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Delhi’s AQI ‘very poor’ for third day in a row, no respite for next six days

Delhi, for the third consecutive day, recorded air quality in the ‘very poor’ category, making it the most polluted city in the country on Wednesday. It reported a 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 364 – up from Tuesday’s AQI of 327. The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) forecast the AQI to be in the ‘very poor’ and ‘severe’ categories for the next six days. “Meteorological conditions are unfavourable for the effective dispersion of pollutants as calm winds prevail during (Tuesday) night,” it added. According to the Indian Agricultural Research Institute data, Wednesday saw 57 cases of stubble burning in Punjab, 15 in Haryana, 68 in Uttar Pradesh and none in Delhi. Since September 15, 1,638 cases of stubble burning have been reported in Punjab and 680 in Haryana, which is the lowest when compared to the same period since 2020, IARI data showed. Meanwhile, 808 cases of stubble burning were reported in Uttar Pradesh and 11 in Delhi – the highest so far since 2020 during this period. According to the Decision Support System for Air Quality Management in Delhi, 8% of the pollutants on Tuesday were the result of stubble burning. The data on Wednesday showed that the contribution of road dust and construction activities was around 3%. The transport sector remained the highest contributor at 13.5%. Anumita Roychowdhury, Executive Director of Research and Advocacy at the Centre for Science and Environment said, “Spike in pollution even with low stubble burning shows the increasing impact of local and regional sources of pollutants in Delhi-NCR. With this being the festival season, the major cause of pollution is vehicle emissions due to traffic congestion.”

Local emissions adding fuel to fire: Why city still chokes on toxic smoke

Gurgaon: The city has been experiencing a steady rise in air pollution levels over the past week, with the average 24-hour air quality index (AQI) increasing from ‘moderate' to ‘poor'. The index was recorded at 247 on Wednesday, while it was 223 on the previous day. It has been in the poor category for the fourth consecutive day. Experts attributed this increase to changes in wind direction, low wind speed and emissions from burning of garbage and firewood, and traffic congestion and dust. The share of pollutants PM2.5 and PM10 has also gone up, as evidenced by data from Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB). According to the Decision Support System by IITM, the share of farm fire in pollution level was below 8% on Oct 22. The HSPCB data from all three air quality monitoring stations in the city revealed that PM2.5 and PM10 levels steadily increased in the past seven days. For instance, the average of PM2.5 was 185µg/m3 on Oct 17, and it touched 227µg/m3 on Oct 23. Relatively larger pollutants — PM10 — were recorded at 112µg/m3 and rose to 220µg/m3 during the same time period. According to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), surface winds with speed ranging from 4 kmph to 12 kmph are expected in the region for the next five days. The AQI is likely to deteriorate to "very poor" in the coming days as prevailing meteorological conditions and calm winds are unfavourable for effective dispersion of pollutants. "Burning of garbage, traffic congestion and broken roads are pushing the level of pollutants in the air. These get trapped in the atmosphere because of low temperature," said HSPCB regional officer (south) Vijay Chaudhary. Residents also pointed out that open burning of waste is another source despite the imposition of Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) for air pollution across NCR. "The garbage disposal system is not in place, so people tend to burn waste. Also, all major roads in the area are broken, which is leading to traffic congestion and road dust. These are major reasons that we are suffering," said Vishal Singh, a resident of Sector 85. Experts said smoke from burning waste and leaves releases pollutants that can embed themselves deep in lungs when inhaled. "Waste burning in the open releases PM2.5, PM10, oxides of nitrogen, and carbon monoxide. These make the air toxic," said Shubhansh Tiwari, a research associate at Centre for Science and Environment (CSE). A pollution department official said they are taking measures to ensure all GRAP norms are enforced. "We are closely monitoring hotspots for garbage burning and carrying out night patrols. According to GRAP rules, first-time offenders will be fined Rs 5,000, and violation for a second time will lead to a 20% hike in penalty. We are working to deal with open burning of garbage in the area, which is a big contributor to air pollution in the region. We are taking help from MCG in dealing with this problem," said a senior HSPCB official. Meanwhile, Delhi air quality deteriorated with many areas now facing severe pollution. The winds in the region were calmer and, therefore, did not efficiently dispersed pollutants. Besides, north-westerly winds also brought pollutants created by stubble burning in neighbouring states. There was an increase in local pollution sources too.The city's AQI on a scale of 0-500 was 367 at noon, which improved marginally to 364 by 4pm and to 361 by 8pm. While this indicated the air quality was in the ‘very poor' category, the air readings in Anand Vihar, Jahangir Puri, Dwarka, Vivek Vihar and Wazirpur fell to the ‘severe' category in the early afternoon, with Anand Vihar being the worst polluted, logging an AQI of 406 at noon and a fall to 433 by 8 pm.

