Delhi’s severe pollution takes centre stage at COP29

At COP29, Delhi’s alarming air quality was a major topic of discussion, with experts raising concerns about the health hazards posed by air pollution and urging immediate global action.

Aarti Khosla, Director of Climate Trends, pointed out that Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) had reached perilous levels, with certain areas reporting particulate pollution above 1,000 micrograms per cubic meter. “Pollution comes from many sources, including black carbon, ozone, burning fossil fuels, and farm fires. We need solutions that address all of these,” she said.

Khosla also noted that the La Niña weather pattern, characterized by low wind speeds, is exacerbating the situation by trapping pollutants in the air. “While we discuss major global issues, millions of people’s health is at risk. We must act quickly,” she emphasized.

Courtney Howard, Vice-Chair of the Global Climate and Health Alliance, shared her experience from Canada, where wildfires forced the evacuation of 70 per cent of the population in 2023. “This was costly, even for a wealthy country like ours. Poorer nations need financial assistance to cope with such disasters,” she stated.

Howard also criticized the disparity in funding for healthcare, despite substantial subsidies being given to large corporations. “We are allocating USD 1 trillion to corporations making huge profits, but claim there’s no money for healthcare. We must prioritize funding for health to ensure protection for everyone,” she urged.

Enkhun Byambadorj, Co-Founder of Breathe Mongolia, drew attention to the severe air pollution in his country. “Children in cities have 40 per cent lower lung capacity than those in rural areas. The air we breathe is a societal choice, but it’s damaging our children’s future,” he remarked.

(With inputs from PTI)