Friday, November 15, 2024

SMOG IN NORTH INDIA


 Smog Crisis in North India

For over a week now, North India—particularly Punjab and Chandigarh—has been shrouded in a thick, black smog, with no sign of sunlight piercing through. This isn’t due to harsh winter or cloudy skies; it’s the toxic effect of severe air pollution. The air has become so hazardous that simply breathing feels like a health risk, and we’re seeing a spike in respiratory illnesses, asthma attacks, heart conditions, and other serious health issues. Hospitals are overflowing, struggling to accommodate the influx of patients.

Yesterday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Chandigarh, one of India’s greenest cities, reached a staggering 500—a level considered "severe." In comparison, London’s AQI was merely 20.  The contrast is alarming. Are we not living in a gas chamber of our own making?

Who is responsible for this crisis? Vehicle emissions and uncleaned roads play a part, but the main culprit is stubble (Parali-residual of rice crop) burning in Punjab, Haryana, and parts of Pakistan.   Despite the detrimental impact on public health, enforcement remains lax. Why? Farmers, forming a significant voting bloc, have been given a free pass. As the “Annadata” (providers of food), they hold sway, even bringing highways and city roads to a standstill in prolonged protests, as politicians and courts hesitate to take action against them.   Unfortunately, government support for sustainable stubble disposal remains minimal; transporting and processing crop residue for biogas or alternative uses is deemed uneconomical.

It’s time for action. Our health and future are at stake. Let's work towards sustainable solutions, support our farmers in transitioning to eco-friendly practices, and protect the air we all breathe.

God save our country!  We are at least 50 years behind Europe when it comes to air quality.

 

#SmogCrisis #AirQuality #NorthIndia #AQI #SustainableFarming #ParaliBurning #HealthCrisis #EnvironmentalResponsibility #CleanAir #FutureIndia

 

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