BSNL Smartphones : BSNL Shakes Up Smartphone Market with Ultra-Affordable 5G Device

BSNL Smartphones : In a move that’s set to redefine the budget smartphone segment, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has announced its foray into the world of 5G-enabled devices with a groundbreaking offering. The state-owned telecom giant is poised to launch what could be the world’s most affordable 5G smartphone, potentially revolutionizing access to next-generation mobile technology for millions of Indians.Smartphone deals A New Era of Connectivity BSNL’s bold step into the smartphone arena comes at a crucial juncture in India’s digital transformation journey. With 5G networks rolling out across the country, there’s been a growing need for affordable devices that can harness this cutting-edge technology. BSNL’s upcoming smartphone aims to bridge this gap, bringing 5G capabilities to the masses at an unprecedented price point. Specs That Surprise Despite its budget-friendly nature, BSNL’s 5G smartphone doesn’t skimp on features. Early reports suggest a device that punches well above its weight class: Display: A compact yet crisp 5.4-inch screen with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels. The 120Hz refresh rate promises smooth scrolling and responsive touch interactions, a feature typically reserved for more premium devices. Camera: In a move that’s sure to turn heads, BSNL has equipped the phone with a 100MP main camera. This high-resolution sensor could potentially deliver stunning detail in photos, rivaling cameras found in much pricier smartphones. Battery: A robust 5000mAh battery is said to power the device, promising all-day usage even with 5G connectivity. Fast charging capabilities are also on the cards, with support for 18W charging. Storage Options: Understanding diverse user needs, BSNL plans to offer the phone in three variants: 4GB RAM with 64GB internal storage 4GB RAM with 128GB internal storage 4GB RAM with 256GB internal storage 5G Connectivity: As its headline feature, the phone will support 5G networks, future-proofing it for the next era of mobile communications. Pricing: A Game-Changer Perhaps the most exciting aspect of BSNL’s upcoming smartphone is its rumored price tag. Industry insiders suggest that the device could hit the market at a jaw-dropping price range of ₹2,000 to ₹7,000, depending on the storage variant. If these estimates hold true, it would position BSNL’s offering as not just the cheapest 5G smartphone in India, but potentially the world. This aggressive pricing strategy could be a masterstroke, potentially bringing 5G technology within reach of a vast segment of the Indian population that has thus far been priced out of the 5G market. It aligns perfectly with BSNL’s long-standing reputation as a provider of accessible telecommunication services. Market Impact and Industry Reactions The announcement of BSNL’s ultra-affordable 5G smartphone has sent ripples through the Indian telecom and smartphone industries. Competitors are reportedly scrambling to reassess their strategies in the budget segment, with some analysts predicting a potential price war in the 5G smartphone market. Renowned tech analyst Rajiv Sharma comments, “BSNL’s move could be a watershed moment for 5G adoption in India. By making 5G-capable devices accessible to a broader demographic, we might see an acceleration in the development of 5G infrastructure and services across the country.” Consumer rights activist Priya Nair adds, “This is a win for the Indian consumer. Affordable 5G devices will democratize access to high-speed internet, potentially bridging the digital divide that has long plagued our society.” Challenges and Skepticism While the announcement has generated significant buzz, some industry watchers urge caution. Questions remain about how BSNL, traditionally a telecom service provider, will manage the complexities of smartphone manufacturing and distribution. Tech reviewer Amit Gupta notes, “The specs look impressive on paper, especially at this price point. However, the real test will be in the day-to-day performance and build quality of the device. BSNL will need to ensure they don’t cut corners in crucial areas just to meet a price point.” There are also concerns about after-sales service and software support, areas where established smartphone brands have a significant head start. BSNL will need to quickly ramp up its capabilities in these domains to ensure a smooth user experience. The Road Ahead BSNL has announced that it plans to launch the smartphone in April of next year, giving the company ample time to fine-tune the device and set up the necessary infrastructure for distribution and support. The success of this venture could have far-reaching implications for BSNL and the Indian telecom industry at large. A well-received product could rejuvenate BSNL’s brand image and potentially pave the way for more hardware offerings in the future. Moreover, it could accelerate 5G adoption in India, driving the development of new apps and services that leverage the high-speed, low-latency capabilities of 5G networks. Potential Impact on Digital India Initiative The launch of an ultra-affordable 5G smartphone aligns perfectly with the government’s Digital India initiative. By making advanced mobile technology accessible to a broader segment of the population, BSNL’s device could play a crucial role in furthering digital literacy and inclusion. Dr. Arun Kumar, a policy expert on digital technologies, explains, “Affordable 5G devices can be transformative for rural India. From e-learning to telemedicine, the applications are endless. This could be the push we need to bring the benefits of digital technology to every corner of the country.” Environmental Considerations In an era of increasing environmental awareness, questions have been raised about the sustainability aspects of producing ultra-low-cost smartphones. BSNL has yet to comment on the materials and manufacturing processes for the device, but industry experts stress the importance of considering the entire lifecycle of the product. Environmental activist Sunita Narain comments, “While affordable technology is crucial for development, we must also consider the environmental impact. BSNL has an opportunity to set a new standard by incorporating sustainable practices in the production and end-of-life management of these devices.” Looking to the Future As we await more details and the official launch of BSNL’s game-changing 5G smartphone, one thing is clear: the Indian smartphone market is in for a shake-up. This bold move by a state-owned enterprise could spur innovation and competition, ultimately benefiting the end consumer. Whether BSNL can deliver on its promises remains to be seen, but the very prospect of an ultra-affordable 5G smartphone has ignited imaginations and discussions across the country. As India stands on the cusp of a 5G revolution, BSNL’s upcoming device could very well be the catalyst that propels the nation into a new era of digital connectivity. In the coming months, all eyes will be on BSNL as it prepares to unveil what could be a transformative product for the Indian market. If successful, this launch could redefine not just the budget smartphone segment, but the entire landscape of digital access in India. The countdown to April has begun, and with it, the promise of a more connected, digitally empowered India.

