Living in Delhi smog is like watching a dystopian film again and again

Delhi is currently grappling with a severe smog crisis that has disrupted daily life and raised serious health concerns. The arrival of winter has brought with it a thick layer of smog that blankets the city, making the sky appear grey and dull. For those who venture outdoors, the air is laden with ash, and even a short walk can leave one feeling breathless. The situation has become so dire that many schools have closed their doors, and residents are being urged to stay indoors. However, for those whose jobs require them to work outside, staying home is not an option. The air quality index in Delhi has reached alarming levels, with readings between 1,200 and 1,500, far exceeding the acceptable limit of 100. These figures indicate the presence of harmful particulate matter, known as PM 2. 5 and PM 10, which can penetrate deep into the lungs and lead to various health issues. Social media has been flooded with expressions of shock and disappointment as people realize that this is a recurring nightmare that has plagued the city for over 15 years. Despite the hazardous conditions, some individuals continue to brave the toxic air for their daily walks. The smog has become so thick that visibility can drop to less than 2 meters, making it difficult to navigate the streets. This is not a new story; it is one that has been told repeatedly over the years. Reports have highlighted how pollution is detrimental to public health and has been linked to a decrease in life expectancy. The Supreme Court of India has consistently ordered the government to take urgent action against pollution, and this year is no exception. The impact of pollution on children has been a significant concern, as their ability to play and enjoy outdoor activities is severely restricted. Each year, politicians engage in a blame game, pointing fingers at one another instead of addressing the root causes of the problem. Various solutions have been proposed, some of which have shown minimal success, while others have failed completely. The most vulnerable populations are often the hardest hit, as many individuals do not have the luxury of staying indoors and must work in the smog. In an effort to combat the pollution, Delhi has implemented measures such as anti-smog guns that spray water mist into the air. However, the ongoing struggle against pollution feels like a never-ending cycle, akin to watching the same dystopian film year after year, with the same characters and plot unfolding without any real change. Parks that were once filled with families are now deserted, as children and the elderly are advised to remain indoors. Those who must work, including daily-wage laborers and delivery riders, are still venturing out, despite experiencing coughing fits. Hospitals are reporting an increase in patients suffering from respiratory issues, raising concerns about the long-term health effects of the smog. The pressing question remains: why does nothing seem to change? The answer lies in the complexity of addressing Delhi's air quality issues, which require significant coordination and effort from various stakeholders. One major contributor to the pollution is the practice of crop burning by farmers in neighboring states such as Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. This method of clearing fields is not only cost-effective but also quick, leading to a significant amount of smoke that drifts into Delhi during the winter months. While the government has discussed providing financial incentives and machinery to help farmers transition away from this practice, progress has been slow. Additionally, emissions from vehicles, construction activities, and industrial operations within Delhi contribute significantly to the pollution levels. Each winter, the cycle repeats itself: public outrage, media coverage, political finger-pointing, and judicial frustration, only to return to the same situation the following year. In many democracies, a public health crisis of this magnitude would incite widespread protests, yet in Delhi, the anger is largely confined to social media platforms. Activists argue that the lack of immediate consequences from pollution leads to complacency among the populace. The gradual deterioration of health caused by high levels of PM 2. 5 is often overlooked. A study conducted in 2019 revealed that pollution was responsible for over 2. 3 million premature deaths in India. Furthermore, the divide between the wealthy and the poor exacerbates the situation. Those who can afford to leave the city temporarily or invest in air purifiers do so, while the less fortunate are left to navigate the hazardous conditions. Despite the collective frustration, there has yet to be a significant movement demanding change. The Supreme Court has noted that politicians often evade responsibility, passing the blame instead of taking decisive action. Experts emphasize the need for collaboration among federal and state governments to address the pollution crisis effectively. Long-term solutions must be prioritized, and citizens should hold their leaders accountable. Courts should also issue timely orders to prevent the pollution from worsening. As we find ourselves once again in the midst of this annual crisis, temporary measures have been announced, such as halting construction work. However, the question remains: will these actions be enough to restore Delhi's once-clear skies? The evidence from previous years suggests that hope may be in short supply.