Context & The Gist
Following Diwali, Delhi continues to grapple with severe air pollution. The Delhi government’s recent attempt at cloud seeding to induce rainfall and clear the air yielded minimal results, demonstrating the limitations of short-term, reactive measures and emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive and sustainable pollution control strategies.
Key Arguments & Nuances
- Limited Efficacy of Cloud Seeding:
The article highlights that cloud seeding’s success is contingent on sufficient moisture in clouds, which was lacking in Delhi’s late autumn skies. Even if successful, the impact would have been localized and temporary.
- Need for Data-Driven Policy:
Despite the availability of detailed data identifying pollution sources and their variations, policymakers have largely relied on ‘quick fixes’ rather than implementing robust, long-term policies.
- Comprehensive Approach Required:
The article stresses that Delhi’s pollution problem is complex and requires a multi-pronged approach, extending beyond seasonal measures and encompassing neighboring states through an ‘airshed’ approach.
- Commission’s Piecemeal Approach:
The Commission for Air Quality Management’s efforts are criticized as being fragmented and insufficient to address the scale of the problem.
UPSC Syllabus Relevance
- GS Paper II: Governance – Issues Relating to Development and Growth: The article relates to policy formulation and implementation concerning environmental protection and pollution control.
- GS Paper III: Environment – Pollution and its Control: Directly relevant to understanding the challenges of air pollution, mitigation strategies, and the effectiveness of different technologies.
- GS Paper III: Science and Technology – Awareness in the field of Biotechnology & its applications: Cloud seeding is a technology-based intervention, and the article discusses its scientific limitations.
Prelims Data Bank
- Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM): Established in 2021, it is a statutory authority responsible for air quality management in the National Capital Region (NCR).
- National Clean Air Programme (NCAP): Launched in 2019, aims to reduce PM2.5 and PM10 concentration by 20%–30% by 2024, with respect to 2017 levels.
- Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981: Provides the framework for air pollution control in India.
Mains Critical Analysis
The failure of cloud seeding in Delhi underscores the limitations of relying on technological quick fixes for a deeply entrenched environmental problem. The core issue lies in the lack of a holistic and proactive approach to air pollution management. A PESTLE analysis reveals:
- Political: Lack of political will for sustained, long-term policy implementation.
- Economic: The economic costs of pollution (healthcare, lost productivity) are not fully factored into policy decisions.
- Social: Public awareness and participation are crucial but often lacking.
- Technological: While technology like cloud seeding can be explored, it’s not a panacea.
- Legal: Existing laws need stricter enforcement and updated provisions.
- Environmental: The interconnectedness of air quality across states necessitates a regional approach.
The critical gap is the absence of a comprehensive airshed management plan that addresses pollution sources across the entire region, including agricultural practices, industrial emissions, and vehicular traffic. The focus needs to shift from reactive measures to preventive strategies, such as promoting cleaner fuels, investing in public transportation, and strengthening emission standards.
Value Addition
- GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan): Implemented in Delhi-NCR to address different levels of air pollution.
- SC Judgments on Air Pollution: The Supreme Court has repeatedly directed governments to take stringent measures to combat air pollution, emphasizing the right to clean air as a fundamental right.
- Best Practice – Beijing Model: Beijing successfully reduced air pollution through a combination of strict regulations, investment in renewable energy, and regional cooperation.
- Quote: “The ultimate test of a moral society is how it treats its most vulnerable members.” – Mahatma Gandhi (Relates to the health impacts of pollution on vulnerable populations).
The Way Forward
- Immediate Measure: Strengthen enforcement of existing regulations on polluting industries and vehicles. Implement stricter emission standards.
- Long-term Reform: Develop and implement a comprehensive airshed management plan involving all neighboring states. Invest in research and development of sustainable pollution control technologies. Promote public awareness and encourage behavioral changes.