Delhi's Air Pollution Crisis: Data Reveals Multiple Sources Beyond Farm Fires Contributing to Toxic Air Quality

Delhi's annual struggle with hazardous air quality has transformed the capital into a virtual gas chamber once again. According to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) measurements, the city's 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) has dramatically increased from a moderate 130 on October 1 to an alarming 428 by November 11, before slightly improving to 327 by November 26—still classified in the 'Very Poor' category.

While stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana frequently receives blame for Delhi's air pollution crisis, data from the Ministry of Earth Sciences' Decision Support System (DSS) reveals a more complex reality.

During early October, farm fires contributed negligibly to Delhi's pollution levels. By October 17, their contribution increased to 2.62 percent as the AQI surpassed 250. November saw significantly worse conditions, with farm fire contributions reaching 22.47 percent on November 12 when the AQI hit 418 ('Severe'). Between November 18-20, despite farm fire contributions dropping to between 5.4 and 2.8 percent, the AQI remained above 325.

This data demonstrates that while stubble burning significantly impacts air quality during peak smog periods, it represents just one component of a multifaceted problem.

The DSS data identifies several major pollution sources beyond agricultural burning. Surrounding metropolitan areas—including Gautam Buddha Nagar, Gurgaon, Karnal, and Meerut—collectively contribute 29.5 percent to Delhi's toxic air. Transportation accounts for 19.7 percent, with residential emissions (4.8 percent), peripheral industrial activity (3.7 percent), and construction dust (2.9 percent) also contributing substantially.

Perhaps most concerning is the 34.8 percent contribution from unidentified sources—pollution that cannot be effectively managed without proper identification.

AQI readings across Delhi on November 26 at 4 PM painted a distressing picture: Rohini registered at 368, Jahangirpuri at 365, and Wazirpur at 369. Even relatively less polluted areas like Dilshad Garden (259) and Mandir Marg (231) recorded levels far exceeding the safe threshold of 50.

Delhi's air pollution crisis clearly extends beyond seasonal farm fires. It represents a complex interaction between regional pollution sources, vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and unidentified factors. Without implementing a comprehensive, multi-state, cross-sector strategy, the capital appears destined to face choking pollution every winter season.