Sunday, December 14, 2025

We want constructive & not cosmetic measures to save Delhi from the grip of severe air pollution.

Delhi is facing an extremely grim situation due to hazardous + air pollution across the city. Officially reported AQI levels have crossed 465, i.e. over 30 times higher than WHO standards. Unofficially, and visibly, the AQI appears to be 60-80 times above safe limits. Despite this alarming crisis, authorities continue to play cosmetic GRAP measures across Delhi NCR.

The lives of crores of citizens are at serious risk due to life threatening medical emergency, yet there is no decisive action such as implementing vehicular odd-even measures to curb emissions. Schools continue in hybrid mode, masks are still not mandatory, and there is no consideration of a short lockdown to protect public health.

At the very least, the government could announce free Metro and DTC services and strongly discourage the use of private vehicles. Shockingly, no visible or constructive steps are being taken to safeguard the health of Delhiites.

"We want constructive & not cosmetic measures to save Delhi from the grip of severe air pollution", says B S Vohra, an Environment Activist, and President of the East Delhi RWAs Joint Front

While doctors advise residents to leave the city and courts shift to virtual hearings to avoid severe air pollution, offices and markets remain open in the name of protecting the economy. Water sprinklers are reportedly used near monitoring stations to downplay pollution severity, yet no advisories urge citizens to stay indoors. Meanwhile, air purifiers, now a basic necessity rather than a luxury, continue to attract an 18% GST.

Those in positions of power appear to lack a clear understanding of AQI, while the authorities tasked with its administration seem preoccupied with routine formalities rather than effective implementation.

The situation is dire, and superficial measures are insufficient to prevent serious respiratory and other health emergencies. There is a clear absence of political will and administrative resolve, making any meaningful improvement unlikely. Instead, authorities appear to be relying on seasonal changes and shifting wind patterns to provide temporary relief.

Thursday, December 11, 2025

What happens if water with >30 ppb uranium is used for cooking?

Using groundwater with uranium above 30 ppb (parts per billion) for cooking can pose health risks — mainly from chronic ingestion, not from external contact.

Here’s a clear, safe explanation:


๐Ÿšฐ What happens if water with >30 ppb uranium is used for cooking?

1. Uranium does not evaporate or break down during cooking

When you boil rice, dal, vegetables, etc.:

  • Water evaporates

  • Uranium stays behind and becomes more concentrated in the food

So if the starting water has 30+ ppb, the final concentration in food may be even higher.


⚠️ 2. Main health risk: Kidney damage (chemical toxicity)

The biggest concern is chemical toxicity, not radiation.

Long-term intake of uranium-contaminated water can cause:

  • Damage to kidney tubules

  • Increased creatinine levels

  • Reduced filtration ability

  • Protein/leakage in urine

This happens because uranium acts like a heavy metal toxin.


⚠️ 3. Radiation risk is much smaller but not zero

Uranium gives off low-level alpha radiation. When ingested in small quantities, chemical toxicity happens much earlier than radiation harm.


๐Ÿš Does cooking make the contamination worse?

Yes. In foods like:

  • Rice

  • Tea

  • Soups

  • Lentils

The water volume reduces, but the uranium stays → higher concentration in the final food.


๐Ÿ‘ถ Who is most vulnerable?

  • Children

  • Pregnant women

  • People with kidney disease

  • Elderly

For them, even moderate exposure is more harmful.


๐Ÿ›ก️ Safe vs Unsafe Levels

  • WHO guideline: ≤30 ppb in drinking water

  • Many studies show kidney effects beginning near 15–30 ppb with chronic use

Cooking water should ideally meet the same standards as drinking water.


๐Ÿ  What can you do? (Practical solutions)

✔️ Safe options

  • Use RO water (RO removes 90–99% uranium)

  • Use bottled water for drinking + cooking

  • Use community RO plants

  • Test your groundwater every 6–12 months

❌ Boiling water does NOT remove uranium

It actually increases concentration.


๐Ÿงช Should you stop using your current groundwater for cooking?

If uranium >30 ppb:
๐Ÿ‘‰ Yes — avoid using it for drinking and cooking.

Use RO-treated or alternative water.


B S Vohra

Environment Activist

Monday, December 8, 2025

500 เคธे 999 เค”เคฐ เค‰เคธ เค•े เคญी เคŠเคชเคฐ เคตाเคฒा AQI เค•िเคธ เค•ेเคŸेเค—เคฐी เคฎें เค†เคคा เคนै ?

