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Delhi’s air quality likely to slip into ‘poor’ category soon

Delhi's air quality worsened on Saturday, reaching almost close to the ‘poor' category. At 4 pm, the (AQI) was 199—at the extreme end of the ‘moderate' range — according to Central Pollution Control Board's (CPCB) 24-hour average daily bulletin. The city last recorded a ‘poor' air quality day on June 11, with an AQI of 245, prior to the arrival of the Southwest monsoon. The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi (EWS), which functions under the union ministry of earth sciences, has stated that city's air quality is likely to remain in the ‘poor' category from Sunday till Oct 14. Experts said that efforts should be intensified to reduce emissions. Anumita Roychowdhury, executive director, research and advocacy, Centre for Science and Environment, said, "We are entering the season of pollution emergency action once again. How severely polluted this winter will be is yet to be seen. W

As temperature dips,NCR’s air quality slips to ‘poor’too

Noida: After a week of clear skies and rain that kept pollution levels in check, air quality in Noida, Greater Noida, and Ghaziabad worsened sharply over the weekend as temperatures dipped, trapping pollutants close to the ground. Experts have urged authorities to intensify emission-control measures. Anumita Roychowdhury of the Centre for Science and Environment said stronger, source-specific preventive action is needed ahead of the pollution season. Former CPCB scientist Dipankar Saha added that weakening meteorological conditions after the monsoon trap emissions near the ground, worsening air across the Indo-Gangetic plains.

Green Crackers: Less Toxic, But Still a Choking Hazard for Delhi’s Air This Diwali

“They’re better, not best—think diet soda with sugar,” quipped environmentalist Sunita Narain. Last Diwali, green variants correlated with 15% more respiratory cases in hospitals. As Diwali 2025 approaches, Delhi’s battle against air pollution intensifies with the rise of “green crackers”—touted as low-emission alternatives. But a new study on October 11 reveals they’re far from harmless, still contributing to the toxic smog that chokes the city, urging a rethink on festive traditions. The Green Facade Cracked Mandated by the Supreme Court since 2018, green crackers reduce barium nitrate by 30% and shell size by 20%, cutting PM10 emissions marginally. Yet, research from IIT Delhi shows they elevate AQI by 40-50 points during bursts, releasing ammonia and particulate matter that irritate lungs. “They’re better, not best—think diet soda with sugar,” quipped environmentalist Sunita Narain. Last Diwali, green variants correlated with 15% more respiratory cases in hospitals. Health Toll and City Struggles Delhi’s winter smog, already dire from stubble burning, sees green crackers add fuel to the fire—literally. Vulnerable groups like kids and asthmatics face heightened risks of bronchitis and heart strain. The CAQM has imposed timed bursts, but enforcement lags.Buy vitamins and supplements Greener Alternatives? Experts advocate drone shows, community lasers, and oil lamps over fireworks. “Celebrate light, not smoke,” campaigns the Green Peace NGO. With AQI hovering at 250 today, will Delhiites choose health over habit?

