By 
Delhi often grabs headlines for its severe air pollution, says Partha Basu, strategic adviser at the Environmental Defense Fund. Every year, the Delhi government enforces measures like driving restrictions and construction bans during peak pollution periods. While criticized as insufficient, such steps are rare in other parts of northern India.
Basu highlights a misconception: villages and smaller cities in northern India are perceived as clean and green, but the reality is starkly different. Pollution in the Indo-Gangetic Plain stems from multiple sources—construction, vehicular emissions, industrial pollutants, and seasonal crop-burning. Winter exacerbates the crisis, as cold, stagnant air traps pollutants, worsened by the region’s landlocked geography and lack of strong winds, explains Mahesh Palawat of Skymet.
Doctors warn of rising health risks. Dr. Rajesh Gupta from Fortis Hospital notes a surge in respiratory issues among children, the elderly, and even healthy individuals. “Patients report burning sensations in their eyes and throat,” he says. Aditi Garg, a resident of Meerut, shares how toxic air has confined her indoors with an air purifier since October.
However, millions in the unorganized sector—daily wage workers, street vendors, and laborers—cannot escape the polluted air. In Kanpur, auto parts vendor Mohammed Salim Siddiqui, the sole earner for his family, says, “Two of my family members suffer respiratory problems because of the pollution. We need help.”
India’s National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), launched in 2019, aims to reduce particulate matter by 40% by 2026 compared to 2017 levels. While it has raised awareness, experts like Basu call for stronger coordination between local and state governments. “The lack of dialogue is the biggest barrier to change,” he asserts.
For many, toxic air has become an unfortunate norm. “People discuss it when pollution peaks but forget until it returns,” says Mr. Siddiqui. The fight for clean air demands urgent and sustained action.