 CPCB เค•े เคฎाเคจเค•ों เค•े เค…เคจुเคธाเคฐ, เคถूเคจ्เคฏ เคธे 50 เค•े เคฌीเคš AQI ‘เค…เคš्เค›ा’, 51 เคธे 100 ‘เคธंเคคोเคทเคœเคจเค•’, 101 เคธे 200 ‘เคฎเคง्เคฏเคฎ’, 201 เคธे 300 ‘เค–เคฐाเคฌ’, 301 เคธे 400 ‘เคฌเคนुเคค เค–เคฐाเคฌ’ เค”เคฐ 401 เคธे 500 เค•े เคฌीเคš เคเค•्เคฏूเค†เคˆ ‘เค—ंเคญीเคฐ’ เคฎाเคจा เคœाเคคा เคนै। 

เคฒेเค•िเคจ 500 เคธे 999 เค”เคฐ เค‰เคธ เค•े เคญी เคŠเคชเคฐ เคตाเคฒा AQI เค•िเคธ เค•ेเคŸेเค—เคฐी เคฎें เค†เคคा เคนै ?

B S Vohra

East Delhi RWAs Joint Front;

Delhi RWAs Pollution Control Committee (DRPCC)



Sunday, December 7, 2025

Delhi RWAs Pollution Control Committee (DRPCC) Formed to Tackle Capital’s Worsening Air Crisis

PRESS RELEASE

Delhi RWAs Pollution Control Committee (DRPCC) Formed to Tackle Capital’s Worsening Air Crisis

In a decisive move to confront Delhi’s escalating air pollution emergency, B. S. Vohra, an Environment Activist, & President of the East Delhi RWAs Joint Front, as well Convener of the RWA Bhagidari Network, has announced the formation of the Delhi RWAs Pollution Control Committee (DRPCC).

Vohra stated that the new committee has been established to address the crisis far more seriously and systematically than it has been so far.

“Despite the ongoing efforts of CAQM, CPCB, and DPCC, why does Delhi’s air quality continue to deteriorate year after year?” he asked. “Does this mean their actions are ineffective, or merely symbolic, lacking real impact?”

Highlighting the stark difference between past achievements and today’s grim reality, Vohra noted:

“In 2010, Delhi successfully hosted the Commonwealth Games. But in 2025, even the BCCI has opted to skip the Under-23 tournament due to pollution concerns.”

He added that the crisis has now reached a point where doctors are advising residents to relocate, and courts have shifted to virtual hearings to safeguard public health.

“Every year, thousands suffer from life-threatening medical conditions linked to pollution, yet authorities still fail to enforce strong, protective measures,” Vohra said.

Concluding with a powerful message, he posed a critical question that reflects the city’s growing frustration:

“Is there no one in the system who can be held accountable for this disaster?”

Vohra added that like-minded RWAs, domain experts, and citizen groups will be brought into the committee, strengthening a collective and sustained movement to save Delhi from the growing threat of air pollution.

By:

DELHI RWAs POLLUTION CONTROL COMMITTEE (DRPCC) ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿ’ฏ๐Ÿ˜ญ

Saturday, December 6, 2025

How the Air Pollution levels keep worsening in the national capital city DELHI ?

The worsening air pollution in Delhi, despite the efforts of organizations like the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), and Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors. Here's a breakdown of some of the key reasons:

1. Vehicular Emissions

Number of Vehicles: The sheer volume of vehicles on the roads is a major contributor. Delhi has one of the highest numbers of vehicles in the country. Even with stricter emission norms and initiatives like the odd-even scheme, the number of vehicles continues to rise.

Diesel Trucks: Delhi serves as a major transportation hub, and a significant amount of pollution is caused by heavy diesel trucks passing through the city. Diesel engines emit large amounts of particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and other harmful gases.

2. Construction and Development

Construction Dust: With rapid urbanization, construction work is constantly happening in Delhi. Dust from construction sites is a significant contributor to air pollution, especially particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), which is harmful to health.

Infrastructure Projects: Large-scale infrastructure projects, like the Delhi Metro expansion, flyovers, and housing complexes, often lead to an increase in dust and emissions during their construction phases.

3. Burning of Crop Residue (Stubble Burning)

Neighboring States: A significant portion of Delhi's air pollution during the winter months (October-November) is driven by the burning of crop residues in neighboring states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. While efforts have been made to incentivize farmers to stop burning stubble, this practice continues due to economic and logistical constraints.

4. Industrial Emissions

Unregulated Industries: Despite efforts to regulate industrial pollution, many small and medium-sized industries around Delhi continue to operate with outdated, inefficient equipment, emitting large quantities of pollutants.

Power Plants and Boilers: Many coal-powered plants and boilers continue to contribute significantly to the pollution levels in and around the city.

5. Weather and Geography

Temperature Inversion: In winter, Delhi experiences temperature inversion, where a layer of warmer air traps cooler air near the surface. This phenomenon prevents pollutants from dispersing, causing them to accumulate and intensify air pollution.

Wind Patterns: The wind direction and speed during certain months can concentrate pollution in the city. Additionally, the local topography can trap pollutants, exacerbating the situation.

6. Firecrackers and Festivities

Diwali and Other Festivals: Every year, during festivals like Diwali, the bursting of firecrackers results in a sharp increase in air pollution, particularly in the form of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10). Despite public awareness campaigns, the practice continues to be widespread.