India Broom And Mop Market Size, Growth, and Forecast 2025-2033

According to the Centre for Science and Environment, 60-70% of cleaning products sold in India don't disclose their chemical compositions, which poses potential health and environmental risks. According to IMARC Group's latest research publication, "India Broom and Mop Market Size, Share, Trends and Forecast by Product Type, Distribution Channel, Region, and Company, 2025-2033", the India broom and mop market size reached USD 0.13 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, the market is expected to reach USD 0.20 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 4.80% during 2025-2033. This detailed analysis primarily encompasses industry size, business trends, market share, key growth factors, and regional forecasts. The report offers a comprehensive overview and integrates research findings, market assessments, and data from different sources. It also includes pivotal market dynamics like drivers and challenges, while also highlighting growth opportunities, financial insights, technological improvements, emerging trends, and innovations. Besides this, the report provides regional market evaluation, along with a competitive landscape analysis. Growth Factors in the India Broom and Mop Market ● Rising Health Consciousness and Hygiene Standards Driving Demand India's broom and mop market is experiencing a fundamental shift as consumers become increasingly aware of cleanliness and its direct connection to health. The numbers tell a compelling story about changing priorities. According to the Centre for Science and Environment, 60-70% of cleaning products sold in India don't disclose their chemical compositions, which poses potential health and environmental risks. This revelation has sparked a growing movement toward transparency and safer cleaning alternatives. What's particularly interesting is how hygiene consciousness has moved beyond just urban metros-it's now spreading across tier-2 and tier-3 cities as well. Families are paying closer attention to indoor air quality, especially after spending more time at home. The average Indian household generates around 500 grams of plastic waste every month just from cleaning materials alone, which has prompted many consumers to rethink their cleaning product choices. This awareness isn't just about personal health anymore; it's about creating healthier living environments for children and elderly family members who are more vulnerable to allergens and chemical exposure. The shift is visible in how people shop-consumers are now reading labels, asking questions about materials used, and actively seeking products that clean effectively without leaving behind chemical residues. Traditional cleaning tools are being reevaluated through this new lens of health-consciousness, creating opportunities for manufacturers who can deliver on both cleaning performance and safety credentials. ● Growing Preference for Eco-Friendly and Chemical-Free Cleaning Products The environmental consciousness sweeping through Indian consumers is reshaping the broom and mop market in significant ways. Natural fiber cleaning tools made from bamboo, cotton, and jute are finding increased acceptance as people look for genuine alternatives to synthetic products. This trend reflects a broader shift in consumer values-people want products that work well but don't come with hidden environmental or health costs. The interesting thing is that eco-friendly doesn't mean compromising on performance anymore. Modern natural fiber brooms and mops are engineered to deliver cleaning efficiency that rivals synthetic alternatives, making the choice easier for consumers who were previously hesitant. Urban consumers, particularly younger professionals and families with children, are leading this charge toward greener cleaning solutions. They're willing to invest in products that align with their values about sustainability and environmental responsibility. The rural market is showing similar patterns, though driven by different factors-natural fiber products often cost less and have better durability, making them economically attractive in addition to being environmentally sound. What makes this shift sustainable is that it's not just a passing trend-it's rooted in genuine concerns about the chemical load in our homes and the environmental impact of plastic-heavy cleaning products. Manufacturers who can communicate the benefits of natural materials while delivering consistent quality are finding receptive audiences across income segments and geographic locations. ● Technological Innovation Making Cleaning More Efficient and User-Friendly The Indian broom and mop market is witnessing a quiet revolution through technological advancement and thoughtful product design. Traditional cleaning tools are being reimagined with features that make the actual work of cleaning easier and more effective. Microfiber mops have gained significant traction because they genuinely perform better-they pick up more dirt, trap dust more effectively, and are easier to clean and maintain compared to conventional cotton mops. The innovation extends beyond just materials; spray mops that let users dispense cleaning solution directly onto floors have become popular in both homes and commercial spaces because they save time and reduce the mess associated with bucket-and-mop systems. Ergonomic design improvements are addressing a real pain point-literally. Brooms and mops with better handle designs, adjustable heights, and weight distribution that reduces strain are finding ready buyers, especially among older consumers and professional cleaning services who use these tools for extended periods. What's driving adoption of these advanced products is that they deliver tangible benefits-cleaning gets done faster, with less physical effort, and often with better results. The pricing of innovative products has also become more accessible as manufacturing scales up and competition increases. E-commerce platforms play a crucial role here, providing detailed product information, comparison capabilities, and customer reviews that help buyers make informed decisions about investing in better cleaning tools. This technological evolution isn't just about adding features-it's about genuinely solving problems that users face during regular cleaning tasks. ● E-Commerce Expansion Opening New Distribution Channels The growth of online retail has transformed how Indians purchase brooms and mops, creating unprecedented market access and consumer choice. Digital commerce platforms are doing more than just facilitating transactions-they're educating consumers, showcasing product varieties that might not be available in local stores, and making comparison shopping effortless. The numbers reveal the scale of this shift: online buyers in tier-2 and tier-3 cities increased from 46% in financial year 2019-20 to 56% in FY24, with projections pointing toward 64% by FY30. This expansion is particularly significant for the cleaning products category because it overcomes traditional distribution challenges. Rural and semi-urban consumers now have access to the same product range that was previously available only in major cities. E-commerce giants like Amazon and Flipkart stock extensive varieties of brooms and mops, from basic models to advanced microfiber and spray mop systems. Customer reviews provide social proof that helps hesitant buyers make purchase decisions, while competitive pricing ensures value for money. Home delivery solves the practical problem of transporting bulky cleaning tools, which was a genuine barrier for many consumers who relied on two-wheelers for transportation. The convenience factor can't be overstated-busy professionals can order cleaning supplies during lunch breaks and have them delivered by evening. Online-exclusive brands have also emerged, offering innovative products at competitive prices by eliminating traditional retail margins. This channel expansion is democratizing access to quality cleaning tools, breaking down the geographic and economic barriers that previously limited consumer choices in this category. Key Trends in the India Broom and Mop Market ● Regional Distribution Patterns Reflecting Varied Consumer Preferences The India broom and mop market shows distinct regional characteristics that reflect diverse consumer behaviors, economic conditions, and cultural practices across the country. North India, encompassing states with large urban centers like Delhi, Punjab, and Haryana, demonstrates strong demand driven by higher disposable incomes and exposure to modern cleaning products through retail chains and e-commerce platforms. The region's harsh weather conditions also play a role-dust accumulation during summer months creates consistent demand for effective sweeping solutions. South India presents interesting dynamics with its mix of traditional and modern cleaning practices. States like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana, with their booming IT sectors and growing middle class, show increasing adoption of advanced mop systems and ergonomic brooms. The region's cleanliness culture, evident in practices like daily floor washing, sustains steady demand for quality mopping solutions. East India, including West Bengal, Bihar, and Odisha, represents a value-conscious market where durability and price point matter significantly. Traditional brooms made from natural fibers maintain strong presence here, though urban centers like Kolkata are seeing gradual adoption of modern cleaning tools. West India, particularly Maharashtra and Gujarat, combines strong purchasing power with diverse consumer segments-from traditional households preferring time-tested cleaning methods to modern apartments using advanced spray mops and microfiber systems. Maharashtra's commercial capital Mumbai drives substantial institutional demand through its hotels, offices, and commercial establishments. These regional variations create opportunities for manufacturers to develop tailored product portfolios that address specific local preferences while maintaining national brand presence. ● Distribution Channel Evolution Balancing Traditional and Modern Retail The way Indians purchase brooms and mops is diversifying rapidly, creating a multi-layered distribution landscape that serves different consumer segments effectively. Supermarkets and hypermarkets have emerged as important channels, especially in urban areas where these large-format stores provide organized displays, product variety, and the convenience of one-stop shopping for household needs. Stores like Big Bazaar, Reliance Retail, and D-Mart allocate significant shelf space to cleaning products, recognizing them as regular purchase items that drive footfall. These modern retail formats offer consumers the ability to physically inspect products, compare options side-by-side, and often benefit from promotional pricing. Convenience stores, including traditional kirana shops and neighborhood stores, continue to play a vital role, particularly for replacement purchases and emergency needs. Their strength lies in accessibility-they're located within walking distance for most consumers and offer the personal touch of familiar shopkeepers who understand local preferences. These stores stock popular, fast-moving variants and provide credit facilities for regular customers, maintaining their relevance despite modern retail growth. Online retail, as previously discussed, is the fastest-growing channel, bringing together the product range of large stores with the convenience of home delivery. What's particularly interesting is how these channels complement rather than completely replace each other. Consumers often research products online, make first purchases from physical stores to evaluate quality, and then switch to online ordering for repeat purchases. Commercial buyers-hotels, offices, hospitals, and cleaning service companies-often use institutional supply channels or bulk-purchase through online platforms to get better pricing. This channel diversity ensures that products reach consumers through their preferred shopping method, maximizing market coverage and accessibility. ● Product Differentiation Creating Specialized Market Segments The India broom and mop market is moving away from one-size-fits-all offerings toward specialized products designed for specific cleaning tasks and consumer preferences. This segmentation creates opportunities for manufacturers to capture different price points and usage scenarios. Brooms now come in varieties optimized for different floor types-soft bristle versions for delicate flooring like marble and tiles, stiffer options for concrete and outdoor areas, and compact designs for small apartments. Natural fiber brooms appeal to eco-conscious consumers and those seeking traditional cleaning methods, while synthetic bristle variants attract buyers looking for durability and consistent performance. Mop categories show even greater differentiation. Traditional cotton mops maintain market share due to familiarity and low cost, particularly in price-sensitive segments. Microfiber mops command premium pricing by offering superior cleaning performance and longer lifespan. Spray mops target convenience-focused consumers, particularly working professionals who want quick and efficient cleaning solutions. Flat mops with disposable or washable pads appeal to those seeking hygienic options that avoid the bacterial growth issues associated with traditional mop heads. Ergonomic innovations-telescopic handles, rotating heads, hands-free wringing systems-create sub-segments within broader categories. This product diversity allows manufacturers to serve different consumer needs effectively while protecting themselves from price-based competition. Retailers benefit from being able to offer choice that matches customer requirements and budget constraints. The trend toward specialization reflects market maturity-as consumers become more discerning about cleaning tools, they're willing to invest in products that precisely match their specific needs rather than settling for generic solutions.

The Global Climate Imperative: Escalating Risks and Urgent Call for Net-Zero Action

