Government has the tools, it needs the will, Pg13

Key Highlights:

• Delhi NCR faces dangerously high air pollution levels, leading to a health emergency.
• The focus on short-term measures like road sweeping and construction bans is ineffectual.
• Deep sectoral reforms are needed to cut emissions from vehicles, industry, power plants, waste, and households.
• Systemic changes are required to de-link pollution from urban and industrial growth.
• Delhi needs a vehicle segment-wise mandate for zero-emission electric vehicle uptake.
• Municipal bodies must collect and segregate 100% of household waste to prevent burning.

Detailed Insights:

• Incremental measures are insufficient; Delhi needs to reduce annual PM2.5 levels by 60% to meet National Ambient Air Quality Standards.
• Consistent targeting of dirty diesel transport and coal in power plants is essential, requiring restructuring of energy systems.
• Delhi's Master Plan aims to meet 80% of travel demand with integrated public transport, but car-centric infrastructure diverts funds.
• Industrial emissions need addressing through clean fuel implementation, electrification, and innovative solutions for small-scale units.
• Increased sourcing of clean power and cleaning up power generation across the region is vital, even though coal-based power generation has stopped in Delhi.
• Delhi requires massive expansion in waste processing capacity, including composting and compressed biogas generation.
• A regulatory mandate is needed to ensure 10-20% of recycled material in new construction.
• Clean energy access in poor households requires support for LPG-connected kitchens in night shelters and rental housing.

Key Concepts Involved:

• PM2.5: Fine particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, a major air pollutant.
• National Ambient Air Quality Standards: Standards for ambient air quality set by the government to protect public health.
• Transit-oriented development: Development that maximizes access to public transport and promotes walkable, cyclable neighborhoods.