Delhi's Odd-Even Scheme: A band-aid solution to a long-term pollution problem

To combat air pollution in Delhi-NCR effectively, a multifaceted approach is essential. (Source: PTI)

Since Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI), which has an allowed limit of 50-100, exceeds 400 in many places, the Delhi Odd-Even Scheme for 2023 is returning. This is a response to the extraordinarily elevated pollution levels in the country's capital. Private automobiles with licence plate numbers ending in odd digits can use the roads on odd dates under the Odd-Even Scheme. In contrast, cars with license plate numbers ending in even digits can do so on even dates.

Even though the Odd-Even Scheme is a commendable endeavour to minimise pollution, it is important to remember that Delhi's ongoing problems with air quality can be viewed as a stopgap measure. It ignores the main causes of pollution, which include burning crop wastes, industrial pollutants, and dust from the building, in favour of concentrating on automobile emissions.

Moreover, the initiative only offers a temporary solution; it does not include a thorough, long-term strategy to deal with the continuous pollution issue in the area. To achieve long-lasting improvements in the air quality, the government should implement a comprehensive policy that addresses all sources of pollution rather than relying solely on traffic restrictions.

Combating Air Pollution In Delhi-NCR

Air pollution in the Delhi-NCR area is a complicated problem that requires immediate attention. It comes from various sources, such as building dust, industrial activities, automobile emissions, agricultural practices, and meteorological circumstances. The most badly impacted are vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and those with underlying medical conditions.

Vehicle emissions have a significant role in the issue, mostly coming from old and inefficient cars. The problem is made worse by the increasing number of cars that run on diesel. Pollutants such as sulphur dioxide and particulate matter are released into the atmosphere by factories and power plants. Construction work produces a lot of dust and other contaminants. Burning crop residue releases pollutants into the atmosphere, especially in the post-harvest season.

The problem is worsened by meteorological elements that trap pollutants near the ground, such as temperature inversions and low wind speeds. Due to the combined effects of these sources, the area experiences severe health issues and haze due to elevated levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and finer particulate matter (PM2.5).

Impact On Vulnerable Populations

Vulnerable people are disproportionately affected by air pollution. A larger risk of health concerns is associated with children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing medical illnesses.

Reduced lung function, a rise in respiratory infections, and delayed cognitive development are possible in children. Older people are more likely to have respiratory and cardiovascular problems, and people who already have medical conditions are more likely to get hospitalised and have their symptoms worsen.

Their mortality risk rises with prolonged exposure to contaminated air. Health disparities are exacerbated in marginalised areas because they frequently lack access to resources for exposure mitigation and healthcare.

Clearing Delhi's Air: Five Vital Steps

To combat air pollution in Delhi-NCR effectively, a multifaceted approach is essential.

Agricultural mechanisation needs to be promoted to lessen the need for burning crop remnants, as this is a major source of pollution in the region and will help address the problem of stubble burning in neighbouring states. In addition, it's critical to offer farmers financial incentives and subsidies so they may adopt alternative practices like mulching and composting.

Second, it's critical to support sustainable farming methods while implementing harsher laws and penalties for stubble burning. Additionally, encouraging regional cooperation between neighbouring governments can aid in organising efforts and tackling this transboundary problem as a group. It is also essential to invest in research and innovation to find more environmentally friendly ways to manage crop residues.

Third, authorities ought to prioritise several measures aimed at lowering vehicle emissions by encouraging sustainable transportation. This involves making significant investments in public transit to improve its accessibility and efficiency. Additionally, providing financial and tax savings and other incentives for electric vehicles might promote their adoption at a faster rate. An extensive network of charging facilities will ease worries about the accessibility and range of electric vehicles.

Fourth, to promote walking and cycling as environmentally beneficial modes of transportation, non-motorised transportation options such as bicycle- and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure should be developed. Stricter emission regulations and pollution prevention strategies for automobiles are necessary to lessen their environmental influence.

Fifth, community-driven projects and citizen involvement are essential in the fight against air pollution. Reduced car use, energy-saving habits, better waste management, tree-planting efforts, and support for renewable energy sources like solar power are all ways citizens can make a difference. Community-based programmes like "Anti-Idling Programmes," "Tree Planting Campaigns," and "Clean Air Zones" have demonstrated promise in enlisting the help of local organisations and residents in the fight against air pollution. These programmes enable local communities to take on the issue as a group and significantly improve the air quality they breathe.

Beyond these, another crucial step is to learn from successful overseas models. Cities such as Beijing, London, Bogotá, Copenhagen, and Los Angeles offer valuable insights for Delhi-NCR. Emission control measures, bus rapid transit systems, bike facilities, and emission regulations have all been implemented successfully in these cities. Delhi-NCR can effectively address its pollution crisis and move toward a healthier and more sustainable future for its citizens by putting these principles into practice locally.

Anjal Prakash is a Clinical Associate Professor (Research) at Bharti Institute of Public Policy, Indian School of Business (ISB). He teaches sustainability at ISB and contributes to IPCC reports. Views are personal, and do not represent the stance of this publication.