Sunita Narain of the Centre for Science and Environment aptly notes, "Climate change is a multiplier of poverty and inequality in India, disproportionately impacting the most vulnerable." India's demand for $1 trillion annually in climate finance from developed nations at COP28 underscores its call for equity and accountability. In 2025, the global community confronts a climate crisis of unparalleled scale and speed. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) warns that limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels requires greenhouse gas emissions to peak before 2025 and decline by 43% by 2030. Failure risks crossing "tipping points" with catastrophic consequences. The United Nations Environment Programme's Emissions Gap Report 2024 reinforces this, highlighting that current national commitments leave a "significant emissions gap" and make exceeding 1.5°C "virtually unavoidable" without rapid, transformative action. According to IPCC Working Group I, "Human influence has warmed the climate at a rate unprecedented in at least the last 2000 years," and delaying emissions reductions will drastically reduce the feasibility of climate stabilization. UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized at COP29 that the 1.5°C limit is now "on life support," reflecting the dire need for accelerated global response. Escalating Climate Risks: Impacts on Humanity and Nature The physical manifestations of climate change intensify annually. Sea levels are projected to rise between 0.3 and 1 meter by 2100, threatening 200 million people with displacement. The World Meteorological Organization reports 2024 as one of the hottest years on record, with extreme events such as heatwaves killing thousands in South Asia and Europe, floods submerging 30% of Pakistan, and wildfires in Canada and Australia causing $200 billion in insured losses. The IPCC reports that biodiversity loss is accelerating with one million species at risk of extinction, disrupting essential ecosystem services. The World Bank estimates annual global economic damages from climate change could amount to 2-5% of global GDP by 2050 if emissions continue unabated. As Kristalina Georgieva, IMF Managing Director, states, "Climate change risks putting decades of development progress at risk and threatens global economic stability." Climate change exacerbates existing global inequalities. Low-income countries contribute only 10% of historical emissions but face 75% of the costs of adaptation, projected between $215 billion and $387 billion annually by 2030, per UNEP's Adaptation Gap Report. The Global Commission on Adaptation finds that every dollar invested in climate resilience generates $4 in economic benefits and lives saved. Yet, only 15% of required finance reaches vulnerable nations, fueling "a finance gap that imperils the most affected populations." According to the World Resources Institute, failure to close this gap risks perpetuating cycles of poverty and displacement. The UN High-Level Climate Champions assert that "climate finance must enhance equity and prioritize the most vulnerable." Methane Mitigation: A Critical Short-Term Lever Methane, although short-lived, has 80 times the warming effect of CO2 over 20 years, driving 25% of current global warming. Major contributors include agriculture (40%), fossil fuel extraction (35%), and waste management (20%). The Global Methane Assessment, led by climate scientist Drew Shindell, notes that rapid methane reduction is critical: "Cutting methane emissions can slow warming by 0.2°C within a few decades, buying critical time." UNEP data further indicate that methane reduction efforts are cost-effective and politically feasible, yet global emissions continue rising. Addressing methane offers the fastest potential for immediate climate benefits, alongside long-term CO2 mitigation. Ocean and Cryosphere Changes: The Underappreciated Crisis The Earth's oceans and cryosphere are undergoing profound transformation. Antarctica and Greenland are losing approximately 500 billion tons of ice annually, contributing to sea-level rise and threatening coastal communities. Ocean acidification has increased by 30% since pre-industrial times, impairing coral reefs and jeopardizing fisheries that sustain 3 billion people globally. The IPCC highlights that marine ecosystems are "at risk of critical functional impairment," with cascading effects on global food security. As the Pew Charitable Trusts emphasize, "Healthy oceans are vital for climate regulation, biodiversity, and livelihoods, yet remain underfunded priorities in the climate agenda." India at the Nexus of Vulnerability and Leadership India exemplifies the disproportionate burden few nations bear in the climate crisis. Ranking seventh on the Global Climate Risk Index, it faces frequent extreme weather events that displace millions. The country emits 7% of global greenhouse gases, but its per capita emissions are roughly half the world average. India's cumulative emissions since 1850 account for only 4% globally, reflecting historical development inequities. Yet climate impacts threaten a projected 15% GDP loss by 2050, with agricultural losses alone estimated at ₹7 trillion ($85 billion). A 2024–25 Yale survey shows 91% of Indian adults fear climate change, driven by direct experiences such as heatwaves and monsoon irregularities affecting over half the agricultural workforce. Sunita Narain of the Centre for Science and Environment aptly notes, "Climate change is a multiplier of poverty and inequality in India, disproportionately impacting the most vulnerable." India's demand for $1 trillion annually in climate finance from developed nations at COP28 underscores its call for equity and accountability.

Does India need to choose either EU or US EPA standards?

Analysts from the Centre for Science and Environment note that India has no certification scheme for CEMS. Laboratories capable of performing field calibrations and relative accuracy audits are few, and there is no formal recognition system. India’s struggle with air pollution is well known. From thermal power plants belching sulphur dioxide to the acrid fumes of brick kilns, the country’s emissions often eclipse the limits set in law. In response, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change began mandating continuous emissions monitoring systems (CEMS) and effluent monitoring for 17 categories of highly polluting industries more than a decade ago. Find your next air quality monitoring instrument in our international directory. Those monitors now number more than 30,000 across some 6,000 industrial facilities. The idea is to move from occasional spot checks to real‑time, regulator‑controlled surveillance. Yet the detail of how those systems are approved and quality‑assured is arguably as important as the sheer number of monitors installed. An overview of India's certification system At first glance, India’s strategy seems sensible: rather than wait for its own certification scheme, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) accepts two well-established approaches – the European Union’s type‑approved monitors and the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) performance‑based specification tests. CEMS must be shown to be fit for purpose using either European Quality Assurance Levels (QAL) or US performance specifications. In practice that has created what one industry commentator calls a hybrid system, where regulators recommend certified CEMS but also allow non‑certified devices if they pass performance tests during installation. To encourage domestic manufacturing, Indian operators are free to choose either route. EU vs. US standards The two standards, however, are built on very different philosophies. In the EU, continuous monitors must be put through a rigorous type‑approval process. Under schemes such as the UK’s MCERTS or Germany’s TÜV/UBA approval, a complete analyser – including sample probe, conditioning unit and data acquisition – is tested against harmonised standards like EN 15267 and EN 14181. Each certificate specifies the pollutants measured, the certified range of concentrations and the limitations of use. Once approved, that device can be treated as plug‑and‑play: operators are expected to perform only limited on‑site calibration before entering service and to follow prescribed calibration and surveillance intervals (QAL2, QAL3 and annual surveillance tests). The system is expensive and takes time – certification may last between six months and two and a half years – but the reward is a high degree of confidence in the data and comparability between sites. The EPA approach could not be more different. Instead of approving instruments in the lab, the US federal rules set out performance specifications in 40 CFR Parts 60 and 75. Any device – whether home‑built or imported – can be installed as long as it passes a suite of tests at the stack or duct itself. These include a seven‑day calibration drift check, three‑day correlation tests against reference methods, quarterly linearity checks and annual Relative Accuracy Test Audits (RATA). The onus is on the plant operator to prove to regulators that their equipment meets the specification and continues to do so over time. This site‑specific philosophy offers flexibility and fosters innovation but it demands a great deal of operator competence and regulatory oversight. An impossible system? Accepting both systems simultaneously introduces practical tensions. A European device certified for a particular range and process might be treated as plug‑and‑play, yet India’s guidance manual also requires monitors to demonstrate performance during installation. If a TÜV‑approved analyser fails a seven‑day drift test, should it be rejected despite its certificate? Conversely, a non‑certified, perhaps cheaper, monitor might pass its initial calibration and correlation tests but later be found unstable. The EU’s QAL regime emphasises long‑term stability (zero and span checks, quarterly tests and annual surveillance), while the EPA’s system focuses on initial drift and correlation, with the operator legally responsible for keeping the system in control. These regimes are not interchangeable. A QAL‑certified monitor may not satisfy US tolerance thresholds, while a monitor designed for US specifications may lack an EU‑style certification range or the detailed documentation regulators expect. There are also more subtle incompatibilities. European emission limits are expressed at 0 °C with an oxygen reference of 11% and use standardised averaging periods, whereas US limits use a 7% oxygen reference and different averaging intervals. European certificates are issued in normal cubic metres (Nm³), while US practice refers to dry standard cubic feet. Without consistent conversion, combining data streams from both systems risks misinterpretation. Moreover, the conditions in which an EU‑certified monitor is tested may not reflect the hot, dusty or corrosive environments found in many Indian stacks. If a device certified for relatively low particulate loads is used on a coal‑fired boiler with poorly operating electrostatic precipitators, does its certificate still inspire confidence? A lack of capacity The absence of a domestic certification and laboratory accreditation system compounds the problem. Analysts from the Centre for Science and Environment note that India has no certification scheme for CEMS. Laboratories capable of performing field calibrations and relative accuracy audits are few, and there is no formal recognition system. The result is predictable: regulators do not trust the data. Only about half of coal‑fired power plants regularly supply emissions data, despite almost universal installation of monitors. There is almost no reliable data on mercury emissions, and poor‑quality sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides measurements were common. Without trust, real‑time monitoring cannot be used for enforcement and the promise of transparency evaporates.

