Incomplete Combustion Highlighted as Key Air Pollutant in Delhi

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reports that incomplete combustion of biomass and fossil fuels is a dominant contributor to Delhi's air pollution. Measures to curb vehicular emissions and stubble burning are being implemented. The focus includes better fuel combustion, recovery systems, and revised action plans by various states.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has reported to the National Green Tribunal that incomplete combustion of biomass and fossil fuels, particularly from traffic, is a major contributor to air pollution in Delhi.

The NGT had requested the board's input regarding air pollution, highlighting sources like biomass burning, vehicular pollution especially from outdated vehicles, and coal usage. The CPCB's report dated September 18 attributes incomplete combustion as the leading cause of oxidative potential (OP) of particulate matter (PM), which affects health.

The report further identifies ammonium chloride and organic aerosols from traffic, residential heating, and fossil fuel vapors as key PM sources. Measures taken include BS-VI compliant engines and Vapour Recovery Systems (VRS) at petrol pumps. The Ministry of Agriculture's subsidy schemes aim to curb biomass burning, and the Commission for Air Quality Management has directed co-firing of biomass with coal in power plants within 300 km of Delhi. Coal usage is banned in NCR industries to reduce PM levels.