In a disconcerting development, two pivotal agencies operating under the aegis of the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences, namely the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) and the Decision Support System (DSS), have recently ceased the public dissemination of vital data pertaining to the origins of pollution in the capital city. This cessation of information-sharing coincides with the impending onset of Delhi’s annual peak pollution season.
This hiatus in data provision not only underscores a lack of transparency but also raises concerns among experts who emphasize the paramount importance of understanding pollution sources for formulating effective mitigation strategies and fostering public awareness.
SAFAR, for instance, traditionally furnished data on the contribution of stubble burning to Delhi’s PM2.5 levels, along with fire incident counts, until October 12. However, data sharing was abruptly terminated from October 13, leaving a void in the information ecosystem. Since 2017, SAFAR has played a pivotal role by sharing information and forecasts on farm fires, their percentage contributions to Delhi’s PM2.5 levels, and their variance based on factors such as wind direction and speed. This information, crucial during the winter season, also included insights into pollution emanating from other sources.
Similarly, the Decision Support System (DSS), responsible for assessing the contributions of both local and regional sources to Delhi’s PM2.5 levels across the 19 districts in the National Capital Region (NCR), has halted the public release of this data as of Tuesday. The DSS, launched in October 2021, typically offered data accessibility from September to mid-February. Despite initial plans to resume data sharing in September this year, it only recommenced on October 17 and was suspended again on October 24. Presently, only those with authorized login-IDs can access this invaluable data, as indicated by the official website.
Both SAFAR and DSS are integral components of the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) located in Pune, which falls under the purview of the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences. Regrettably, despite persistent attempts, no response has been forthcoming from IITM officials regarding this suspension of data sharing.
Prominent figures in environmental research and advocacy have stressed the criticality of real-time source apportionment data for shaping science-based air quality management systems. These systems play an indispensable role in making informed decisions regarding source-specific air pollution mitigation strategies, a matter of increasing urgency in the pursuit of national ambient air quality standards.
Furthermore, source apportionment data stands as a linchpin for researchers, policymakers, and the general public in their shared endeavor to combat air pollution. By elucidating the diversity of pollution sources, it equips the media, researchers, and advocacy groups with insights into both local and external contributors to Delhi’s pollution levels, thereby enhancing their ability to pinpoint the precise geographic origins and source sectors responsible.
The decision to remove such data from the public domain has elicited criticism, as it seemingly reflects a regressive policy stance and a lack of earnestness in addressing the pervasive pollution crisis.
This development has come to light after recent revelations that the real-time source apportionment study conducted by IIT-Kanpur has been on hold since October 18. Allegations of objection raised by Delhi Pollution Control Committee chairperson Ashwani Kumar, withholding funds and expressing concerns about the study’s findings have cast a cloud over the study’s integrity. The dispute centered on the representation of pollution impacts on Delhi from areas beyond its borders, in contrast to Delhi’s own localized pollution sources, human activities, and vehicular density. These discrepancies have complicated the ongoing efforts to attribute responsibility for Delhi’s pollution issues.
In sum, the suspension of vital data-sharing by SAFAR and DSS exacerbates concerns about a lack of transparency and cooperation in addressing Delhi’s burgeoning air pollution crisis. As the nation grapples with deteriorating air quality, the need for actionable, science-based solutions remains paramount.
