The air pollution crisis in Delhi is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of environmental neglect and insufficient political action. Comparing Delhi to Beijing is not just appropriate but instructive, as both cities faced remarkably similar challenges in the past decade. Vehicular emissions, coal-fired power plants, industrial smoke, and seasonal crop burning are common contributors. Yet, the outcomes couldn't be more different. Beijing, once synonymous with hazardous air, is now a model for air quality improvement, while Delhi’s air continues to deteriorate, with dire consequences for its residents.
Beijing's transformation began in earnest in 2013, spurred by massive public outrage after weeks of toxic smog. The Chinese government responded swiftly and decisively, declaring a “war against pollution” under Premier Li Keqiang. This war wasn’t just rhetoric; it was backed by a $100 billion investment and a comprehensive National Air Action Plan. The government shut down over 100 factories, upgraded others to meet strict emission standards, and transitioned millions of households from coal to cleaner energy sources like natural gas. They also removed 20 million outdated vehicles from the roads, ensuring a significant drop in pollutants. Crucially, the government prioritized transparency by publishing air-quality data, a move that increased accountability and public engagement.
In contrast, Delhi has struggled to implement similar large-scale and effective measures. While the Supreme Court mandated the transition of public buses to CNG in 1998 and the city shut down some coal-fired power plants, these measures have been piecemeal and reactive. The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), introduced in 2017, focuses on emergency responses like restricting construction or private vehicles during severe pollution episodes. However, these temporary measures do little to address the systemic issues that cause Delhi's recurring air crises.
Seasonal spikes in air pollution, particularly during October and November, are exacerbated by stubble burning in neighboring states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. Political blame games between state and central governments have hindered collaborative efforts to tackle the issue. For example, while Delhi’s Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government blames the BJP-led Haryana government for stubble burning, it remains silent on similar practices in Punjab, where AAP is in power. Such partisan politics undermine the unified approach necessary to address this transboundary problem.
The consequences of inaction are dire. According to *The Lancet Planetary Health* journal, Delhi's air pollution contributes to 12,000 premature deaths annually, with millions more suffering from respiratory ailments and other health issues. The air quality index (AQI) frequently crosses hazardous levels, with some monitors recording peaks of 1,500—15 times higher than what the World Health Organization (WHO) deems safe. These figures underline the urgent need for transformative change.
Experts emphasize that Delhi requires a comprehensive, multi-pronged approach to combat air pollution effectively. This includes expanding and modernizing public transport, improving last-mile connectivity, enforcing stricter vehicular emission norms, and transitioning to cleaner energy sources. However, the problem is compounded by Delhi’s rapid population growth and unplanned urbanization, which strain existing infrastructure and exacerbate pollution.
Public awareness and involvement are also crucial. Beijing’s success story owes much to grassroots campaigns, like Pan Shiyi’s viral anti-pollution movement on social media. Such movements pressured the government to act decisively. In Delhi, by contrast, citizens feel a sense of resignation, with many prioritizing economic concerns like inflation and unemployment over environmental issues. The CSDS-Lokniti 2024 pre-poll survey revealed that climate change and pollution rank low on Indian voters' priorities, highlighting the need for greater awareness campaigns.
The broader implications of Delhi's pollution crisis extend beyond health. As Kaushik Basu, former Chief Economic Advisor, warned, unchecked pollution could derail India’s growth story. Clean air is not just a basic human right but also essential for sustainable development and economic progress. Addressing this crisis requires not just local government initiatives but a coordinated national strategy that mirrors the scale and commitment seen in Beijing.
Ultimately, the Delhi-Beijing comparison underscores the importance of political will, resource allocation, and public engagement in tackling environmental challenges. While Delhi continues to grapple with stop-gap measures and political inertia, Beijing stands as a testament to what can be achieved when governments prioritize the health and well-being of their citizens. For India, the path forward is clear—it must treat clean air as a non-negotiable priority, mobilize resources, and foster collaboration across political and state boundaries. Without such a commitment, the air in Delhi will remain a deadly reminder of missed opportunities and unfulfilled responsibilities.
