UPSC DAW 21st October 2025 Mains Answer Writing - 2026

UPSC DAW 21st October 2025 Mains Answer Writing - 2026

Question

The issue of air pollution in Delhi is much more severe as compared to other metropolitan cities in India. What are the factors responsible for such a situation? Also, give suggestions to overcome this problem. (150 Words, 10 Marks). 

Model Answer

Approach: Introduction: 

  • Briefly introduce the issue of severe air pollution in Delhi compared to other metropolitan cities. 

Body: 

  • Factors Responsible for Severe Air Pollution in Delhi 

  • Suggestions to Overcome the Problem 

Conclusion: 

  • Way forward. 

     Introduction: 

  • Air pollution is one of the gravest environmental challenges facing India’s metropolitan cities. While urban centres like Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru struggle with rising particulate levels, the crisis in Delhi is far more severe. As per the World Air Quality Report 2023 (IQAir), Delhi ranks among the world’s most polluted capitals, with recurrent winter smog underscoring the combined impact of geography, human activity, and weak governance.  

 Body: Factors Responsible for Delhi’s Severe Air Pollution : 

  •  Geographical & Meteorological Factors : 

  • Landlocked Location: Absence of sea breeze limits pollutant dispersion. 

  • Bowl-Shaped Topography: Acts like a basin trapping pollutants, especially in winter. 

  • Temperature Inversion: Warm air layer traps cold air and pollutants near the surface during winters. 

  • Low Wind Speed: Reduces natural ventilation and dispersion of particulate matter. 

  • Proximity to Thar Desert: Frequent dust storms add coarse particulate matter (PM10). 

 

  •  Anthropogenic (Human-Induced) Factors: 

  • Vehicular Emissions: Major source of NOx, SOx, and PM2.5; aggravated by old vehicles and traffic congestion. 

  • Industrial Emissions: NCR industrial clusters emit toxic gases and particulates. 

  • Construction Dust: Continuous urban construction adds large quantities of dust. 

  • Stubble Burning: Seasonal burning in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh worsens post-monsoon smog. 

  • Domestic Sources: Burning of wood, coal, and cow dung for cooking/heating adds household pollution. 

  • Waste Burning: Open burning of municipal solid waste releases toxic smoke and heavy metals. 

 Suggestions to Overcome Air Pollution in Delhi: A multi-pronged and coordinated approach involving technology, governance, and public participation is essential. 

  •  Clean Transport: Promote electric and public transport, enforce BS-VI norms, expand EV infrastructure, and use smart traffic systems to curb vehicular emissions. 

  • Industrial & Construction Reforms: Adopt cleaner technologies, enforce dust control, and relocate highly polluting units. 

  • Crop & Waste Management: Encourage in-situ stubble management (Pusa Decomposer, Happy Seeder) and scientific waste segregation to prevent open burning. 

  • Monitoring & Coordination: Strengthen real-time air monitoring, ensure strict GRAP implementation, and enhance inter-state cooperation through CAQM. 

  • Urban Greening & Renewable Energy: Expand green cover, promote cycling and pedestrian pathways, and adopt solar and clean energy sources. 

  • Public Awareness: Drive behavioural change and citizen participation through sustained awareness and community-led monitoring initiatives. 

  Conclusion: 

  • By adopting a comprehensive approach that involves multiple stakeholders, including the government, industries, citizens, and civil society, Delhi can effectively combat air pollution and create a healthier environment for its residents.