Air pollution, not just an environmental issue, it has far-reaching consequences for public health and the economy. Punjab, the backbone of Indian agriculture, often referred to as the “Granary of India” is facing critical environmental challenges with degradation of air quality. The Air Quality Index (AQI), a key indicator of state’s air quality has been an alarming concern. This blog explores the factors impacting the Punjab’s AQI, its consequences and the steps needed to address this environmental issue. The Air Quality Index (AQI) measures the air pollution level, including the pollutants like particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulphur dioxide (SO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), and ozone (O₂). The AQI ranges from 0 to 500, with higher AQI indicated worse air quality.
Why is Punjab’s AQI Deteriorating?
Stubble Burning: Stubble burning is one of the main contributors to Punjab’s poor air quality. Due to lack of cost-efficient methods, the crop residue is burned, especially in the post-harvesting period that releases great amount of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) in the air, causing air pollution.
Industrial Emissions: Punjab is a hub to various industries including textiles, manufacturing, chemicals that contributes to increased levels of NO2, SO2 and other pollutants. Ludhiana and Mandi Gobindgarh are prominent hotspots of industrial pollution.
Vehicular Emissions: The rise in urbanization has led to an increase in the density of vehicles in cities like Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Patiala. Older vehicles and poor traffic management worsening the emissions, further leading to air quality degradation.
Construction: The growth of urbanization and industrialization have led to the deterioration of air quality, particularly in areas with ongoing construction activities.
Current State of AQI
The current state of Air Quality Index in Punjab is between the moderate to unhealthy range that means the air pollution level in Punjab is elevated, posing potential health risks for the society. However, within Punjab, the AQI fluctuates across regions. As per the recent data (Project, 2024), the overall AQI is under the moderate level that can cause health hazards to the community. The PM2.5 AQI is 83, representing moderate level of fine particulate matter. This is a matter of concern as PM2.5 can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause respiratory issues. Additionally, PM10, the large particulate matter AQI is 50 can cause severe damage to respiratory system. Further, additional pollutants like ozone (O3), Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), Sulphur dioxide (SO2) and Carbon monoxide (CO) are low currently that is considered in the ‘Good’ range.
Therefore, it is observed that since the overall AQI is in the Moderate range, the increased levels of PM2.5 and PM10 are a matter of concern for human health and environment. People with respiratory problems should take precautions to limit their exposure to polluted air. Thus, it is highly crucial to monitor the quality of air we breathe. A Moderate AQI generally indicates that the quality of air is toxic to some extent and pose health concerns for young as well as older generation. Frequent exposure to elevated level of pollution increases the risk of heart attack, deteriorate lungs problem and other cardiovascular diseases. Poor air quality can affect an individual’s ability to work, causing a decline in productivity and economic loss. It can adversely impact the quality of life, leading to lower life expectancy and rising morbidity.
Also, rising AQI in Punjab can lead to economic losses due to fall in visitors, impacting tourism industry and allied activities. Air pollution can harm agricultural productivity by affecting crop yield and further the life of farmers and the economy, in general. Air pollution can also impact property deals as property situated in the polluted areas are of least interest to the investors. To address the issues of air pollution and Punjab’s elevated AQI, a multi-dimensional approach is needed.
What Can Be Done?
Stringent Policies: Implementing stringent environmental regulations for controlling stubble burning, encouraging the adoption of sustainable farming practices. Subsidies and incentives should be given to promote the use of bio-fertilizers and decomposers. Stricter standards for emissions from industries and vehicles can help reduce air pollution.
Public Awareness: The public and most importantly, the farmers should be made aware about the health and environmental consequences of increasing AQI. Workshops and campaigns should be organized to encourage green activities. Incorporating environmental studies into school curriculum can raise awareness among young people. Raising public awareness about the harmful effects of toxic air can encourage individuals to take steps to mitigate carbon emissions.
Adoption of clean energy: The use of electric vehicles should be encouraged by promoting subsidies on EV purchases, phasing out fossil fuels based public transportation. Also, promoting the use of renewable energy sources like wind, solar, bioenergy in factories and even in households. Creating green buffer zones around industrial and high traffic areas. Encouraging the use of renewable energy sources can reduce reliance on fossil fuels, improving the quality of air.
Tree Plantation Drives: Trees should be planted in urban areas and along the highways to act as natural air purifiers. Planting trees is one of the most effective ways to combat air pollution. By absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, trees help improve air quality and promote healthier environment.
In conclusion, there should be regular checks on the AQI levels, limited outdoor activities should be supported during elevated levels of pollutants in the air, masks should be worn at polluted places. Also, economists and policymakers should aim at framing policies by promoting clean and green transportation, government should impose penalties for improving industrial emissions and implement sustainable practices. Collaborations with international organizations can help in transfer of efficient practices, financial incentives, and eco-technologies for pollution control. By understanding the risks associated with the particulate matter and toxic air pollutants, government as well the community should aim at protecting oneself and the environment from the harmful effects and consequences of air pollution. By taking collective action and combining these remedial measures, we can significantly reduce air pollution and aim towards sustainable and healthier future for Punjab, improving the overall quality of life for residents.