Delhi Tops the List: North India's Air Pollution Reaches All Time High; Full List Here

Delhi's air quality has deteriorated to dangerous levels in recent days, igniting north India's battle for clean air even before winter arrives. However, it is just not the problem of the national capital. Several cities in North India are facing the same problem of severe air pollution. While Delhi is often regarded as the most polluted city in India, this time, two cities from Haryana have taken the top spots. Check out the list of the top 10 most polluted cities in India below. Delhi’s Rising Air Pollution Delhi is at the top of the list of the nation's most polluted cities, according to real-time data. Due to the concerning rise in air pollution in Delhi, the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-II) was put into effect in Delhi-NCR on Monday. According to the Central Pollution Control Board's (CPCB) daily AQI Bulletin, Delhi's average daily AQI was 310, falling into the "Very Poor" category. Rising Pollution in Smaller Cities In addition to Delhi, several tier II and tier III cities in the North Indian states experience their worst levels of air pollution throughout the winter. According to Down to Earth, which cited a thorough analysis by the Centre for Science and Environment, North and East India continued to be the most polluted areas over the winter.

City air ‘poor’ for 3 days on trot, set to worsen, blame farm fires & wind

Gurgaon: The city's air remained in the ‘poor' category for the third consecutive day. The air quality index (AQI) rose to 226 on Tuesday, while it was recorded at 221 on the previous day. Sector 51 station recorded the highest AQI at 256, followed by Teri Gram (240) and Vikas Sadan (197). No data was available at Gwalpahari monitoring station. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), surface winds with speeds ranging from 4 kmph to 12 kmph are expected in the region for the next six days. The AQI is likely to deteriorate to ‘very poor' in the coming days as the prevailing meteorological conditions and calm winds are unfavourable for the effective dispersion of pollutants. "The AQI is likely to deteriorate to very poor in the coming days since the wind direction is likely to change to north-westerly on Wednesday, the share of stubble burning in Delhi's PM2.5 is predicted to rise to 11% on Wednesday and further to 15% on Thursday. ," said Shubhansh Tiwari, a research associate at the Centre for Science and Environment. So far this year, the state has recorded 655 cases of stubble burning, releasing particulate pollutants. According to CPCB, the annual average permissible limits for PM2.5 and PM10 are 40µg/m³ and 60µg/m³, respectively. On Tuesday, the PM2.5 level was highest in Sector 51 (203 µg/m³), followed by 189 µg/m³ in Teri Gram, and 181 µg/m³ in Vikas Sadan. The level of PM10 was the highest at Sector 51 (221 µg/m³), followed by Teri Gram (211µg/m³). Vikas Sadan doesn't record PM10 data. The share of stubble burning in Delhi's PM2.5 is predicted to rise to 11% on Wednesday and further to 15% on Thursday. According to an analysis by Climate Trends, a think tank, Haryana and Punjab recorded fluctuations in fire incidents between 2019 and 2023, with notable reductions in 2022 and 2023. The think tank's analysis of satellite data on fire incidents in Haryana showed that the fire counts dropped from 14,122 in 2019 to 7,959 in 2023, with fire activity consistently higher between Sept and Dec. While Gurgaon, Mewat, and Jhajjhar showed notable rises, Karnal and Kaithal had approximately 86% and 78% fewer cases of stubble burning, respectively. The report also stated that Delhi's air health was significantly impacted by these fire incidents. On days without fires, the city's AQI averaged 175 (moderate). However, during the same stubble-burning season, AQI increased to 233 (poor), and on days when fires exceeded climatological averages, AQI spiked to 337 (very poor). Meanwhile, Delhi's AQI spiked to 327 on Tuesday, deteriorating from 310 a day earlier, both in the 'very poor' category. No relief is expected from the haze and toxic pollution for the next few days as pollution is predicted to remain in the red category. Tuesday was the foulest day since Feb 14, when AQI was 341. Though the overall AQI remained in the 'very poor' range for the second consecutive day, Anand Vihar exceeded the city average, recording 417 in the ‘severe' category at 4pm to become the most polluted locality in the capital, according to Central Pollution Control Board data.

