Give a reasoned account of high level of pollution in North Indian cities as compared to South Indian cities.

Geographical Factors

The Indo-Gangetic Plain, where most North Indian cities are located, is particularly vulnerable to pollution due to its geographical characteristics. This plain is a large basin surrounded by the Himalayas, which act as a barrier to air flow. This topographical feature traps pollutants, leading to their accumulation, especially during winter months.

• Topography: The Himalayas prevent the dispersion of pollutants.
• Land Use: Extensive agricultural land in the North contributes to stubble burning, a major source of particulate matter.
• River Systems: The presence of major rivers like the Ganges and Yamuna, while vital for water resources, also contribute to stagnant air conditions in certain areas.

Meteorological Factors

Climatic conditions play a crucial role in exacerbating pollution levels. North India experiences distinct seasonal variations, with calm winds and temperature inversions during winter. These conditions trap pollutants near the ground, leading to a build-up of smog.

• Winter Inversions: Cool air gets trapped under a layer of warm air, preventing vertical mixing and dispersing pollutants.
• Wind Patterns: Prevailing wind directions often carry pollutants from agricultural burning in neighboring states (Punjab, Haryana) towards Delhi and other North Indian cities.
• Monsoon Patterns: While the monsoon washes away some pollutants, it also leads to increased humidity, which can trap particulate matter.

Economic Activities and Emission Sources

The economic structure and associated emission sources differ significantly between North and South India. North India has a higher concentration of industries reliant on coal, along with a larger agricultural sector contributing to stubble burning.

• Industrial Emissions: North India has a higher concentration of coal-based industries (e.g., thermal power plants, steel plants) contributing to SO2, NOx, and particulate matter emissions.
• Vehicular Pollution: Higher vehicle density and older vehicle fleets in North Indian cities contribute significantly to air pollution.
• Agricultural Practices: Stubble burning after the harvest of paddy crops is a major source of pollution in North India, particularly in Punjab and Haryana.
• Construction Activities: Rapid urbanization and construction activities in North Indian cities generate significant dust pollution.

Policy and Governance

The implementation and effectiveness of pollution control policies also vary between the two regions. While both regions are subject to national policies, local enforcement and prioritization differ.

• Enforcement of Emission Standards: Enforcement of vehicular and industrial emission standards is often stricter in South Indian cities.
• Public Transportation: South Indian cities generally have better-developed public transportation systems, reducing reliance on private vehicles.
• Green Cover: South Indian cities generally have a higher percentage of green cover, which helps absorb pollutants.
• Awareness and Participation: Greater public awareness and participation in pollution control initiatives are observed in some South Indian cities.

Feature	North Indian Cities	South Indian Cities
Geography	Indo-Gangetic Plain (trapped air)	Coastal plains, Western Ghats (better dispersion)
Meteorology	Severe winter inversions, calm winds	More consistent wind patterns, less severe inversions
Economy	Coal-based industries, large agricultural sector (stubble burning)	Service-oriented economy, less agricultural burning
Policy Enforcement	Relatively weaker enforcement	Generally stricter enforcement