Wish to Fight Air Pollution? Learn from These Cities.

As per the latest reports of the Delhi Pollution Control Committee(DPCC), Delhi is witnessing its best air quality in the past 8 years. The pollution levels are the lowest since 2012, with the average PM10 and PM2.5 levels dropping to 237 and 101 respectively. However, these values are still 2-3 times higher than the values prescribed.

The Delhi govt. and the Central govt. have been taking quite effective steps in the past, as is evident. However, it’s time for them to make these measures more stringent. Based on the models of various cities and countries throughout the globe, India can draw inspiration and fight its air pollution.

It’s time to rise above odd-even and bring other steps into the picture by adopting practices of nations like Mexico and China. If properly executed, these steps can help Delhi become a “clean-air city” in the upcoming future.

1. Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico has been witnessing thick smog layers hovering in the air for long and has developed some effective solutions to tackle this. Supported by the immense participation of the locals, the authorities have established data centres providing real-time data and information to the people. The city has also implemented measures to encourage public transport and stop biomass burning.

2. Paris, France

Authorities from some of the central districts of Paris have announced car-free Sundays to tackle the air pollution menace. In some other French cities, “low emission zones” are being implemented. The Gurgaon administration also announced the “Car Free Tuesday” program in 2015, but it was short-lived.

3. Hamburg, Germany

The German government under the leadership of Angela Merkel is very much serious about fighting air pollution. The govt has earmarked €500 million for this purpose. Hamburg has already banned all kinds of diesel vehicles. The city is also focusing on reducing air pollution by the ships in its ports.

4. Beijing, China

The Chinese govt has established an overall pollution monitoring program trying to fight air pollution from almost every aspect. Factories have been asked to reduce production, warning systems have been established and a deadline to meet the standard air quality by 2030 has been established. The Chinese govt. has also established an air-purifying tower in Xi’an.

5. Rome, Italy

The ancient historic city of Rome has also vowed to ban diesel vehicles by 2024. In order to prevent the damage to the Colosseum from the car exhausts, a detour has been made to shield the ancient arena.

6. London, UK

London is one of the most polluted European cities. The city has been fighting for long and has recently seen a siginigicant drop in the air pollution levels. One of the biggest steps taken by Mayor Sadiq Khan is to tax those who are most responsible for it. A “toxic charge” has been introduced for those who use old diesel vehicles.

7. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is focusing on encouraging people to prefer riding bicycles over driving cars. Apart from imposing extra taxes on those driving cars, the city has made giant bike parks to help people commute.

8. Copenhagen, Denmark

The Danish city has set a target of eliminating all the diesel vehicles by 2030. Not just that, Copenhagen is also looking to eliminate the petrol cars. The city aims on complete electrification of vehicles and is also planting more and more trees.

These cities are fighting valiantly and are already witnessing significant benefits. It’s time for the Indian govt. also to incorporate such steps to purify air, even if it comes amidst opposition by people.