Minimise use of pvt vehicles, report those violating pollution norms: Experts

As spike in air pollution levels left Delhiites breathless, experts have asked people to report violators of pollution norms to authorities and said each citizen can make a difference by minimising use private vehicles.

Doctors here have also expressed concern over the rise in number of patients suffering from respiratory problems.

Delhi's air quality deteriorated sharply on Monday to fall in the severe category for the second time within a week due to a change in wind direction and rampant stubble burning in neighbouring states, authorities said.

"The public can play a critical role in making the ground level situation more transparent. But, we also need to be responsible by reducing our carbon footprint," executive director at the Delhi-based think-tank Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), Anumita Roychowdhury, said.

This can be done by "minimising use of our vehicles, using combine trips, shared transport, cycles and public transport or walking as much as possible, as personal responsibility will also make a difference", she said.

Roychowdhury also said people's participation was absolutely critical to keep the pressure on authorities and to ensure that they are doing their job properly.

"People must also keep their eyes open and report violators of pollution norms and guidelines immediately to authorities," she said.

The CPCB has started a social media page and app where people can lodge complaints and report violation of norms.

Dipankar Saha, former additional director and head of air quality management division at the CPCB, said, people can play a big role by reducing emissions by reducing use of private vehicles, not burning garbage and not bursting firecrackers
Bajaj said, "Prenatal exposure to pollutants increases the risk of preterm delivery and low birth weight, other factors that can compound to developmental disabilities later on."