7. Waste Management Issues

Open Burning of Waste: The burning of waste, including plastic and other materials in landfills or on roadsides, is a common practice in Delhi. This adds to the toxic mix of pollutants in the air.

Garbage Piles: Inefficient waste management leads to the accumulation of garbage, which, when burnt, contributes to the city's poor air quality.

8. Insufficient Enforcement of Regulations

Weak Implementation: While there are many laws and regulations in place (e.g., restricting the use of stubble burning, encouraging cleaner fuels, or limiting construction dust), enforcement remains a challenge. There are instances of non-compliance by industries, construction sites, and even individuals, which contribute to the pollution.

Political and Bureaucratic Challenges: Air pollution is a politically sensitive issue, and different state and central authorities often have conflicting interests or insufficient coordination.

9. Climate Change and Long-term Changes

Increased Frequency of Extreme Events: Climate change is leading to more erratic weather patterns, making certain pollutants more concentrated during specific times of the year (e.g., longer periods of fog and stagnation in winter).

Long-Term Pollution Trends: Many of Delhi's pollution challenges are tied to years of industrialization, urbanization, and unchecked emissions. The long-term effects are difficult to reverse quickly.

10. Public Awareness and Behavioral Challenges

Public Behavior: Many individuals still don't fully understand the severity of the issue or how their actions (e.g., burning leaves, excessive use of private vehicles, improper waste disposal) contribute to pollution.

Lack of Alternative Options: Public transportation infrastructure, although improving, is still inadequate in many areas. People rely on private cars, contributing to traffic emissions. Moreover, affordable electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure is still in the developmental stage.

Efforts Being Made

Despite these challenges, several steps are being taken:

Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP): A framework to tackle air pollution with increasing severity depending on the pollution levels.

Air Quality Index (AQI) Monitoring: Real-time monitoring and reporting systems to provide timely information to the public.

Promotion of Electric Vehicles: Incentives to promote EVs and transition to cleaner energy sources.

Public Awareness Campaigns: Continuous campaigns to educate the public about the importance of reducing pollution.

Conclusion

The situation in Delhi is the result of a combination of socio-economic, environmental, and regulatory factors. While there have been improvements in certain areas (such as stricter vehicle emission standards and cleaner energy initiatives), the city is still grappling with pollution because of the complex and interconnected nature of the problem. The road to cleaner air will require stronger enforcement, systemic changes, better coordination among agencies, and more sustainable urban planning, all while balancing economic growth and the welfare of the population.

B S Vohra, Environment Activist, President, East Delhi RWAs Joint Front

Friday, November 28, 2025

เคฆिเคฒ्เคฒी เค•ा เค˜ुเคŸเคคा เคฆเคฎ: เค—ंเคญीเคฐ เคตाเคฏु เคช्เคฐเคฆूเคทเคฃ เคธे เคฌเคข़เคคा เค–เคคเคฐा !

เคฆिเคฒ्เคฒी เคฎें เคนเคฐ เคตเคฐ्เคท เคธเคฐ्เคฆिเคฏों เค•े เคฎौเคธเคฎ เคฎें เคตाเคฏु เคช्เคฐเคฆूเคทเคฃ เคเค• เค—ंเคญीเคฐ เคธंเค•เคŸ เค•े เคฐूเคช เคฎें เคธाเคฎเคจे เค†เคคा เคนै। เคนเคตा เคฎें เค˜ुเคฒे เคตिเคทैเคฒे เคช्เคฐเคฆूเคทเค• เคจ เค•ेเคตเคฒ เคชเคฐ्เคฏाเคตเคฐเคฃ เค•ो เคจुเค•เคธाเคจ เคชเคนुँเคšाเคคे เคนैं, เคฌเคฒ्เค•ि เคฎाเคจเคต เคธ्เคตाเคธ्เคฅ्เคฏ, เค…เคฐ्เคฅเคต्เคฏเคตเคธ्เคฅा เค”เคฐ เคธाเคฎाเคจ्เคฏ เคœीเคตเคจ เคชเคฐ เคญी เค—เคนเคฐा เคช्เคฐเคญाเคต เคกाเคฒเคคे เคนैं। เคฆिเคฒ्เคฒी เค•ा เคเคฏเคฐ เค•्เคตाเคฒिเคŸी เค‡ंเคกेเค•्เคธ (AQI) เค…เค•เคธเคฐ ‘เคธीเคตिเคฏเคฐ’ เคถ्เคฐेเคฃी เคฎें เคชเคนुँเคš เคœाเคคा เคนै, เคœो เคฏเคน เคฆเคฐ्เคถाเคคा เคนै เค•ि เคนเคตा เคฎें เคฎौเคœूเคฆ เค•เคฃ (PM2.5 เค”เคฐ PM10) เคธुเคฐเค•्เคทिเคค เคธ्เคคเคฐ เคธे เค•เคˆ เค—ुเคจा เค…เคงिเค• เคนैं। เคฏเคน เคธ्เคฅिเคคि เคฆिเคฒ्เคฒी-เคเคจเคธीเค†เคฐ เค•े เค•เคฐोเคก़ों เคฒोเค—ों เค•े เคฒिเค เค…เคค्เคฏंเคค เคนाเคจिเค•ाเคฐเค• เคนै।