A new collection explores the life of water in the time of climate change

Water future in a climate-risked world by Sunita Narain In this decade we will see the revenge of nature as climate change impacts increase. We need to scale our work to invest in local water systems to capture every drop of rain, so that we can build local resilience against drought. We also need to do it in our cities – lakes and ponds are the sponges that will allow us to harvest the rain-flood and make sure it does not become wasted water. We need to protect our forests and green spaces, as this is how water recharge will increase. In these times of water stress, not only must we make sure that wastewater or sewage is treated, but that it is recycled and reused. The waterbodies that we protect in our cities – the same ponds and tanks that we use to divert and harvest rainwater – can be used to channelise the treated sewage, and in turn, recharge groundwater. Water to water. We can be water-secure if we are water-wise. In the past few years, climate records have tumbled like never before. First, the planet observed its hottest June on record. Then came July, which recorded the hottest two weeks ever. In June, the surface temperature of the world’s oceans was the highest ever; Antarctica’s ice was the thinnest ever. The heat has gone off the charts in many parts of the world. Never before have there been extreme rainfall events that have resulted in such large-scale loss of property and lives. Scientists warn that this is only the beginning of our season of despair, because much is changing in the natural world around us.

In 21-day window, Haryana sees 95% drop from last year in early farm fires

Haryana recorded just seven cases of paddy residue burning between Sept 15 and Oct 6 this year, marking a steep 95% drop compared to 150 incidents reported during the same period last year. The state witnessed 4.7% farm fires this year as compared to 2024 in the same period. The seven incidents were scattered across a few districts, according to satellite data compiled by Indian Agricultural Research Institute. Faridabad reported two cases, while Fatehabad, Jind, Kurukshetra, Palwal and Sonipat recorded one case each. The active fire events were tracked using satellite remote sensing under the "Standard Protocol for Estimation of Crop Residue Burning Fire Events, " which flagged zero incidents across Haryana on Oct 6. Major rice-growing districts — such as Karnal, Kaithal and Ambala, which usually see high numbers of stubble-burning events — reported no incidents so far this year. Haryana has seen large fluctuations in paddy residue burning over the years. In the same period, the state recorded 209 cases in 2023, 74 in 2022, 24 in 2021 and 207 in 2020. Officials credit the current sharp decline to early interventions, increased adoption of crop residue management machinery and stricter field monitoring. A senior official from the Haryana Pollution Control Board said, "Farmers are increasingly using balers and happy seeders to manage paddy residue. Awareness campaigns and local enforcement have also helped. But the real test will come in the next few weeks as harvesting peaks across the state." Shubhansh Tiwari, a research associate with the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), said, "Authorities are stepping up on-ground monitoring and drone surveillance to ensure the low-burning trend continues through the peak harvest period in mid-Oct. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether Haryana can sustain this significant reduction and avoid the sharp pollution spikes historically associated with post-harvest stubble burning

दार्जिलिंग की आपदा

पश्चिम बंगाल के पहाड़ों की रानी कहे जाने वाले दार्जिलिंग में भारी बारिश और भूस्खलन से तबाही मच गई है जिसने 23 लोगों की जान ले ली। सैकड़ों घर तबाह हो गए, सड़कें बह गईं। इसके चलते सिक्किम राज्य से भी सम्पर्क टूट गया। भूस्खलन से दार्जिलिंग के पास जलपाईगुड़ी जिला भी बुरी तरह से प्रभावित हुआ। बालासोन नदी पर बना दूधिया पुल भी टूट गया जिससे सिलीगुड़ी और मिरिक का सम्पर्क भी टूट गया। पश्चिम बंगाल सरकार ने तुरंत राहत और बचाव कार्य शुरू किए। इसी बीच भूटान ने वांगचू नदी में जलस्तर की वृद्धि के कारण उत्तरी बंगाल में बाढ़ की चेतावनी दे दी है। उत्तराखंड और हिमाचल की प्राकृतिक आपदाओं के बाद हिमालय के पर्वतीय क्षेत्र दार्जिलिंग में भूस्खलन यद्यपि एक सामान्य प्राकृतिक घटना है लेकिन यह आपदा हमें सतर्क कर रही है कि लोकप्रिय हिल स्टेशन में सब कुछ ठीक नहीं है। वैसे तो अपनी खूबसूरती और स्वास्थ्यवर्धक जलवायु के लिए मशहूर दार्जिलिंग अतीत में कई प्राकृतिक आपदाओं का शिकार रहा है। उपलब्ध रिकॉर्ड बताते हैं कि 1899, 1934, 1950, 1968, 1975, 1980, 1991 और हाल ही में 2011 और 2015 में बड़े पैमाने पर भूस्खलन हुए थे। 1968 में अक्तूबर में ही विनाशकारी बाढ़ आई थी, जिसमें एक हज़ार से ज़्यादा लोग मारे गए थे। गैर-लाभकारी संस्था सेंटर फॉर साइंस एंड एनवायरनमेंट द्वारा प्रकाशित पर्यावरण स्थिति रिपोर्ट, 1991 में कहा गया है कि 1902-1978 के दौरान तीस्ता घाटी में बादल फटने की नौ घटनाएं हुईं। देशभर में आपदा की व्यापकता ने पर्यावरणविदों और शोधकर्ताओं को चिन्ता में डाल दिया है। पहाड़ों का अध्ययन करने वाले शोधकर्ताओं का कहना है कि हिमालय अभी भी बढ़ रहा है और अपनी प्रकृति में युवा है। यदि इसकी उचित देखभाल नहीं की गई तो दार्जिलिंग में उत्तराखंड और हिमाचल जैसी प्रलय आ सकती है। जनसंख्या में लगातार बढ़ौतरी, पर्यटकों की लगातार बढ़ती संख्या, दार्जि​लिंग और आसपास के क्षेत्रों यहां तक कि सिक्किम की नाजुक परिस्थितिकी तंत्र पर दबाव डाल रही है। पूर्वी हिमालय के समग्र पर्यावरणीय क्षरण से पहाड़ नंगे और बदसूरत हो चुके हैं। लगातार वनों की कटाई से मिट्टी के कटाव की समस्या बढ़ गई है। झरनों के सूखने और पानी के स्तर में बदलाव से भी समस्या बढ़ गई है। जिस तरह से इमारतों का प्रसार हुआ है और पहाड़ी क्षेत्रों में बहुमंजिला इमारतें बनती जा रही हैं जिनमें उचित जल निकासी की व्यवस्था भी नहीं है। पहाड़ क्षेत्र भी भीड़भाड़ वाले होते जा रहे हैं। पुराना आकर्षण खत्म हो गया है। पर्यटकों को ले जाने वाले वाहनों की संख्या बढ़ने से प्रदूषण बढ़ चुका है। भारतीय अंतरिक्ष अनुसंधान संगठन (इसरो) द्वारा प्रकाशित भारत के भूस्खलन एटलस 2023 में, दार्जिलिंग को 147 जिलों में सबसे अधिक प्रभावित क्षेत्र के रूप में 35वें स्थान पर रखा गया था। कलिम्पोंग के कर्नल प्रफुल राव के नेतृत्व वाले सेव द हिल्स सहित कई स्थानीय गैर सरकारी संगठन सोशल मीडिया पर तथा ठोस बहसों और जागरूकता अभियानों के माध्यम से इन खतरों को उजागर कर रहे हैं। सिक्किम में अक्तूबर 2023 में ल्होनक झील के टूटने से उत्पन्न होने वाली ग्लेशियल झील विस्फोट बाढ़ (जीएलओएफ) के बारे में सिक्किम मानव विकास रिपोर्ट 2001 में बहुत जोरदार चेतावनी दी गई थी। इस जीएलओएफ ने न केवल कई लोगों की जान ले ली, बल्कि 1200 मेगावाट की चुंगथांग जल विद्युत परियोजना को बहा ले गया, कई सार्वजनिक और सैन्य प्रतिष्ठानों को नष्ट कर दिया और अनुमानित 25,000 करोड़ रुपये से अधिक की क्षति हुई जो 2022-23 के सिक्किम के सकल घरेलू उत्पाद का लगभग 60 प्रतिशत है। पश्चिम बंगाल के दार्जिलिंग और जलपाईगुड़ी जिलों के निचले तटवर्ती क्षेत्रों तथा बंगलादेश में इसके कारण हुई भारी तबाही का अभी तक कोई हिसाब नहीं है। भारी वर्षा के साथ लम्बी अवधि के दौरान जल भराव बढ़ जाता है जिससे संवेदनशील ढलानों पर भूस्खलन का खतरा बढ़ता है। ग्रामीण और ऊंची पहाडि़यों में लोग ईंधन के रूप में लकड़ी का इस्तेमाल करते हैं। इसलिए पेड़ों की अवैध कटाई लगातार जारी है। ब्रिटिश काल में भवन निर्माण मानदंडों और ​दिशा-निर्देश पूरी तरह से त्याग दिए गए। पहाड़ों को बचाने के लिए कोई कारगर योजना लागू ही नहीं की गई। तत्कालिक आर्थिक लाभ और तीव्र विकास ने पर्यावरण को संकट में डाल दिया है। प्राकृति मनुष्य के हाथों वर्षों से चली रही खामोश बदनामी और निरंतर अनादर का बदला लेने के लिए पलटवार करती दिखाई दे रही है। जितना मानव ने प्रकृति को नुक्सान पहुंचाया है उतना किसी ने नहीं पहुंचाया है। सरकारों को चाहिए कि कारणों की पहचान कर उनके निवारण के निष्कर्षों से पता चलता है कि न तो भूस्खलन को रोकना संभव है न ही इसके नुक्सान को पूरी तरह से समाप्त करना ले​किन कुछ बुनियादी उपायों और सार्वजनिक जागरूकता के साथ काम किया जाए तो नुक्सान की संभावना को सीमित किया जा सकता है।