Food, Farmers, And The Future: Sunita Narain Explores Sustainable Eating In Her New Book

To say that Indians love their food would be a gross understatement. Whether we are tucking into Hyderabadi biryani, a masala dosa or any of the varieties of street food like chaat and vada pav, we eat not only to satisfy our taste buds and hunger but also to connect with others and reinforce our cultural identities. But will the foods we love outlast a climate crisis that is disrupting our agricultural system and impacting the nutrients and flavour profiles of the crops we grow? A new book by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) demonstrates how the colours, flavours and joys of eating locally-grown dishes goes hand in hand with preserving the ecology and biodiversity of the regions where they are grown. “First Food: Future of Taste” showcases over 100 recipes from across India so that readers can learn how to cook nourishing and delicious three-course meals to be served alongside tasty drinks and chutneys. We spoke with Sunita Narain, director general of the CSE and editor of Down to Earth magazine who presided over the creation of the book, on the challenges of making our agricultural systems more climate-resilient, how changing your diet can impact farmer incomes, and the future of veganism. Should we reassess the Green Revolution’s impact in light of the biodiversity loss and climate breakdown? AThere is already a push towards agroecological practices such as organic farming and climate-resilient agriculture in the country. Millets, which are water-prudent, have been promoted, too. Farmers are also taking up natural or zero-budget farming. These farming methods can be as productive as conventional farming if practised correctly. CSE has been promoting the inclusion of more biodiversity on the plate to increase resilience to crop failure, disasters and climate change. The four volumes in the First Food series provide individuals with ways to include biodiversity on their plate. QWhat are the barriers to overhauling our present agricultural system in order to benefit the living planet? AModern cultivation systems rely heavily on farm machinery, and changing to a more labour-intensive system might be difficult. In the case of biodiversity-based foods, over the last few decades, we have not invested in preserving the knowledge of how these ingredients could be used as food. Efforts have not been made to protect the local environments/niches where this biodiversity thrives. Additionally, the seeds and planting materials needed to include these ingredients in the fields are unavailable. Fields of Finger Millet, commonly known as Ragi in India Fields of Finger Millet, commonly known as Ragi in IndiaPhoto: Shutterstock QWhat practical actions can we take to signal to farmers to change what they grow? AIncreasing the demand for food is the biggest signal for the farmer. The popularity of millet is a clear example of this. There are specialised markets across Delhi that sell ingredients from different states. These establishments exist because demand can drive businesses. Over the recent years, we have seen ingredients such as lettuce, rocket, quinoa, moringa, sabja, and chia become popular in the country as they became global fads. What we need to do is push local ingredients in the same way. Farmers are taking up natural or zero budget farming. These farming methods can be as productive as conventional farming if practiced correctly QHow can we make millets more affordable to consumers while benefiting their growers financially and materially? AWe're fortunate to maintain a culture that embraces millets in our diet, which is evident in festivals and exclusive recipes. However, over the past 50 years, reliance on major grains like wheat and rice has marginalised millets. Lack of technological investment in harvesting and processing, relying on antiquated methods, exacerbates this decline. To mainstream millets, this must change. Moreover, insufficient high-quality seeds hinder increased production. Addressing these challenges, the government should support millet farmers, possibly by integrating millets into public distribution systems or school meals for guaranteed market access.