เคธเคฌเคธे เคชเคนเคฒे เคธ्เคตाเคธ्เคฅ्เคฏ เคชเคฐ เคชเคก़เคจे เคตाเคฒे เคฆुเคท्เคช्เคฐเคญाเคตों เค•ी เคฌाเคค เค•เคฐें เคคो เคตाเคฏु เคช्เคฐเคฆूเคทเคฃ เคซेเคซเคก़ों เค”เคฐ เคนृเคฆเคฏ เคธे เคœुเคก़ी เคฌीเคฎाเคฐिเคฏों เค•ो เคฌเคข़ाเคตा เคฆेเคคा เคนै। เคฒเค—ाเคคाเคฐ เคช्เคฐเคฆूเคทिเคค เคนเคตा เคฎें เคธांเคธ เคฒेเคจे เคธे เค–ाँเคธी, เคธांเคธ เคซूเคฒเคจा, เค†ंเค–ों เคฎें เคœเคฒเคจ, เคเคฒเคฐ्เคœी เค”เคฐ เค…เคธ्เคฅเคฎा เคœैเคธी เคธเคฎเคธ्เคฏाเคँ เคคेเคœी เคธे เคฌเคข़เคคी เคนैं। เคฌเคš्เคšों, เคฌुเคœुเคฐ्เค—ों เค”เคฐ เค—เคฐ्เคญเคตเคคी เคฎเคนिเคฒाเค“ं เค•े เคฒिเค เคฏเคน เคธ्เคฅिเคคि เค”เคฐ เคญी เค–เคคเคฐเคจाเค• เคนोเคคी เคนै। 

เคฒंเคฌे เคธเคฎเคฏ เคคเค• เคเคธे เคตाเคคाเคตเคฐเคฃ เคฎें เคฐเคนเคจे เคธे เคซेเคซเคก़ों เค•ी เค•ाเคฐ्เคฏเค•्เคทเคฎเคคा เค˜เคŸ เคœाเคคी เคนै เค”เคฐ เคนृเคฆเคฏ เคธंเคฌंเคงी เคฐोเค—ों เค•ा เคœोเค–िเคฎ เคฌเคข़ เคœाเคคा เคนै। เค•เคˆ เคฎाเคฎเคฒों เคฎें เค—ंเคญीเคฐ เคช्เคฐเคฆूเคทเคฃ เค•ा เคช्เคฐเคญाเคต เค•्เคฐोเคจिเค• เค‘เคฌ्เคธเคŸ्เคฐเค•्เคŸिเคต เคชเคฒ्เคฎोเคจเคฐी เคกिเคœीเคœ (COPD) เค”เคฐ เคซेเคซเคก़ों เค•े เค•ैंเคธเคฐ เคคเค• เคญी เคชเคนुँเคš เคธเค•เคคा เคนै। เคกॉเค•्เคŸเคฐों เค•े เค…เคจुเคธाเคฐ, เคฆिเคฒ्เคฒी เคฎें เคถीเคคเค•ाเคฒ เค•े เคฆौเคฐाเคจ เคถ्เคตเคธเคจ เคธंเคฌंเคงी เคฎเคฐीเคœों เค•ी เคธंเค–्เคฏा เค•เคˆ เค—ुเคจा เคฌเคข़ เคœाเคคी เคนै, เคœिเคธเคธे เค…เคธ्เคชเคคाเคฒों เคชเคฐ เคญी เค…เคคिเคฐिเค•्เคค เคฆเคฌाเคต เคชเคก़เคคा เคนै।

