Lucknow: Air pollution in Uttar Pradesh has reached alarming levels, with poisonous gases like carbon monoxide and hazardous particulate matter exceeding permissible limits in multiple cities. Over the past few weeks, the situation has worsened, particularly in Western UP, leading to grave health and environmental concerns.
Post-monsoon, Lucknow faces a sharp decline in air quality, often making it one of the most polluted cities in India. This worsening scenario is attributed to a combination of factors:
Stubble Burning: Farmers in neighboring regions burn crop residue, releasing particulate matter (PM2.5) and harmful gases that drift into the city.
Seasonal Dryness: With reduced moisture post-monsoon, dust and pollutants remain suspended in the air longer, exacerbating pollution levels.
Construction Activities: Resumption of construction post-monsoon adds to dust and particulate emissions.
Winter Inversion: The transition to winter traps pollutants close to the ground, intensifying smog and reducing visibility.
Vehicular Emissions: Increased traffic post-monsoon contributes to nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide levels, further degrading air quality.
The cumulative effect leads to hazardous air, respiratory ailments, and urgent calls for stronger environmental interventions.
Exceeding Permissible Limits
The presence of carbon monoxide, along with PM2.5 and PM10 particulates, has soared beyond safe limits, posing significant risks. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the permissible limit for PM2.5 is 60 micrograms per cubic meter, but in many UP cities, it has exceeded 100 micrograms. Carbon monoxide levels have also risen drastically, with cities recording levels 36 times higher than CPCB standards.
In Vasundhara, Ghaziabad, the Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at an alarming 448, placing it in the “severe” category. Nearby areas like Meerut reported an AQI of 310, while Talkatora in Lucknow registered 320 AQI, indicating very poor air quality.
City-Specific Data
Lucknow: Lalbagh (358), Talkatora (320), Kendriya Vidyalaya area (298), BR Ambedkar University (207).
The rising AQI in urban centers is compounded by industrial emissions, vehicular exhaust, construction dust, and seasonal stubble burning.
Factors Behind the Pollution Surge
- Stubble Burning:
- Neighboring states and parts of UP have reported increased stubble burning incidents, contributing significantly to particulate matter in the air.
- Diwali Firecrackers:
- Post-Diwali effects, including widespread use of firecrackers, have worsened the air quality in major cities.
- Vehicular Emissions:
- The growing number of vehicles and traffic congestion add to NO2 and carbon monoxide levels.
Industrial Emissions:
Cities like Ghaziabad and Noida are heavily impacted by emissions from factories and industrial units.
Construction Dust:
Ongoing construction activities without adequate dust-control measures have led to higher concentrations of PM10 particles.
Meteorological Conditions:
Winter inversion and low wind speeds trap pollutants close to the surface, exacerbating pollution levels.
Health Impacts
Experts warn of severe health implications from prolonged exposure to poor air quality:
Respiratory Issues: Increased cases of pneumonia, bronchitis, and lung infections, particularly in children and the elderly.
Cardiovascular Diseases: High pollutant levels elevate risks of heart attacks and strokes.
Reduced Immunity: Chronic exposure can weaken the immune system, making individuals susceptible to infections.
Skin and Eye Irritations: Dryness, itchiness, and irritation due to particulate matter.
Government Interventions
Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh has instructed district magistrates of eight districts, including Meerut, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddha Nagar, to implement the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This includes:
- Daily road cleaning and solid waste removal.
- Water sprinkling and deployment of fog machines to reduce dust.
- Immediate bans on construction in severely affected areas.
- Awareness campaigns to discourage stubble burning.
The Supreme Court has mandated strict adherence to GRAP, particularly in districts where AQI nears or exceeds 449.
Expert Recommendations
- Environmentalists emphasize proactive steps to mitigate pollution:
- Public Awareness: Educate citizens on reducing personal emissions, such as carpooling and avoiding outdoor burning.
- Technological Solutions: Install air-purifying systems and upgrade monitoring infrastructure.
- Health Precautions: Use quality masks, increase fluid intake, and avoid outdoor activities during peak pollution hours.
- Green Initiatives: Encourage urban greenery and adopt eco-friendly construction practices.
Professor Narendra Kumar from Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University highlighted that air pollutants like SO2 and NO2 result from fossil fuel combustion and need immediate regulation. He also stressed the importance of avoiding outdoor activities during the early morning and evening when pollutant levels peak.
Looking Ahead
Uttar Pradesh faces an uphill battle in tackling air pollution. Collaborative efforts between the government, industry, and citizens are crucial to reversing the trend. The state must focus on:
- Enhancing public transportation to reduce vehicular emissions.
- Imposing stricter penalties for non-compliance with pollution norms.
- Promoting renewable energy sources in industrial hubs.
- Implementing stricter crop residue management practices.
