Part of: Delhi Gk set 31

Major cause for Delhi Air Pollution is .....

Category: Delhi Gk

Hint: Consider the significant sources of particulate matter and industrial emissions.

Correct Answer: A) Road dust and industries.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, Civil Services

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

Air pollution in Delhi is a multifaceted issue with several contributing factors. The major cause of air pollution in Delhi is road dust and industrial emissions. Road dust is generated by vehicular traffic and construction activities, which are prevalent in the city. This dust contains various pollutants, including particulate matter (PM), which is a significant component of air pollution. Particulate matter can be inhaled and can cause respiratory and cardiovascular health issues.

Industrial emissions are another major source of air pollution in Delhi. Industries release a variety of pollutants into the air, including sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These pollutants can react with other substances in the atmosphere to form secondary pollutants, such as ozone and particulate matter, which further contribute to air pollution.

While other sources of air pollution, such as vehicular emissions from diesel-powered city buses, two-wheelers, and three-wheelers with two-stroke engines, do contribute to the overall air quality, they are not the primary cause. These sources are significant but are overshadowed by the substantial contributions of road dust and industrial emissions.

It is important to understand the major contributors to air pollution in Delhi to develop effective strategies for mitigating the problem. Addressing road dust and industrial emissions through measures such as improved road maintenance, dust control measures, and stricter industrial emission standards can help reduce the overall air pollution levels in the city.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. Road dust and industrial emissions are major contributors to air pollution in Delhi. Road dust is generated by vehicular traffic and construction activities, while industrial emissions release harmful pollutants into the air.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. While unclean engines in transportation do contribute to air pollution, they are not the major cause. The significant sources of particulate matter in Delhi are road dust and industrial emissions.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. Diesel-powered city buses are a source of air pollution, but they are not the major cause. Road dust and industrial emissions are more significant contributors to air pollution in Delhi.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. Two-wheelers and three-wheelers with two-stroke engines do contribute to air pollution, but they are not the major cause. Road dust and industrial emissions are more significant contributors to air pollution in Delhi.

Mnemonic: RIDE: Road dust and Industries Drive Emissions

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