เคฆूเคธเคฐा เคฌเคก़ा เคจुเค•เคธाเคจ เคชเคฐ्เคฏाเคตเคฐเคฃ เคชเคฐ เคชเคก़เคคा เคนै। เคตाเคฏु เคช्เคฐเคฆूเคทเคฃ เคธे เคชेเคก़ों เค•ी เคชเคค्เคคिเคฏाँ เคธเคฎเคฏ เคธे เคชเคนเคฒे เคเคก़เคจे เคฒเค—เคคी เคนैं เค”เคฐ เคชौเคงों เค•ी เคตृเคฆ्เคงि เคช्เคฐเคญाเคตिเคค เคนोเคคी เคนै। เคนเคตा เคฎें เคฎौเคœूเคฆ เคธเคฒ्เคซเคฐ เคกाเค‡เค‘เค•्เคธाเค‡เคก เค”เคฐ เคจाเค‡เคŸ्เคฐोเคœเคจ เค‘เค•्เคธाเค‡เคก เคœैเคธे เคช्เคฐเคฆूเคทเค• เค…เคฎ्เคฒीเคฏ เคตเคฐ्เคทा เค•ा เค•ाเคฐเคฃ เคฌเคจเคคे เคนैं, เคœो เคฎिเคŸ्เคŸी เค”เคฐ เคœเคฒเคธ्เคฐोเคคों เค•ो เคญी เคนाเคจि เคชเคนुँเคšाเคคी เคนै। เคช्เคฐเคฆूเคทเคฃ เค•ी เค…เคงिเค•เคคा เคธे เคฆिเคฒ्เคฒी เค•े เคšाเคฐों เค“เคฐ เคฎौเคœूเคฆ เคนเคฐिเคฏाเคฒी เคชเคฐ เคญी เคฌुเคฐा เค…เคธเคฐ เคชเคก़เคคा เคนै। เค‡เคธเค•े เค…เคฒाเคตा, เคนเคตा เคฎें เคงुंเคง เค”เคฐ เคธ्เคฎॉเค— เค•ी เคชเคฐเคค เคธूเคฐ्เคฏ เค•ी เค•िเคฐเคฃों เค•ो เคฐोเค• เคฆेเคคी เคนै, เคœिเคธเคธे เคคाเคชเคฎाเคจ เคฎें เค…เคธाเคฎाเคจ्เคฏ เคฌเคฆเคฒाเคต เคฆेเค–เคจे เค•ो เคฎिเคฒเคคा เคนै เค”เคฐ เคฎौเคธเคฎ เคšเค•्เคฐ เคช्เคฐเคญाเคตिเคค เคนोเคคा เคนै। เคฏเคน เคธ्เคฅिเคคि เคœเคฒเคตाเคฏु เคชเคฐिเคตเคฐ्เคคเคจ เค•ी เคธเคฎเคธ्เคฏाเค“ं เค•ो เค”เคฐ เคฌเคข़ा เคฆेเคคी เคนै।

เคตाเคฏु เคช्เคฐเคฆूเคทเคฃ เค•ा เค†เคฐ्เคฅिเค• เคช्เคฐเคญाเคต เคญी เค•เคฎ เคจเคนीं เคนै। เคฌเคข़เคคी เคฌीเคฎाเคฐिเคฏों เค•े เค•ाเคฐเคฃ เคฒोเค—ों เค•ो เค‡เคฒाเคœ เคชเคฐ เค…เคงिเค• เค–เคฐ्เคš เค•เคฐเคจा เคชเคก़เคคा เคนै เค”เคฐ เค•เคˆ เคฌाเคฐ เค•ाเคฎเค•ाเคœी เคฆिเคจों เค•ा เคจुเค•เคธाเคจ เคญी เคนोเคคा เคนै। เคธ्เค•ूเคฒों เค”เคฐ เค•ाเคฐ्เคฏाเคฒเคฏों เค•ो เคฌंเคฆ เค•เคฐเคจे เค•ी เคธ्เคฅिเคคि เคชैเคฆा เคนो เคœाเคคी เคนै, เคœिเคธเคธे เคถिเค•्เคทा เค”เคฐ เคต्เคฏाเคชाเคฐ เคฆोเคจों เคช्เคฐเคญाเคตिเคค เคนोเคคे เคนैं। เคจिเคฐ्เคฎाเคฃ เค•ाเคฐ्เคฏों เค”เคฐ เคตाเคนเคจ เค‰เคชเคฏोเค— เคชเคฐ เคฒเค—ाเค เค—เค เคช्เคฐเคคिเคฌंเคงों เคธे เคต्เคฏเคตเคธाเคฏिเค• เค—เคคिเคตिเคงिเคฏाँ เคงीเคฎी เคชเคก़ เคœाเคคी เคนैं। เคช्เคฐเคฆूเคทเคฃ เค•े เค•ाเคฐเคฃ เคชเคฐ्เคฏเคŸเค•ों เค•ी เคธंเค–्เคฏा เคญी เค˜เคŸเคคी เคนै, เคœो เคฆिเคฒ्เคฒी เค•ी เค…เคฐ्เคฅเคต्เคฏเคตเคธ्เคฅा เค•े เคฒिเค เคšिंเคคाเคœเคจเค• เคนै।

เค…ंเคคเคคः, เคธाเคฎाเคœिเค• เคœीเคตเคจ เคญी เค‡เคธ เคช्เคฐเคฆूเคทเคฃ เค•ा เคถिเค•ाเคฐ เคนोเคคा เคนै। เคฒोเค— เคฌाเคนเคฐी เค—เคคिเคตिเคงिเคฏों เคธे เคฌเคšเคจे เคฒเค—เคคे เคนैं, เคฌเคš्เคšे เคฎैเคฆाเคจों เคฎें เค–ेเคฒ เคจเคนीं เคชाเคคे เค”เคฐ เคธाเคฎाเคจ्เคฏ เคœीเคตเคจเคถैเคฒी เคช्เคฐเคญाเคตिเคค เคนोเคคी เคนै। เคฎाเคธ्เค• เคชเคนเคจเคจा เค…เคจिเคตाเคฐ्เคฏ เคนो เคœाเคคा เคนै เค”เคฐ เคธ्เคตเคš्เค› เคนเคตा เคœैเคธी เคฌुเคจिเคฏाเคฆी เค†เคตเคถ्เคฏเค•เคคा เคญी เคเค• เคšुเคจौเคคी เคฌเคจ เคœाเคคी เคนै।

