As winter approaches, Noida and the broader National Capital Region (NCR) are grappling with a severe air quality crisis, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching alarming levels. On October 27, 2024, Noida's AQI soared to 304, categorizing the air quality as 'very poor', a stark increase from a previous reading of 169. This marked the first instance this season where all cities in the NCR reported 'very poor' air quality [889ffd6f].
Officials from the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board, including DK Gupta, have pointed to pollution from neighboring Pakistan, particularly stubble burning, as a significant contributor to the deteriorating air quality. Stagnant winds have further trapped pollutants in the atmosphere, exacerbating the situation across the region [889ffd6f].
In a broader context, air pollution in India has severe economic implications. A recent report indicates that air pollution costs India approximately $95 billion annually, which is about 3% of the country's GDP. The economic burden is compounded by health-related issues, which reduce consumer spending by an estimated $22 billion. Furthermore, a 2019 study revealed that pollution was responsible for 3.8 billion lost working days, contributing to 18% of deaths in India [6414409c].
The noxious smog particularly affects New Delhi, which ranks among the world's most polluted cities. The smog results from a combination of vehicle and factory emissions, alongside farm fires, leading to significant health impacts and economic costs for millions of residents. Delhi alone loses up to 6% of its GDP annually due to air pollution, which averages 275 unhealthy air days per year [40a76d47].
While Delhi has seen a slight improvement in its AQI, now at 264, it still remains in the 'very poor' category. The festive season of Diwali, known for increased firecracker usage, poses additional risks for air quality deterioration [889ffd6f]. The World Bank estimates that India's GDP could be 4.5% higher if pollution levels were reduced, highlighting the urgent need for effective government initiatives to combat air pollution, which have faced criticism for their ineffectiveness [6414409c].
Emergency measures, such as school closures, further disrupt economic schedules, adding to the financial strain on families and businesses [40a76d47]. As authorities and residents navigate this ongoing crisis, the health risks associated with poor air quality remain a pressing concern. Residents are advised to take precautions, including wearing masks and limiting outdoor activities, as the winter months bring heightened pollution levels [661e889]. This situation underscores the critical intersection of environmental health and economic stability in India, particularly as the median age in the country is expected to rise to 32 by 2030, increasing susceptibility to pollution-related health issues [6414409c].