air pollution
Global Air Pollution Crisis: 7.9 Million Deaths in 2023 with India and China Leading Mortality Rates
Oct 24, 2025 03:21 pm CST
The latest State of Global Air report reveals air pollution caused 7.9 million deaths worldwide in 2023, making it the second leading cause of premature mortality. India and China each recorded over 2 million deaths, while research shows strong links between air pollution and various health conditions including dementia, heart disease, and diabetes. About 36% of the global population is exposed to dangerous PM2.5 levels, with 90% of pollution-related deaths occurring in low and middle-income countries.
Punjab Stubble Burning Cases Surge to 484: Impact on Delhi-NCR Air Quality and Enforcement Measures
Oct 23, 2025 06:52 pm CST
Punjab has witnessed a sharp increase in stubble burning incidents, with 484 cases recorded between September 15 and October 22. Tarn Taran and Amritsar districts lead with the highest number of farm fires, as authorities impose fines and register FIRs against violators. Despite a 70% decrease from previous years, the practice continues to contribute significantly to air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region, prompting stricter enforcement measures including red entries in land records.
Delhi Pollution Crisis: AAP-BJP Blame Game Escalates as Air Quality Reaches Dangerous Levels Post-Diwali
Oct 21, 2025 04:08 pm CST
Following Diwali celebrations, Delhi's air quality plunged to 'very poor' levels, triggering a political confrontation between AAP and BJP. While AAP mocked CM Rekha Gupta's handling of the crisis, BJP blamed citizens for ignoring firecracker restrictions and neighboring states for stubble burning. With AQI readings exceeding 350 across the capital and 35 of 38 monitoring stations in the 'red zone', the environmental emergency highlights ongoing governance challenges in addressing Delhi's annual pollution crisis.
Delhi Government Plans Artificial Rain Through Cloud Seeding as Air Quality Worsens After Diwali Celebrations
Oct 21, 2025 02:51 pm CST
Delhi prepares for artificial rain implementation as air quality reaches 'very poor' levels following Diwali celebrations. The cloud seeding operation, promised by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta's government, awaits meteorological approval between October 24-26. Despite Supreme Court restrictions limiting green firecrackers to specific hours, widespread violations have contributed to deteriorating air conditions across the national capital.
Punjab Records 308 Stubble Burning Cases Since September with Tarn Taran and Amritsar Leading the Count
Oct 20, 2025 11:27 pm CST
Punjab has reported 308 stubble burning incidents since September 15, with Tarn Taran and Amritsar districts accounting for most cases. Despite government efforts to curb this practice, which contributes significantly to Delhi-NCR air pollution, many farmers continue burning crop residue due to the short window between harvests. Environmental fines exceeding Rs 6.5 lakh have been imposed, with 147 FIRs registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Green Crackers in Delhi: Less Harmful But Still Controversial for Public Health and Air Quality
Oct 18, 2025 01:35 pm CST
The Supreme Court's recent decision to allow green crackers in Delhi during Diwali has sparked debate among residents and environmental advocates. While these alternative fireworks produce 30% less pollution than conventional ones, many question whether "less harmful" is sufficient in a city already struggling with dangerous air quality levels. This article examines the controversy, regulations, implementation challenges, and the balance between tradition and public health in India's capital.
Health Expert Warns: "Green Crackers" Still Harmful to Air Quality and Public Health During Diwali
Oct 16, 2025 03:12 pm CST
Delhi's top chest surgeon Dr. Arvind Kumar challenges the notion of "green crackers" being safe, warning that despite Supreme Court's approval for their use during Diwali, all firecrackers contribute to air pollution and significant health risks. With Delhi's winter pollution already concerning, medical experts anticipate increased emergency hospital admissions for respiratory, cardiac and neurological conditions following the festival season.
Supreme Court Allows Green Crackers in Delhi NCR for Diwali: Balancing Celebration and Environmental Concerns
Oct 15, 2025 04:34 pm CST
The Supreme Court has permitted the use of green crackers in Delhi NCR during Diwali (October 20-21), citing that smuggled conventional firecrackers cause more damage than regulated green alternatives. The ruling establishes specific time slots for firecracker use and directs pollution monitoring bodies to track air quality, while emphasizing this is a temporary measure balancing cultural celebrations with environmental protection concerns.
Understanding Green Crackers: A Less Polluting Alternative for Diwali Celebrations in Delhi-NCR
Oct 15, 2025 01:30 pm CST
Green crackers, developed by CSIR-NEERI, produce 30% less air pollution than conventional fireworks. The Supreme Court has approved their use in Delhi-NCR during Diwali from October 18-21, with specific time restrictions. These eco-friendlier alternatives feature smaller shells, fewer chemicals, and dust suppressant additives, offering a balanced approach to celebrating festivals while reducing environmental impact.
CAQM Intensifies Anti-Stubble Burning Measures in Punjab and Haryana to Reduce Delhi's Winter Pollution
Sep 27, 2025 12:33 am CST
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has launched flying squads and established a coordination cell in Mohali to combat stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana. The initiative focuses on proper crop residue management through in-situ and ex-situ methods, with increased surveillance and penalties for non-compliance to improve Delhi's air quality during winter months.