Delhi Air Pollution: Evaluating the Effectiveness of GRAP and Odd-Even Plans Amid Rising Pollution Levels Read more at: https://www.oneindia.com/videos/delhi-air-pollution-grap-odd-even-plans-under-scrutiny-011-4189780.html

Delhi NCR is facing a serious air pollution problem as winter approaches. The air quality index (AQI) has reached 400, indicating hazardous levels. Shambhavi Shukla from the Centre for Science and Environment explains the causes and possible solutions. The pollution is worsening due to low wind speed and increased traffic during festivals. Pollution levels have moved from moderate to very poor in recent days. The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is in place, but its measures should be enforced year-round. Public transport improvements and reduced vehicle use are suggested to ease congestion and pollution. Health impacts are severe, affecting children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions. Air pollution can cause asthma, bronchitis, and heart issues. PM 2.5 particles are particularly harmful as they enter the bloodstream, affecting overall health. Delhi has seen a 7% pollution reduction since 2019 but needs a 60% decrease to meet safe standards. Waste management is lacking in some areas, leading to waste burning. Vehicle congestion remains high despite efforts like BS-6 fuel and electric vehicles. Local sources contribute significantly to pollution, with transport being a major factor. Regional cooperation among states is essential to address the issue effectively. Individuals can help by using public transport and reporting illegal activities like waste burning. Public awareness and individual actions are crucial in tackling this problem. People should reduce private vehicle use and conserve electricity at home. These small steps can collectively make a difference in improving air quality.

दिल्ली की हवा फिर हुई दमघोंटू, GRAP-2 से कितना पड़ेगा असर?

दीवाली से पहले दिल्ली की हवा लगातार खराब होती जा रही है. राजधानी की हवा इतनी दमघोंटू हो गई है कि सांस लेना मुश्किल होने लगा है. हवा की क्वालिटी खतरे के लाल निशान तक पहुंच गई है. पराली को इसकी मुख्य वजह माना जा रहा है. केंद्रीय प्रदूषण नियंत्रण बोर्ड (CPCB) के मुताबिक, दिल्ली का औसत वायु गुणवत्ता सूचकांक (AQI) बेहद खराब श्रेणी में 317 पहुंच गया है. इसे देखते हुए GRAP-2 लागू कर दिया गया है. इसके लागू होने के बाद वायु प्रदूषण की रोकथाम के लिए फोकस और टारगेट एक्शन सुनिश्चित करने की बात कही गई है. इस दौरान यहां वैक्यूम से सफाई और निगरानी की जा रही है. GRAP-2 के दौरान लोगों से पब्लिक ट्रांसपोर्ट का इस्तेमाल करने के लिए कहा गया है जबकि निजी गाड़ियों के उपयोग को कम करने की बात कही गई है.