Delhi govt to approach SC for lifting ban on green firecrackers during Diwali

The Delhi government plans to petition the Supreme Court to relax restrictions on green firecrackers during the upcoming Diwali festival, according to Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. In a statement issued Monday, Gupta emphasized the importance of balancing environmental protection with cultural traditions. She noted that green firecrackers, designed to emit lower levels of pollutants compared to traditional varieties, could offer a compromise for residents eager to celebrate the festival of lights without exacerbating the city’s chronic air pollution issues. “While we remain committed to safeguarding public health and the environment, Diwali is a cornerstone of our heritage,” Gupta said. “By advocating for certified green alternatives, we aim to foster responsible festivities that minimize harm.” The move comes against the backdrop of stringent Supreme Court guidelines imposed in recent years to combat Delhi’s hazardous winter smog. In 2018, the court first banned all firecrackers in the National Capital Region (NCR), later permitting only “green” variants made with reduced barium nitrate and other toxic compounds. However, enforcement has varied, and a complete prohibition persists in some interpretations, prompting annual appeals from state authorities. Gupta highlighted data from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), which monitors NCR pollution levels. Last Diwali, despite restrictions, particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations spiked by over 30% in parts of Delhi, underscoring the challenge of unregulated emissions from vehicles, stubble burning, and sporadic firecracker use. The government’s proposed petition would seek a temporary lift on the ban specifically for green firecrackers, backed by endorsements from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Officials argue that these products, approved under the Explosives Rules, 2008, produce 30% less smoke and noise, aligning with national clean air initiatives. Environmental groups have expressed mixed reactions. The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) welcomed the focus on green options but urged stricter monitoring to prevent black-market influxes of banned items. “Innovation in low-emission fireworks is promising, but success hinges on public compliance and robust supply chain controls,” said a CSE spokesperson. This isn’t the first such effort. In 2023, the Delhi government similarly approached the apex court, resulting in a nuanced ruling that allowed limited sales through authorized vendors. Gupta’s administration hopes for a similar outcome, potentially effective by mid-October, ahead of Diwali on November 1. The initiative also ties into broader AAP-led efforts to revamp urban green spaces and promote electric vehicle adoption. With the AQI forecast to dip into the “poor” category soon, the timing of the petition underscores the high stakes for the festive season. As Delhi navigates its perennial pollution battle, the Supreme Court’s decision could set a precedent for other metros like Mumbai and Bengaluru, where similar restrictions apply. Stakeholders await clarity, emphasizing education campaigns to guide consumers toward sustainable choices.

उत्तर बंगाल में भूस्खलन और बाढ़ से मरने वालों की संख्या 36 पहुंची, राहत बचाव कार्य को लेकर भाजपा टीएमसी के शीर्ष नेताओं का जमावड़ा

