Delhi's Air Quality Plummets: CAQM Flags Negligence, Health Issues Surge
Photo by Ronak Naik
Quick Revision
Delhi's AQI reached 461, the highest this season
CAQM flagged 'recurring negligence' by DDA
Hospitals report a surge in respiratory patients
Government to create digital farmland database
Key Dates
Key Numbers
Visual Insights
Delhi Air Quality Dashboard
Key metrics related to Delhi's air quality and its impact.
- Air Quality Index (AQI)
- 461
- Respiratory Patients Increase
- Significant Surge
Indicates 'Severe' air quality, posing significant health risks. High AQI levels trigger GRAP measures.
Hospitals are reporting a rise in patients with respiratory illnesses due to the deteriorating air quality. Impacts public health and healthcare infrastructure.
Exam Angles
Role and powers of CAQM
Impact of air pollution on public health
Government policies and initiatives to combat air pollution
Constitutional provisions related to environment protection
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Summary
Background
Latest Developments
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM): 1. It was constituted by an Act of Parliament to address air pollution issues in the National Capital Region (NCR) and adjoining areas. 2. The CAQM has the power to impose environmental compensation on polluting industries. 3. The CAQM's directives override any conflicting orders from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: A
Statement 1 and 2 are correct. The CAQM was established to address air pollution in NCR and has the power to impose environmental compensation. However, CAQM's directives do not override CPCB orders; they work in coordination.
2. In the context of Delhi's air pollution, which of the following is NOT a direct contributor to the 'severe plus' air quality index (AQI)?
- A.Stubble burning in neighboring states
- B.Vehicular emissions within Delhi
- C.Industrial activity in the NCR region
- D.Ocean acidification
Show Answer
Answer: D
Ocean acidification is a global issue related to increased CO2 absorption by oceans, not a direct contributor to Delhi's immediate air pollution crisis. The other options are direct contributors.
3. Assertion (A): High levels of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) in Delhi's air pose a significant threat to public health. Reason (R): These particulate matters can penetrate deep into the respiratory system and cause cardiovascular diseases. In the context of the above statements, which of the following is correct?
- A.Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
- B.Both A and R are true, but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
- C.A is true, but R is false
- D.A is false, but R is true
Show Answer
Answer: A
Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains why high levels of particulate matter are a threat to public health. PM2.5 and PM10 are known to cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems.
4. Which of the following measures is LEAST likely to be effective in mitigating Delhi's air pollution in the short term?
- A.Implementation of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)
- B.Increased use of public transportation and carpooling
- C.Rapid afforestation and expansion of green cover
- D.Strict enforcement of emission norms for vehicles and industries
Show Answer
Answer: C
While afforestation is crucial for long-term environmental sustainability, its impact on air pollution is gradual and not immediate. GRAP, public transport, and emission norms have more immediate effects.