Building new foundations: Reimagining the International Financial Architecture

Views and proposals from civil society The international financial architecture is in urgent need of reform. In the words of UN Secretary-General António Guterres, it is "outdated, dysfunctional and unjust". The main institutions were created 80 years ago in a transatlantic agreement, at a time when many of the world's nation-states of today were still colonies. Moreover, the institutions have failed in their mission to prevent and mitigate crises and to mobilize sufficient financing for internationally agreed development goals. The reform of the international financial architecture is currently a major topic on the United Nations agenda, at major events such as the UN Summit of the Future and the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development. Parallel discussions are taking place in other fora, such as the G20 or the governance bodies of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. To inform these processes, independent researchers from academia and civil society have written this new research report. In eight chapters, the authors rethink the financial architecture and make proposals for new foundations, for fundamental reforms towards more legitimate and more effective institutions.

Delhi Air Pollution; Which Are The 22 Designated Hotspots In City? Check AREAS

New Delhi: In addition to the 13 designated pollution hotspots already identified in Delhi, nine more locations are now emerging as areas with high PM 2.5 concentrations. These newly identified locations include Mandir Marg, Pusa, Nehru Nagar, Sonia Vihar, Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, ITO, Patparganj, Lodhi Road (IITM station), and Alipur. According to TOI, the original 13 pollution hotspots, identified in 2018, include Anand Vihar, Mundka, Wazirpur, Jahangirpuri, RK Puram, Rohini, Punjabi Bagh, Okhla, Bawana, Vivek Vihar, Narela, Ashok Vihar, and Dwarka. An analysis by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) of the Central Pollution Control Board’s real-time air quality data reveals that these nine new locations have pollution levels almost as bad—or worse—than the original hotspots. Emerging hotspots such as Pusa, Lodhi Road, and Alipur have been identified, but unlike the original hotspots, they have not yet been prioritized for pollution mitigation measures, such as water sprinkling or enforcement actions against violators.

Delhi had 11 farm fires this year, highest in last four years: Satellite data

Satellite imagery of Delhi has begun to record instances of farm fires, data from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) shows. While farm fires in neighbouring Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh are on the rise, Delhi till October 21 has recorded 11 instances of stubble burning so far, which is the highest for the Capital in the last four years. Delhi logged a total of five cases in the entire season between September 15 and November 30 last year, 10 in 2022, four in 2021 and nine in 2020, data available by IARI’s Consortium for Research on Agroecosystem Monitoring and Modelling from Space (Creams) showed. Data for Delhi was not maintained before 2020. Comparative figures also show an increase in numbers so far. Till October 21 last year, Delhi had recorded two farm fires, three in 2022, none in 2021 and six in 2020. All cases logged this year are from the north and northwest districts – near the Delhi-Haryana border, Creams said. VK Sehgal, professor and principal scientist at IARI and part of Creams, said the two districts were known for growing paddy, but a clearer trend will emerge once data is gathered for another month. “Though an anomaly, we will have to wait and see until mid-November if we are recording more cases in Delhi or not. If the count goes up to 20 or 30, then we may have to assess why this is the case this year,” he said. Paras Tyagi, an activist with the NGO CYCLE India, which works with Delhi’s villages for development, said a delayed monsoon is likely to have played a part. “The withdrawal of the monsoon was delayed and most fields remained flooded throughout the monsoon season. It is likely some farmers felt the window of harvesting and growing the next crop became shorter and opted for this methodology,” he said, adding that farmers in Delhi also did not have access to happy seeders or other such machinery. Experts said instances in Delhi are not likely to have a significant impact on its air quality. “These are limited cases, but can be assessed once the season progresses. Sometimes, prolonged rains can lead to concentrated burning, but in Delhi’s case, these instances are still very few and far between,” said Anumita Roychowdhury, executive, director, research and advocacy at the Centre for Science and Environment.