राष्ट्रीय आपदा प्रतिक्रिया बल (एनडीआरएफ) और दार्जिलिंग व जलपाईगुड़ी जिलों के स्थानीय प्रशासन के अनुसार, मंगलवार सुबह तक पश्चिम बंगाल के उत्तरी बंगाल क्षेत्रों में मूसलाधार बारिश ने तबाही मचा दी है, भूस्खलन और अचानक आई बाढ़ ने 36 लोगों की जान ले ली है। आपदा प्रबंधन कर्मियों ने मंगलवार को भी बचाव अभियान जारी रखा क्योंकि कई लोग अब भी लापता हैं और सैंकड़ों पर्यटक पहाड़ी इलाकों में फंसे हुए हैं। मरने वालों में पांच नेपाली भी है। वीं बाढ़ के कारण कई पुल टूट गए हैं। इस भीषण बारिश और भूस्खलन के कारण बड़ी संख्या में पर्यटक बंगाल के विभिन्न इलाकों में फंसे हुए हैं। जो पर्यटक किसी तरह से लौटकर कोलकाता पहुंचे हैं, उन्होंने भयावह अनुभव साझा किए हैं। आज उत्तर बंगाल के नागराकाटा में बाढ़ की स्थिति का जायजा लेने गए भाजपा सांसद खगेन मुर्मू और विधायक शंकर घोष पर जानलेवा हमला किया गया। उनके सुरक्षा गार्ड भी गंभीर रूप से घायल हो गए। सांसद खगेन मुर्मू की हालत फिलहाल गंभीर बनी हुई है। देश के रक्षा मंत्री श्री राजनाथ सिंह ने इस दुखद घटना पर गहरी चिंता व्यक्त की है। उन्होंने प्रदेश अध्यक्ष श्री शमिक भट्टाचार्य से फ़ोन पर बात की और घटना की जानकारी ली।रक्षा मंत्री ने कहा – “राजनीति में हिंसा का कोई स्थान नहीं है। पश्चिम बंगाल की जनता इस अन्याय और उत्पीड़न को कभी स्वीकार नहीं करेगी। हम सभी को मिलकर हिंसा की इस राजनीति से लड़ना होगा। दोषियों के खिलाफ कड़ी कार्रवाई की जाएगी- राज्यपाल सी.वी. आनंद बोस ने इस घटना को बहुत दुखद बताया है, साथ ही कहा है कि दोषियों के खिलाफ कड़ी कार्रवाई की जाएगी. उन्होंने जोर दिया कि मैं सुनिश्चित करूंगा कि 24 घंटे के भीतर अपराधी पकड़े जाएं. अन्यथा कड़ी कार्रवाई की जाएगी। बीजेपी MP और MLA पर हमला: सोमवार को BJP सांसद खगेन मुर्मू और MLA शंकर घोष बाढ़ प्रभावित लोगों से मिलने पहुंचे थे, जहां पर स्थानीय लोगों ने उनपर हमला कर दिया था. हमले में बुरी तरह जख्मी BJP नेताओं को स्थानीय अस्पताल में भर्ती कराया गया है, जहां उनका इलाज चल रहा है. BJP नेताओं ने इस हमले को सत्तारूढ़ TMC की साजिश और आदिवासियों का अपमान बताया है, इसी को लेकर बीजेपी विरोध प्रदर्शन कर रही है। हमले को लेकर बीजेपी का बड़ा दावा: बीजेपी ने बताया कि बीजेपी विधायक डॉ. शंकर घोष राहत कामों का निरीक्षण कर रहे थे, तब उनके काफिले पर लोगों ने पत्थर फेंके. घोष के बाएं चेहरे की हड्डी (मैक्सिला) टूटने की वजह से उनकी बाईं आंख के नीचे का हिस्सा गंभीर रूप से प्रभावित हुआ है. हमले के बाद आई वीडियो में साफ देखा जा सकता है कि बीजेपी नेता खून से लथपथ हैं और पार्टी कार्यकर्ता उन्हें सुरक्षित स्थान पर ले जा रहे हैं।अलीपुरद्वार के जलदापारा नेशनल पार्क, दार्जिलिंग और मिरिक जैसे लोकप्रिय स्थानों से लौटने वाले कई पर्यटकों ने बताया कि कैसे पानी और टूटे रास्तों के बीच उन्हें अपनी जान बचाने की जद्दोजहद करनी पड़ी। खासतौर पर मिरिक क्षेत्र को इस बार की बारिश ने सबसे अधिक प्रभावित किया है। पर्यटन व्यवसाय से जुड़े लोगों ने बताया कि उत्तर बंगाल में लगभग 1,200 होमस्टे हैं, जो पहाड़ी और दूरदराज के इलाकों में स्थित हैं। वहां तक पहुंचने या संपर्क करने में बड़ी मुश्किलें आ रही हैं, क्योंकि संचार व्यवस्था ठप है और कई सड़कों का संपर्क टूट चुका है। इंडियन एसोसिएशन ऑफ टूर ऑपरेटर्स (IATO) की पश्चिम बंगाल इकाई के चेयरमैन देबजीत दत्ता ने कहा कि इन होमस्टे में ठहरे सैलानियों की जानकारी मिलना मुश्किल हो गया है। हम लगातार कोशिश कर रहे हैं कि पर्यटकों को सुरक्षित निकाला जा सके। 250 लोगों के लिए सिलीगुड़ी में ठहरने की व्यवस्था: वहीं मुख्यमंत्री ममता बनर्जी ने कहा कि अब तक कई पर्यटकों को सुरक्षित निकाला जा चुका है। डायमंड हार्बर के एक व्यक्ति के लापता होने की सूचना है। 500 पर्यटकों को आज 45 वोल्वो और नॉर्थ बंगाल स्टेट ट्रांसपोर्ट बसों के जरिए निकाला जा रहा है। 250 लोगों के लिए सिलीगुड़ी में ठहरने की व्यवस्था की गई है। ममता ने यह भी निर्देश दिए हैं कि जब तक फंसे हुए सैलानी सुरक्षित नहीं पहुंच जाते, तब तक होटल उनसे कोई शुल्क न लें। राज्य सरकार उनके रहने और खाने का खर्च उठाएगी। मुख्यमंत्री ने आश्वस्त किया कि सभी पर्यटक सुरक्षित हैं और सरकार हरसंभव मदद कर रही है।बंगाल बाढ़ पर ममता बनर्जी का केंद्र पर हमला: बंगाल में आई भयानक बाढ़ के बाद मुख्यमंत्री ममता बनर्जी ने केंद्र सरकार पर कड़ा हमला बोला है। उन्होंने आरोप लगाया कि बीजेपी शासित केंद्र ने अब तक राज्य सरकार से संपर्क नहीं किया है, न ही किसी प्रकार की आर्थिक सहायता भेजी है। मुख्यमंत्री ने कहा कि केंद्र की उदासीनता और नदियों की सफाई न करने की लापरवाही के कारण ही उत्तर बंगाल में इस बार की बाढ़ इतनी विकराल रूप ले पाई है। मुख्यमंत्री ने आरोप लगाया कि यदि केंद्र ने नदियों की गाद साफ करने (ड्रेजिंग) का काम समय पर किया होता और दामोदर वैली कॉर्पोरेशन (DVC) ने अपनी जिम्मेदारी निभाई होती, तो स्थिति इतनी भयावह नहीं होती।भूस्खलन से दार्जिलिंग के पास जलपाईगुड़ी जिला भी बुरी तरह से प्रभावित हुआ। बालासोन नदी पर बना दूधिया पुल भी टूट गया जिससे सिलीगुड़ी और मिरिक का सम्पर्क भी टूट गया। पश्चिम बंगाल सरकार ने तुरंत राहत और बचाव कार्य शुरू किए। इसी बीच भूटान ने वांगचू नदी में जलस्तर की वृद्धि के कारण उत्तरी बंगाल में बाढ़ की चेतावनी दे दी है। उत्तराखंड और हिमाचल की प्राकृतिक आपदाओं के बाद हिमालय के पर्वतीय क्षेत्र दार्जिलिंग में भूस्खलन यद्यपि एक सामान्य प्राकृतिक घटना है लेकिन यह आपदा हमें सतर्क कर रही है कि लोकप्रिय हिल स्टेशन में सब कुछ ठीक नहीं है। वैसे तो अपनी खूबसूरती और स्वास्थ्यवर्धक जलवायु के लिए मशहूर दार्जिलिंग अतीत में कई प्राकृतिक आपदाओं का शिकार रहा है। उपलब्ध रिकॉर्ड बताते हैं कि 1899, 1934, 1950, 1968, 1975, 1980, 1991 और हाल ही में 2011 और 2015 में बड़े पैमाने पर भूस्खलन हुए थे। 1968 में अक्तूबर में ही विनाशकारी बाढ़ आई थी, जिसमें एक हज़ार से ज़्यादा लोग मारे गए थे। गैर-लाभकारी संस्था सेंटर फॉर साइंस एंड एनवायरनमेंट द्वारा प्रकाशित पर्यावरण स्थिति रिपोर्ट, 1991 में कहा गया है कि 1902-1978 के दौरान तीस्ता घाटी में बादल फटने की नौ घटनाएं हुईं। देशभर में आपदा की व्यापकता ने पर्यावरणविदों और शोधकर्ताओं को चिन्ता में डाल दिया है। पहाड़ों का अध्ययन करने वाले शोधकर्ताओं का कहना है कि हिमालय अभी भी बढ़ रहा है और अपनी प्रकृति में युवा है। यदि इसकी उचित देखभाल नहीं की गई तो दार्जिलिंग में उत्तराखंड और हिमाचल जैसी प्रलय आ सकती है। जनसंख्या में लगातार बढ़ौतरी, पर्यटकों की लगातार बढ़ती संख्या, दार्जिलिंग और आसपास के क्षेत्रों यहां तक कि सिक्किम की नाजुक परिस्थितिकी तंत्र पर दबाव डाल रही है। पूर्वी हिमालय के समग्र पर्यावरणीय क्षरण से पहाड़ नंगे और बदसूरत हो चुके हैं। लगातार वनों की कटाई से मिट्टी के कटाव की समस्या बढ़ गई है। झरनों के सूखने और पानी के स्तर में बदलाव से भी समस्या बढ़ गई है। जिस तरह से इमारतों का प्रसार हुआ है और पहाड़ी क्षेत्रों में बहुमंजिला इमारतें बनती जा रही हैं जिनमें उचित जल निकासी की व्यवस्था भी नहीं है। पहाड़ क्षेत्र भी भीड़भाड़ वाले होते जा रहे हैं। पुराना आकर्षण खत्म हो गया है। पर्यटकों को ले जाने वाले वाहनों की संख्या बढ़ने से प्रदूषण बढ़ चुका है। भारतीय अंतरिक्ष अनुसंधान संगठन (इसरो) द्वारा प्रकाशित भारत के भूस्खलन एटलस 2023 में, दार्जिलिंग को 147 जिलों में सबसे अधिक प्रभावित क्षेत्र के रूप में 35वें स्थान पर रखा गया था। कलिम्पोंग के कर्नल प्रफुल राव के नेतृत्व वाले सेव द हिल्स सहित कई स्थानीय गैर सरकारी संगठन सोशल मीडिया पर तथा ठोस बहसों और जागरूकता अभियानों के माध्यम से इन खतरों को उजागर कर रहे हैं। सिक्किम में अक्तूबर 2023 में ल्होनक झील के टूटने से उत्पन्न होने वाली ग्लेशियल झील विस्फोट बाढ़ (जीएलओएफ) के बारे में सिक्किम मानव विकास रिपोर्ट 2001 में बहुत जोरदार चेतावनी दी गई थी। इस जीएलओएफ ने न केवल कई लोगों की जान ले ली, बल्कि 1200 मेगावाट की चुंगथांग जल विद्युत परियोजना को बहा ले गया, कई सार्वजनिक और सैन्य प्रतिष्ठानों को नष्ट कर दिया और अनुमानित 25,000 करोड़ रुपये से अधिक की क्षति हुई जो 2022-23 के सिक्किम के सकल घरेलू उत्पाद का लगभग 60 प्रतिशत है। पश्चिम बंगाल के दार्जिलिंग और जलपाईगुड़ी जिलों के निचले तटवर्ती क्षेत्रों तथा बंगलादेश में इसके कारण हुई भारी तबाही का अभी तक कोई हिसाब नहीं है। भारी वर्षा के साथ लम्बी अवधि के दौरान जल भराव बढ़ जाता है जिससे संवेदनशील ढलानों पर भूस्खलन का खतरा बढ़ता है। ग्रामीण और ऊंची पहाडि़यों में लोग ईंधन के रूप में लकड़ी का इस्तेमाल करते हैं। इसलिए पेड़ों की अवैध कटाई लगातार जारी है। ब्रिटिश काल में भवन निर्माण मानदंडों और दिशा-निर्देश पूरी तरह से त्याग दिए गए। पहाड़ों को बचाने के लिए कोई कारगर योजना लागू ही नहीं की गई। तत्कालिक आर्थिक लाभ और तीव्र विकास ने पर्यावरण को संकट में डाल दिया है। प्राकृति मनुष्य के हाथों वर्षों से चली रही खामोश बदनामी और निरंतर अनादर का बदला लेने के लिए पलटवार करती दिखाई दे रही है। जितना मानव ने प्रकृति को नुक्सान पहुंचाया है उतना किसी ने नहीं पहुंचाया है। सरकारों को चाहिए कि कारणों की पहचान कर उनके निवारण के निष्कर्षों से पता चलता है कि न तो भूस्खलन को रोकना संभव है न ही इसके नुक्सान को पूरी तरह से समाप्त करना लेकिन कुछ बुनियादी उपायों और सार्वजनिक जागरूकता के साथ काम किया जाए तो नुक्सान की संभावना को सीमित किया जा सकता है।

