Context:

• Problem of air pollution in India has become a perennial one, rather than a seasonal one. The article discusses the reasons for inaction in controlling air pollution, few measures taken in this direction and possible solutions for this problem.

Reasons for inaction:

• Trade-offs: Addressing pollution requires difficult choices between development and environment, and society and government are not ready to discuss these trade-offs effectively.
• Political factors: Politicians want to avoid unpopular decisions and lack courage to push for solutions with long-term benefits but potential short-term inconvenience.
• Limited Cooperation between Academia, Government and People. 
• Public apathy: While willing for limited measures, the public is not ready for substantial sacrifices like increased public transport use or restrictions on private vehicles.

Experiments in NCR with meagre results: 

• Bus Rapid Transport(BRT) corridor: The measure was successful in achieving its goals but dismantled due to resistance from car-using public and political capitulation.
• Odd-even experiment: Effectiveness of the measure has not been established fully  but politically acceptable due to short-term impact and perception of action.
• Smog towers: Ineffectiveness masked by political narrative to project concern.

Solutions to control Air pollution:

• Promote sustainable transportation: This includes metro lines, buses, and feeder networks, making them affordable, accessible, and efficient. Encourage ridership through subsidies, dedicated lanes, and park-and-ride facilities.
  • Incentivize electric vehicles: Offer tax breaks, subsidies, and dedicated charging infrastructure to boost EV adoption. Restrict registration of new petrol/diesel vehicles in phases.
  • Improve infrastructure for non-motorized transport: Build dedicated cycling lanes, pedestrian walkways, and ensure safety for cyclists and pedestrians. Encourage cycling and walking for short trips.
  • Implement traffic management systems: Use congestion pricing, carpooling schemes, and smart traffic lights to reduce traffic volume and emissions.
• Tackle construction dust:Enforce mandatory covering of construction sites, regular water sprinkling, and use of dust suppressants. Impose heavy fines for non-compliance.
  • Promote green and sustainable construction practices: Encourage use of prefabricated materials, minimise on-site construction debris, and incorporate green areas within construction projects.
• Address crop burning: Implement schemes like cash compensation, stubble-to-manure programs, and bio-energy initiatives to discourage burning.
  • Develop and promote efficient harvesting and stubble management technologies: Invest in advanced machinery for stubble removal and encourage in-situ management techniques like mulching.
  • Raise awareness and build community support: Educate farmers about the harmful effects of burning and promote alternative solutions through campaigns and farmer outreach programs.
• Control industrial emissions: Upgrade industrial machinery and enforce stricter emission standards for factories and power plants. Regularly monitor and penalise non-compliant industries.
• Improve air quality monitoring and forecasting: Install more air quality sensors across Delhi-NCR to provide real-time data on pollution levels.
  • Develop accurate forecasting models: Invest in research and development of advanced air quality prediction models to alert citizens and guide policy decisions.
  • Public awareness campaigns: Regularly communicate air quality data and forecasts to the public, providing health advisories and tips for minimising exposure.
• Foster regional cooperation and knowledge sharing: Work together to address transboundary air pollution and implement coordinated policy measures across the region.
  • Share best practices and research: Foster knowledge exchange and learn from successful air pollution control strategies implemented in other cities and countries.
  • Engage in international partnerships: Collaborate with international organisations and experts to access cutting-edge technology and funding for pollution control efforts.

Solving air pollution requires societal consensus on difficult trade-offs and collective willingness to accept inconvenient but necessary changes. The public and political class must work together to create the momentum for significant action.