The Pollution Rate in India After Lockdown: A Silver Lining Amidst Chaos
The pollution rate in India has shown significant improvements following the implementation of lockdown measures due to the COVID-19 pandemic. These improvements have been documented by scientists, highlighting a positive environmental impact that extends beyond India's capital city, Delhi.
Scientific Studies and Observations
According to a study conducted by scientists, air quality in India has improved following the lockdown. The research indicates that during this period, particulate matter (PM) concentrations in the southern part of India saw a reduction of 50-60%, and in the Indo-Gangetic basin, which includes cities like Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and others, the reduction was as high as 75%. This substantial decrease in PM is evident in satellite data that has shown a significant drop in aerosol levels across the country.
Environmental Improvements in India
As a result of the lockdown, several environmental factors have shown significant improvements. These include: Air Quality: In Delhi, one of the world's most polluted cities, air quality index (AQI) levels have dropped to a healthy range, often in the single digits. This is in stark contrast to the usual high AQI levels, which can sometimes soar into life-threatening levels. Noise Pollution: Industrial operations and human activities have decreased, leading to a significant reduction in noise pollution levels. Water Quality: Industrial effluents have been affected, yielding better water quality as industries have stopped their operations. Biodiversity: The reduction in human activity has led to an increase in biodiversity, with clearer skies and more visible wildlife.
Impact on Public Health and Well-being
The lockdown has had a profound impact on public health and well-being. For instance, in Delhi, a city that is usually grappling with air pollution and respiratory issues, residents are now able to breathe cleaner air. This has led to a noticeable improvement in visibility and a general feeling of relief among the populace. As Dr. Shashi Tharoor, a politician and author, stated, "Today the typical Delhi AQI hovers around 30 and one blissful afternoon after a spurt of rain it dropped to 7. Seven! In Delhi! Pure joy!"
Global Impact and Lessons Learned
The improvements in air quality in India, and other parts of the world, have not been isolated to its capital. Cities like Bangkok, S?o Paulo, and Bogotá, which have also imposed various restrictions to combat the pandemic, have also witnessed a significant decline in pollution levels. This phenomenon is not limited to Asia and South America; the transformation in Bangkok's air quality and the clearer skies in S?o Paulo are indicative of the far-reaching impact of such measures.
Challenges and Future Prospects
While the reduction in pollution is a positive step, it is essential to recognize that this is primarily a result of emergency measures rather than a sustainable solution. As Sunita Narain, director of the Centre for Science and Environment, asserts, "While I wish Delhi was like this 'all the time,' I don’t want people to say 'Oh, environmentalists are celebrating this lockdown': we are not. This is not the solution. But whatever the new normal is post-Covid-19 we have to make sure we take this breath of fresh air and think about the serious efforts we need to deal with pollution in Delhi."
Conclusion
The positive environmental changes brought about by the lockdown are a testament to the power of collective action in combating pollution. However, it is crucial to build on these improvements to ensure a sustainable future. The lessons learned during this period can guide policymakers and environmentalists in crafting long-term strategies to reduce pollution and improve overall environmental health.