เคธंเค•्เคทेเคช เคฎें, เคฆिเคฒ्เคฒी เคฎें เค—ंเคญीเคฐ เคตाเคฏु เคช्เคฐเคฆूเคทเคฃ เคธ्เคตाเคธ्เคฅ्เคฏ, เคชเคฐ्เคฏाเคตเคฐเคฃ, เค…เคฐ्เคฅเคต्เคฏเคตเคธ्เคฅा เค”เคฐ เคธเคฎाเคœ—เคšाเคฐों เคธ्เคคเคฐों เคชเคฐ เคญाเคฐी เคจुเค•เคธाเคจ เคชเคนुँเคšाเคคा เคนै। เค‡เคธ เคธเคฎเคธ्เคฏा เคธे เคจिเคชเคŸเคจे เค•े เคฒिเค เคธเคฐเค•ाเคฐ, เค‰เคฆ्เคฏोเค—ों เค”เคฐ เคจाเค—เคฐिเค•ों เคธเคญी เค•ो เคฎिเคฒเค•เคฐ เคฆीเคฐ्เค˜เค•ाเคฒिเค• เคธเคฎाเคงाเคจ เค…เคชเคจाเคจे เคนोंเค—े, เคœैเคธे—เคธ्เคตเคš्เค› เคŠเคฐ्เคœा เค•ा เค‰เคชเคฏोเค—, เคธाเคฐ्เคตเคœเคจिเค• เคชเคฐिเคตเคนเคจ เค•ो เคฌเคข़ाเคตा, เคตृเค•्เคทाเคฐोเคชเคฃ เค”เคฐ เคช्เคฐเคฆूเคทเคฃ เคจिเคฏंเคค्เคฐเคฃ เคจिเคฏเคฎों เค•ा เค•เคก़ाเคˆ เคธे เคชाเคฒเคจ। เค•ेเคตเคฒ เคธाเคฎूเคนिเค• เคช्เคฐเคฏाเคธों เคธे เคนी เคฆिเคฒ्เคฒी เค•ो เคธ्เคตเคš्เค› เค”เคฐ เคธ्เคตเคธ्เคฅ เคนเคตा เคฎिเคฒ เคธเค•เคคी เคนै।

B S Vohra, Environment Activist President, East Delhi RWAs Joint Front

Saturday, November 15, 2025

What aqi level in Delhi can cause permanent damage of Lungs?

What aqi level in Delhi can cause permanent damage of Lungs?

Here's a clear, safe, and science-based explanation:

AQI Levels and Risk of Permanent Lung Damage

The Air Quality Index (AQI) uses the same health-impact categories worldwide (including Delhi), though Delhi often reaches the highest bands. Permanent lung damage is not tied to a precise AQI number, but the risk increases sharply at very high and prolonged exposures.

Below is the standard interpretation:

AQI LevelCategoryHealth EffectsRisk of Long-Term / Permanent Damage
0–100Good/ModerateMinimalNone expected
101–200Unhealthy for Sensitive GroupsIrritation, reduced lung function (temporary)Long-term exposure can begin affecting children, elderly, and asthmatics
201–300UnhealthyBreathing difficulty for most peopleChronic exposure may cause measurable decline in lung function
301–400Very UnhealthySignificant respiratory distressHigh risk of long-term lung damage, especially with repeated or continuous exposure
401–500+Hazardous / SevereSerious health effects on everyoneProlonged exposure can lead to permanent lung damage, increased risk of COPD, and long-term impairment

So, what AQI level in Delhi can cause permanent lung damage?

➡️ Short-term spikes (even 500+) usually do not cause permanent damage alone, but
➡️ Repeated or long-term exposure to AQI above ~300–400 greatly increases the risk of lasting or permanent lung damage, especially from PM2.5.

Why?

PM2.5 particles (most responsible for Delhi pollution peaks) can:

  • lodge deep inside the alveoli,

  • cause chronic inflammation,

  • reduce lung growth in children,

  • accelerate lung aging,

  • increase lifetime risk of asthma, COPD, and heart disease.

Important note

This information is for general education, not medical diagnosis. If you have symptoms (persistent cough, breathlessness, wheezing), consulting a medical professional is recommended.

B S Vohra, Environment Activist, President, East Delhi RWAs Joint Front

Causes of Day Time severe Air Pollution in Delhi ?

