIAL EMISSIONS IS A MAJOR POLLUTANT
Industrial emissions are a major source of air pollution, releasing harmful pollutants like SO₂, NOₓ, and particulate matter into the atmosphere. However, significant practical steps are being taken to address this, including stricter regulations, adoption of cleaner technologies, and a shift towards renewable energy.
Join the Cause for Cleaner Skies
Research shows that to combat Delhi’s pollution we need to fight dust and traffic on our ends, rather than focusing solely on Diwali crackers or paddy burning. Step up and volunteer to spread awareness today.