Explained: The disaster in Darjeeling

The Queen of Hills has once again been battered and devastated by heavy rain, which took several human lives and caused massive destruction. The rain that started on the night of October 3 exceeded the ‘exceptionally heavy rainfall’ warning by the Indian Meteorology Department issued just 12 hours before. This concentrated downpour of six hours destroyed the Dudhia bridge over Balason river which links Siliguri to the tourist town Mirik, and disrupted all the national and state highways. Long history, rapid change Darjeeling, known for its beauty and salubrious climate, has been a victim of several natural disasters in the past. Available records show that massive landslides occurred in 1899, 1934, 1950, 1968, 1975, 1980, 1991 and more recently in 2011 and 2015. The year 1968 saw devastating floods, also in October, killing over a thousand people. The State of Environment Report, 1991, published by the non-profit Centre for Science and Environment, stated that during 1902-1978, there were nine cloud burst occurrences in the Teesta Valley. Landslides in these hills have been vividly captured by public intellectuals and professionals in their memories. The 1950 landslides were captured by Leila Seth, former Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh, in her book On Balance (2003). Seth once lived in the Railway Estate in Craigmont Hills in Darjeeling. She writes, “…at 7.30 they heard an enormous, ear bursting, crumbling sound and rushed out. Before their very eyes, the whole building, with all their loved possessions inside, had caved in like a house of cards.”

Delhi’s gamble to breathe easier

Delhi’s promise of artificial rain raises both hope and scepticism among scientists and observers. “It’s not yet clear whether this will have any real impact on Delhi’s air quality during the winter months,” said Anumita Roychowdhury, executive director, research and advocacy at the Centre for Science and Environment. “At that time of year, the weather conditions are such that pollutants get trapped close to the ground, making it extremely difficult for them to disperse.

