Delhi government considers artificial rain to battle air pollution
What's the story
Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) has deteriorated, falling into the 'very poor' category on Sunday morning. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported Lodhi Road's AQI at 287 and India Gate at a staggering 325, both in the 'very poor' range. This comes despite Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) being implemented across Delhi-NCR.
Mitigation measures
Water sprinklers deployed on Lodhi Road
In a bid to tackle the high levels of particulate matter, truck-mounted water sprinklers were deployed on Lodhi Road. The move comes as air quality in several areas continues to remain largely in the 'very poor' range. This is part of ongoing efforts by authorities to control pollution levels and protect public health amid worsening air quality conditions.
Innovative approach
Cloud seeding proposed to tackle pollution
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has proposed cloud seeding as a potential solution to the city's environmental challenges. She called it "a pioneering step in addressing the city's persistent environmental crisis." The proposal comes amid ongoing struggles with air quality and aims to explore new methods of tackling these pressing issues for Delhi's residents.
Health concerns
Health risks of poor air quality
Former AIIMS Director Dr. Randeep Guleria has warned of the health risks posed by worsening air quality. He said, "The current high levels of air pollution, indicated by poor AQI, are leading to acute health effects." These effects are particularly seen in those with pre-existing heart/lung diseases, the elderly, and children who are suffering from increased chest discomfort, breathing difficulty, cough, and exacerbation of pre-existing conditions like asthma and COPD.
Widespread impact
Symptoms in healthy individuals due to pollution
Dr. Guleria also noted that even healthy individuals are experiencing symptoms such as nasal stuffiness, throat pain, chest tightness, and coughing due to air pollution. He explained that "the inflammation and narrowing of airways caused by pollutants are contributing to these issues." The former AIIMS Director also highlighted that the use of crackers despite permissions for 'green crackers' has worsened air quality further.
Rain plans
Artificial rain on October 29 to combat pollution
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa has announced that clouds will be hovering over Delhi from October 28 to 30. He said the Delhi government is prepared with physical trials and permissions to induce artificial rain on October 29. This comes as part of ongoing efforts by authorities to combat pollution levels and protect public health amid worsening air quality conditions in the national capital region.