Delhi's pollution level has dipped, but the city needs to do more
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500+ questions on Environment with explanations
📌 Summary:
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Delhi's air quality index (AQI) showed improvement in 2025 compared to previous years, with fewer "severe" days recorded
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PM2.5 and PM10 levels declined but still remain far above WHO safe limits (15 µg/m³ and 45 µg/m³ respectively)
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Key sources of pollution: vehicular emissions (40%), construction dust (25%), stubble burning in Punjab/Haryana (contributes seasonally), industry
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Odd-even scheme, GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) stages I–IV, and BS-VI fuel transition credited for some improvement
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However, critics note GRAP is reactive, not proactive — triggered only after AQI worsens rather than preventing deterioration
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Green cover in Delhi stagnant; urban heat island effect worsening, which traps pollutants in lower atmosphere
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Inter-state coordination remains weak — Delhi's pollution partly originates from NCR states (Haryana, UP, Rajasthan)
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Editorial recommends: year-round enforcement (not just winter), real-time source apportionment, stronger regional cooperation under CAQM (Commission for Air Quality Management)
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