CPCB Report: ओजोन प्रदूषण से दिल्ली-एनसीआर और मुंबई सर्वाधिक प्रभावित, NGT चिंतित... त्वरित कार्रवाई की मांग

केंद्रीय प्रदूषण नियंत्रण बोर्ड (सीपीसीबी) की ताजा रिपोर्ट ने दिल्ली-एनसीआर और मुंबई में ग्राउंड-लेवल ओजोन प्रदूषण के खतरनाक स्तर को उजागर किया है। राष्ट्रीय हरित अधिकरण (एनजीटी) ने इस पर गहरी चिंता जताते हुए त्वरित कार्रवाई की मांग की है। सीपीसीबी की रिपोर्ट के अनुसार, दिल्ली-एनसीआर के 57 में से 25 निगरानी स्टेशनों पर आठ घंटे की सीमा से अधिक समय तक ओजोन प्रदूषण रहा, जबकि मुंबई के 45 में से 22 स्टेशनों पर भी यही स्थिति देखी गई। रिपोर्ट में बताया गया कि वाहनों, बिजलीघरों और औद्योगिक इकाइयों से निकलने वाले नाइट्रोजन ऑक्साइड (एनओएक्स), वाष्पशील कार्बनिक यौगिक (वीओसी) और कार्बन मोनोऑक्साइड (सीओ) सूरज की रोशनी में रासायनिक प्रतिक्रिया से ओजोन बनाते हैं। यह गैस सांस की बीमारियों, विशेष रूप से अस्थमा और दमा को बढ़ावा देती है, साथ ही फसलों को नुकसान पहुंचाकर खाद्य सुरक्षा को खतरे में डालती है। यह रिपोर्ट, सेंटर फॉर साइंस एंड एनवायरनमेंट (सीएसई) की एक अध्ययन पर आधारित मीडिया रिपोर्ट से जुड़ी है। रिपोर्ट में ग्राउंड-लेवल ओजोन में खतरनाक वृद्धि बताया गया है। यह श्वसन संबंधी समस्याओं और पर्यावरणीय क्षति से जुड़ा एक शक्तिशाली प्रदूषक है। विशेषज्ञों ने चेतावनी दी है कि गर्मी और सूरज की रोशनी ओजोन निर्माण को तेज करती है, जिससे शहरी क्षेत्रों में हॉटस्पॉट बन रहे हैं। एनजीटी ने इस मुद्दे पर गंभीरता दिखाते हुए पर्यावरण मंत्रालय और सीपीसीबी से ओजोन नियंत्रण के लिए विशेषज्ञ समिति गठन का प्रस्ताव स्वीकार किया है। मामले की अगली सुनवाई 12 नवंबर को होगी। विशेषज्ञ समिति का गठन प्रस्तावित रिपोर्ट में कहा गया कि पर्यावरण, वन और जलवायु मंत्रालय व सीपीसीबी ने ओजोन और उसके कारकों को नियंत्रित करने के उपायों पर सिफारिश करने के लिए विशेषज्ञ समिति के गठन का प्रस्ताव दिया था। एक अन्य मामले में दायर रिपोर्ट में ओजोन और इसके कारणों को नियंत्रित करने के लिए एक अध्ययन करने का सुझाव दिया गया है। सुनवाई के दौरान सीपीसीबी ने इस प्रकरण से जुड़े दो आवेदनों पर एक साथ सुनवाई करने का अनुरोध किया। क्या है ओजोन प्रदूषण? ओजोन एक गैस है जो तीन ऑक्सीजन अणुओं से बनती है। ऊंचे आसमान में यह हमें सूरज की हानिकारक किरणों से बचाती है, लेकिन जमीन के पास यह प्रदूषण बन जाता है। यह सीधे किसी स्रोत से नहीं निकलता, बल्कि वाहनों, उद्योगों और बिजलीघरों से निकलने वाली नाइट्रोजन ऑक्साइड (एनओएक्स), वाष्पशील कार्बनिक यौगिक (वीओसी) और कार्बन मोनोआक्साइड (सीओ) के सूरज की रोशनी में रासायनिक प्रतिक्रिया से बनता है। यह गैस बहुत प्रतिक्रियाशील होती है और हवा में लंबी दूरी तक फैल सकती है।

Blue for pollution? Why CPCB’s new Waste-to-Energy category raises environmental red flags

In January 2025, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reclassified Waste-to-Energy (WTE) plants under a newly introduced ‘blue’ category of industries. This change, framed as part of “essential environmental services,” signals a significant policy shift, one that many experts fear could normalise a polluting technology under the garb of progressive waste management. At first glance, the revised classification system seems technical and benign. But behind the bureaucratic language lies a fundamental question: how can an industry once categorised as ‘red’, the most hazardous tier, suddenly become ‘blue’, a category reserved for supposedly cleaner, essential services? What does the classification system say? India’s system of classifying industries dates back to 1989, when categories were first used to regulate polluting industries in Uttarakhand’s Doon Valley. The Ministry of Environment and Forests introduced the classification system, and in 2016, the CPCB developed the Pollution Index to categorise industries. This helped SPCBs and PCCs streamline consent management, prioritise regulatory oversight and monitoring, and make decisions on the location of units. Over the decades, this system expanded nationwide, helping regulators decide which industries need stricter monitoring and consents to operate. However, the latest update from CPCB introduces sharper criteria through the Pollution Index (PI), a scoring system based on three groups of pollutants: water, air, and waste. Each group is scored out of 100 depending on pollution potential. Based on the score, sectors are slotted into categories: Red Category: PI ≥ 80 (highest pollution potential) Orange Category: 55 ≤ PI < 80 Green Category: 25 ≤ PI < 55 White Category: PI < 25 (least pollution potential) Using this framework, CPCB has listed 419 sectors/sub-sectors: Red: 125 Orange: 137 Green: 94 White: 54. The ‘blue’ category: Essential or exempt? However, the most significant change is the introduction of a fifth category, ‘blue’. The CPCB does not assign a Pollution Index (PI) score to industries in this category. Instead, these industries are expected to self-assess their scores based on established criteria. The ‘blue’ category is designed to encompass “Essential Environmental Services” (EES), which include industries that manage household waste. These include sewage treatment plants, composting units, construction and demolition waste facilities, and now, WTE plants. The rationale is that household waste is unavoidable, and facilities handling it must be treated as essential services. Blue category projects are positioned as necessary for society, not optional polluters. To incentivise them, these units even receive two extra years of consent validity compared to other industries. Moreover, CPCB has reserved the power to expand ‘blue’ at its level only; state boards (SPCBs/PCCs) cannot independently add sectors. Therefore, the inclusion of WTE systems in this category comes from the Centre. The precautionary principle The CPCB’s own document acknowledges the precautionary principle: “when human activities may lead to scientifically plausible but uncertain harm, regulators must act to avoid or minimise that harm.” In theory, this should have meant stricter scrutiny of WTE, which has a documented record of toxic emissions, ash mismanagement, and community opposition across India. Instead, critics argue, the ‘blue’ categorisation does the opposite. By grouping WTE with essential services such as sewage treatment or biomethanation, the CPCB has effectively lowered the bar for compliance. Siddharth G Singh, Programme Manager, Centre for Science and Environment says, “This is an industry with a long history of pollution, and placing it under a self-assessment framework is a serious risk, not just for communities living near the plants but for entire cities, because air pollution does not stay confined to the plant’s boundary. In such a system, trusting self-reporting alone is nearly impossible unless there are strict penalties and continuous monitoring.” Compare this to Common Biomedical Waste Treatment Facilities (CBWTFs), which also rely on incineration. But every boiler is connected to the State Pollution Control Board’s (SPCB) real-time monitoring system. “If biomedical waste incinerators are monitored in real time, why should WTE plants be any different? Their boilers must also be checked regularly at both state and central levels, with mandatory public reporting of emissions. Transparency means disclosure. If plants are monitored locally, their emissions and compliance data must be public. That’s the real precautionary principle, holding polluters accountable and not lowering the bar for them,” Siddharth adds.