Delhi’s hazardous daytime air pollution results from a combination of human activities and natural factors. The major causes include:


1. Vehicular Emissions

  • High population and rapid growth in vehicle ownership.

  • Traffic congestion leads to idling, increasing emissions.

  • Major pollutants: PM2.5, PM10, NOx, CO, and ozone precursors.


2. Industrial and Power Plant Emissions

  • Factories around Delhi-NCR emit particulate matter, sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and nitrogen oxides (NOx).

  • Brick kilns and small-scale industries often use dirty fuels like coal, wood, and furnace oil.


3. Construction and Road Dust

  • Continuous construction, demolition, and poor dust-control practices release large amounts of PM10.

  • Road dust resuspension due to traffic movement is one of the largest daytime contributors.


4. Biomass Burning Within the City

  • Burning of garbage, wood, and crop waste inside Delhi’s informal settlements contributes to toxic emissions.

  • Open waste burning is a major source of black carbon.


5. Stubble Burning (Seasonal but Severe)

  • Farmers in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh burn rice stubble.

  • Winds carry the smoke to Delhi, dramatically raising PM2.5 levels, especially in late October–November.


6. Atmospheric and Weather Conditions

  • Low wind speed during the day traps pollutants.

  • Temperature inversions can occur even in daytime winter months, preventing vertical dispersion.

  • Strong sunshine triggers photochemical reactions, increasing ground-level ozone.


7. Urban Heat Island Effect

  • Dense built-up areas trap heat, intensifying chemical reactions that form secondary pollutants like ozone and secondary PM2.5.


8. Diesel Generators

  • Commonly used during power cuts in markets, construction sites, and residential complexes.

  • Emit high levels of PM2.5, SO₂, and NOx.


9. Poor Fuel Quality & Waste Disposal Practices

  • Use of substandard fuels in transport and industry.

  • Improper waste disposal leads to open burning, especially during daytime when enforcement is weak.


Summary

Delhi’s hazardous daytime air pollution arises from a mix of local emissions (vehicles, dust, industries), regional sources (crop burning), and weather conditions that trap pollutants and enhance photochemical pollution.

B S Vohra, Environment Activist, President, East Delhi RWAs Joint Front

Why is night AQI worse in Delhi?

How night aqi is higher in Delhi comparing day AQI, even though minimum vehicular emissions and parali fires can't impact only during night ?

There are clear scientific reasons why AQI in Delhi is often higher at night than during the day, even when traffic emissions are low and stubble-burning (“parali”) isn’t occurring at that exact time.

Here’s the explanation, step by step:


๐ŸŒ† 1. Night-time temperature inversion traps pollutants

This is the main reason.

  • After sunset, the ground cools quickly.

  • The air near the surface becomes colder than the air above it.

  • Cold air is heavier and cannot rise - this creates a temperature inversion layer.

  • Pollutants from day sources (vehicles, industry, dust, residual biomass smoke) get trapped near the ground, causing AQI to spike.

During the day:

  • Sunlight heats the ground → warm air rises → vertical mixing occurs.

  • Pollutants disperse upward → AQI appears better.

➡️ Even if emissions are low at night, the inability of pollutants to disperse makes the concentration appear higher.


๐ŸŒฌ️ 2. Wind speed is lowest at night

  • Night-time winds tend to calm significantly in plains cities like Delhi.

  • With low or no wind, pollutants accumulate locally.

  • Even residual pollution from the daytime stays close to the surface.

Daytime winds + sunlight = better dispersion.


๐Ÿญ 3. Continuous emissions (even at lower levels) still accumulate

Even though traffic decreases, these sources continue throughout the night:

  • Waste burning (often done at night)

  • Industrial emissions (not all factories shut down)

  • Construction dust

  • Domestic emissions (heating, cooking, generators)

  • Heavy trucks enter Delhi mostly at night (unless restricted)

Lower emissions + zero dispersion still leads to higher concentration.


๐ŸŒซ️ 4. Higher humidity at night forms secondary particles

At night Delhi’s humidity rises. Higher humidity promotes:

  • Formation of secondary particulate matter (especially PM2.5)

  • Hygroscopic growth of existing particles → they absorb moisture and get “bigger”

  • Fog + particulate interaction → smog

This increases PM2.5 readings even if pollution source is unchanged.


๐Ÿ”ฅ 5. Parali (stubble burning) affects nights more due to wind patterns

Even though fires may occur in the day, their transport to Delhi often peaks at night:

  • Cooler night winds from Punjab/Haryana bring smoke into Delhi.

  • Unable to disperse due to inversion, the smoke accumulates.

So fires don’t have to happen “at night” to worsen night AQI.


๐ŸŒƒ 6. Chemical reactions differ between day & night

Daytime sunlight causes photochemical reactions that help break some pollutants (like NOx).
At night:

  • No sunlight → fewer reactions to degrade pollutants.

  • NO₂ builds up because it isn't photolyzed.