Not 13, Delhi Now Has 22 Pollution Pain Points

Nehru Nagar, Sonia Vihar, Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, ITO and Patparganj are among the emerging pollution hotspots in the city, exhibiting high PM2.5 concentrations. The Centre for Science and Environment's analysis of the Central Pollution Control Board's real-time air quality data shows that there are nine locations in Delhi with almost the same or worse pollution levels than the city's 13 pollution hotspots designated in 2018. Among the emerging hotspots are Pusa, Lodhi Road (IITM station) and Alipur. At the original hotspots, agencies concerned focus on pollution mitigation measures like water sprinkling and enforcement teams act against violators. The new hotspots haven't been prioritised for similar action. Data shows that Nehru Nagar near Lajpat Nagar recorded an annual average PM2.5 concentration of 118 micrograms per cubic metre in 2022, 120 in 2023 and 90 micrograms per cubic metre till Oct 20 this year, all much higher than the national annual ambient average PM2.5 level of 40 micrograms per cubic metre. In the last three years, Nehru Nagar has fared worse than most original hotspots. Lodhi Road (IITM station) is another non-hotspot which has seen toxic pollution levels at 118 micrograms per cubic metre in 2022, 111 in 2023 and 75 so far in 2024. Anumita Roychowdhury, executive director, research and advocacy, CSE, said, "The only way to prevent the proliferation of new hotspots is to implement city-wide stringent measures to reduce emissions from all key pollution sources." Sunil Dahiya, founder and lead analyst, Envirocatalysts, said no new hotspots should be ignored and should become part of the focus areas. "Systematic action year-round is necessary to reduce emissions and kill local and regional pollution at the source. Apart from original hotspots, the new hotspots should also feature in the list of places for targeted action," said Dahiya. In 2023, the locations in the capital that showed the worst pollution levels included ITO (100 micrograms per cubic metre), Patparganj (109), Sonia Vihar (108), Alipur and Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium (99 each), Mandir Marg (94) and Pusa (92).

World Bank Report Highlights Poverty and Climate Challenges

This post on World Bank Report Highlights Poverty and Climate Challenges has been created based on the article “Extreme weather obstacle to an equitable world, as 3.53 billion people continue to live in poverty” published in Down to Earth on 21st October 2024. Why in news? According to the World Bank’s latest report, extreme weather will be a significant obstacle to achieving a more equitable world, with 3.53 billion people still living in poverty in 2024. Findings of the report 1. Climate shocks, including extreme weather events, devastate livelihoods and trap vulnerable populations in a cycle of poverty. These shocks are especially difficult to recover from, particularly for those living in low-income countries without access to adequate infrastructure and resources. 2. In 2024, 692 million people are living in extreme poverty, defined as subsisting on less than $2.15 per day. When measured against the higher poverty standard of $6.85 per day, 43.6% of the global population or approximately 3.53 billion people are classified as living in poverty. 3. The slow progress in poverty alleviation reflects a “polycrisis” caused by factors such as the pandemic, slow economic growth, increased conflict, and climate change. 4. In 2024, South Asia is home to 1.48 billion poor people, while Sub-Saharan Africa has 1.11 billion poor people. Together, these regions account for 73% of the global poor. 5. By 2030, 7.3% of the world’s population could still be living on less than $2.15 a day, which is more than double the global goal of reducing extreme poverty to 3%. 6. Long-Term Poverty Reduction Goals: It could take over a century to lift individuals above the $6.85 per day threshold, according to current projections. 7. Rising Income Disparities: The World Bank’s report warns of growing income inequality, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America, with many countries in these regions showing Gini index scores above 40. 8. High Inequality in Southern and Central Africa: Inequality is most pronounced in Southern and Central Africa, exacerbating the challenge of poverty reduction. 9. Climate Shocks and Economic Growth i) Vulnerability to Extreme Weather: South Asia, with 88.1% of its population exposed to climate risks, and Sub-Saharan Africa, home to the highest number of people at severe risk, are particularly vulnerable to climate shocks such as floods, heatwaves, and cyclones. ii) Need for Inclusive Economic Growth: The World Bank emphasizes the importance of inclusive economic growth to lift people out of poverty. This growth must be complemented by investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and access to markets. 10. Building Resilience to Climate Impacts i) Targeted Climate Adaptation Strategies: Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia require targeted adaptation strategies to withstand the impacts of extreme weather. The report calls for stronger social protection systems, including healthcare, education, and employment opportunities. ii) Progressive Fiscal Policies: Countries must adopt progressive fiscal policies that increase domestic revenue while reducing inequality, ensuring that vulnerable populations benefit from economic growth. iii) Strengthening Insurance Mechanisms: To protect vulnerable populations from falling deeper into poverty during climate disasters, the report recommends strengthening insurance mechanisms and other safety nets.