Rajasthan Battles Severe Air Pollution: Mines and Industries Shut Down in Alwar and Bharatpur

In a bid to combat the escalating air pollution crisis, the Rajasthan government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal, has taken strict action in two of the state’s most affected districts. The Rajasthan Pollution Control Board has ordered the closure of 3,000 mines and industries in Alwar and Bharatpur. Additionally, all construction activities in these districts have been halted with immediate effect.

This decision was prompted by a significant decline in air quality across the National Capital Region (NCR), which includes Alwar and Bharatpur. The deteriorating air quality in these districts mirrors the alarming pollution levels in Delhi, which has been grappling with critical air pollution since the beginning of the week.

Pollution Levels Hit Dangerous Thresholds

The pollution levels in Alwar have worsened significantly, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 295 on Monday. This AQI level falls under the “poor” category, indicating the harmful effects on vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.

However, the situation is even graver in Bhiwadi, a major industrial hub within Alwar district. Here, the AQI soared to a hazardous 442, far exceeding the “severe” threshold of 401. An AQI above 400 indicates extreme pollution levels that can impact even healthy individuals and seriously affect those with respiratory or heart conditions.

These alarming figures have led the government to enforce the highest level of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP 4) in Alwar and Bharatpur districts. GRAP 4 includes stringent measures such as the suspension of industrial operations, halting of construction activities, and restrictions on the movement of heavy vehicles.

Government Orders to Combat Pollution

On Tuesday morning, the Rajasthan Pollution Control Board issued orders to implement GRAP 4 measures in these districts. This is the first time that such a severe response has been applied in the state. The government has prioritized protecting public health over economic activities in these areas.

The halt in industrial and construction activities is expected to reduce the particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) levels, which are primarily responsible for the worsening air quality. However, experts warn that such measures, while necessary, are only short-term solutions to a deeper problem.

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Impact of Stubble Burning and NCR Proximity

One of the major contributors to the declining air quality in Alwar and Bharatpur is stubble burning in neighboring states such as Punjab and Haryana. During this time of year, farmers burn crop residues to prepare their fields for the next sowing season. This practice releases large amounts of smoke and fine particles into the atmosphere, which travel across state borders and worsen pollution levels in Rajasthan.

Additionally, Alwar and Bharatpur’s proximity to Delhi and other parts of the NCR exposes them to transboundary pollution. As wind patterns carry pollutants from the capital region, these districts face the compounded effects of local and external sources of pollution.

Statewide Pollution Concerns

While Alwar and Bharatpur are the most severely affected, other parts of Rajasthan are also grappling with poor air quality. Districts such as Jhunjhunu, Bikaner, Churu, and Hanumangarh have reported AQI levels ranging from “poor” to “severe.” A thick layer of smog has enveloped these regions, reducing visibility and creating hazardous conditions for residents.

The situation is particularly dire in rural areas, where residents have limited access to healthcare facilities to treat pollution-related illnesses. Many people have reported symptoms such as eye irritation, difficulty breathing, coughing, and nasal congestion. These health issues are further exacerbated by the drop in temperatures, which traps pollutants closer to the ground.

Measures Taken by the Rajasthan Government

The Rajasthan government has acknowledged the severity of the crisis and is working on both immediate and long-term solutions. Apart from shutting down mines and industries in Alwar and Bharatpur, the state has issued advisories to residents in other affected districts. People have been urged to stay indoors as much as possible, especially during early mornings and late evenings when pollution levels are highest.

Schools in some areas have been instructed to suspend outdoor activities to protect children from exposure to polluted air. Healthcare centers have been directed to remain on high alert for a potential increase in cases of respiratory illnesses.

Challenges in Addressing the Crisis

While these measures are crucial, they highlight the challenges faced by the state in addressing the root causes of air pollution. Industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and the burning of biomass are persistent issues that require coordinated efforts between state governments and central authorities.

Moreover, the economic impact of shutting down industries and halting construction activities cannot be overlooked. These sectors are vital to the livelihoods of thousands of workers in Alwar and Bharatpur. Balancing environmental concerns with economic stability remains a significant challenge for the government.

The Role of Public Awareness

Public cooperation is also essential to combat the air pollution crisis. The government has launched awareness campaigns to educate people about the harmful effects of pollution and encourage sustainable practices. Residents are being urged to minimize the use of private vehicles, avoid burning waste, and adopt eco-friendly alternatives wherever possible.

Additionally, stricter enforcement of pollution control regulations is being prioritized. Industries found violating environmental norms are being penalized, and authorities are intensifying inspections to ensure compliance.

The Path Forward

Experts emphasize the need for long-term solutions to address Rajasthan’s air pollution crisis. These include:

1. Promoting Clean Energy: Encouraging industries to switch to cleaner fuels and adopting renewable energy sources.

2. Improved Agricultural Practices: Providing incentives for farmers to adopt eco-friendly alternatives to stubble burning, such as using crop residue for bioenergy production.

3. Strengthening Public Transport: Expanding public transport networks and encouraging their use to reduce vehicular emissions.

4. Afforestation Efforts: Increasing green cover in urban and rural areas to improve air quality and combat climate change.

5. Collaborative Policies: Working with neighboring states to address cross-border pollution and develop unified strategies to tackle air quality issues.

Conclusion

The Rajasthan government’s decisive actions in Alwar and Bharatpur highlight the urgency of addressing the state’s worsening air quality. While the measures taken under GRAP 4 are necessary to mitigate immediate risks, a sustained effort is needed to implement long-term solutions.

Residents, industries, and policymakers must work together to reduce pollution levels and ensure a healthier environment for future generations. The current crisis serves as a wake-up call for the state to prioritize environmental sustainability alongside economic development.