  • Ozone decreases at night, affecting secondary particle formation dynamics.

Overall effect → pollution stays in its most concentrated form.


✔️ In summary: Why is night AQI worse in Delhi?

Even with lower emissions, pollutants get trapped, accumulate, grow, and don’t disperse at night due to:

  • Temperature inversion

  • Low wind speed

  • Increased humidity

  • Residual emissions accumulating

  • Transport of pollution from outside Delhi

  • Suppressed chemical breakdown of pollutants

This phenomenon is common in polluted cities worldwide, but Delhi’s geography and winter conditions amplify it dramatically.

B S Vohra, Environment Activist, President- East Delhi RWAs Joint Front

Friday, November 14, 2025

RWAs Advisory on Rising Air Pollution Levels in Delhi

 


RWAs Advisory on Rising Air Pollution Levels in Delhi

Dear Residents,

With the recent increase in air pollution levels across Delhi, the EDRWAJF urges all residents to take the following precautionary and preventive measures to safeguard their health and contribute to cleaner air in our community.


1. Health & Safety Measures

  • Limit outdoor exposure, especially during early mornings and late evenings when pollution levels are typically higher.

  • Use N95/N99 masks when stepping outdoors.

  • Keep windows and doors closed during peak pollution hours.

  • Use air purifiers, if available, especially for children, elderly individuals, and those with respiratory conditions.

  • Increase indoor ventilation during times when AQI is better (usually afternoon hours).


2. Protecting Vulnerable Groups

  • Ensure that children, senior citizens, pregnant women, and asthma patients avoid prolonged outdoor activities.

  • Keep essential medications (inhalers, nebulizers) readily accessible.


3. Reducing Local Pollution

Residents are requested to actively help reduce emissions in and around the colony:

  • Avoid burning leaves, garbage, or any waste.

  • Encourage carpooling, use of public transport, bicycles, and walking for short distances.

  • Turn off vehicle engines at red lights to prevent idling.

  • Avoid using diesel generators; shift to backup alternatives wherever possible.

  • Support plantation drives and protect existing green cover in the colony.


4. Home & Community-Level Actions

  • Keep household dust levels low by regular wet mopping.

  • Maintain green balconies or indoor plants that improve air quality.

  • Participate in RWA-led awareness sessions and clean-air initiatives.


5. Reporting & Coordination

  • Report any instances of open burning, construction dust, or industrial emissions to the RWA office and local authorities.

  • The EDRWAJF will continue to coordinate with local municipal bodies to ensure:

    • Regular watering of parks and open areas

    • Dust control measures near construction sites

    • Timely waste collection and disposal


6. Stay Informed

  • Residents are advised to regularly check AQI updates from official sources.

  • The RWA will share alerts and updates through WhatsApp groups, notice boards, and email.


Your cooperation is essential in safeguarding the health of our community, with a request to Delhi Government & all the concerned Agencies to come forward to SAVE DELHI, SAVE DELHIITES. Residents are truly fed up of no action from your sideLet us work together for cleaner, & healthier air.

B S Vohra

President

East Delhi RWAs Joint Front ( A Federation of Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs)

Facebook @RWABhagidari

Wednesday, October 15, 2025

Suggestions on hike of the Property Circle Rates in Delhi

Department of Revenue, Government of NCT of Delhi, Delhi Secretariat, IP Estate, New Delhi – 110002

Subject: Request to Consider Livability and Ground Realities Before Hiking Circle Rates

Respected Sir/Madam,

I am writing to express concern over the proposed revision of circle rates in Delhi and to respectfully urge the government to ensure that ground realities and actual livability conditions are thoroughly considered before implementing any hike.

While revising circle rates to reflect market trends is understandable, it is equally important to assess whether the basic quality of life in each locality justifies such an increase. A rate hike without corresponding improvement in living conditions would be unfair to residents and prospective buyers.

Key factors that must be assessed before any revision include:

  • Air Quality Index (AQI) and local pollution levels

  • Road infrastructure and overall maintenance

  • Waterlogging during rains and poor drainage system

  • Presence of garbage mounds/landfills near residential areas

  • The state of the Yamuna River, especially in nearby localities as well availability of potable drinking water

  • Availability and quality of green spaces and public parks

  • Traffic congestion and average commute times

  • Lack of last-mile connectivity and accessible public transport

  • Waste disposal, sewerage, and sanitation infrastructure

  • Moreover the stamp duty of 7% is too high and must be looked into seriously as people are already paying huge taxes on their income & expenditure.

Without addressing these basic persistent issues, increasing circle rates may not only overburden citizens but also create a disconnect between property valuation and actual livability.

I urge the government to adopt a data-driven, area-specific approach and involve local stakeholders like Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) in the decision-making process, via a public hearing. This will ensure that the revised rates are fair, transparent, and truly reflective of on-ground realities.

Thanking you,

B S Vohra

President, East Delhi RWAs Joint Front, Krishna Nagar, Delhi 110051