Pollution Causes Public Health Emergency in India

Delhi has dispatched officials to enforce zero-tolerance policies to combat severe air pollution. (Flickr)

India continues to face extreme air pollution, especially in Delhi, one of the world’s most polluted metropolises. On November 1, the Indian government declared a public health emergency; since then, schools have been shut down, and the government has cracked down on pollution in multiple areas.

The city of Delhi has sent out inspectors and officials to enforce a number of zero-tolerance policies against pollution throughout the city. For example, odd-numbered cars can only drive on odd-numbered days (and vice versa). Inspectors, who also inspect construction sites, have been granted permission to fine violators on the spot. 

Anwar Ali Khan, a civil engineer, told the Washington Post, “It’s an emergency situation. There is zero tolerance at this time.” 

The inspectors look for various violations, from material not being adequately covered at a construction site to a prohibited vehicle on the road.

Many citizens of Delhi celebrated the religious Hindu festival called the Chhath Puja, which took place on November 2, despite the air pollution. Per the religious ritual, people dressed up and stood in the toxic foam of the sacred Yamuna River, paying homage to the sun god. 

Others have pressed the government to be more responsive to air quality concerns, including in off-season months. The record-breaking air pollution, reported by Time to be over 23 times the safe limit recommended by the World Health Organization, has shut down schools and resulted in cancelled flights.