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    Record Surge in Greenhouse Gas Concentrations Raises Alarms Amid Climate Crisis

    OWSA Contributor
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    Record Surge in Greenhouse Gas Concentrations Raises Alarms Amid Climate Crisis

    The UN has called for urgent global cooperation to tackle the escalating climate crisis. The UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that the world is “in a race against time” and that immediate action is essential to curb emissions and enhance climate resilience.

    The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has announced alarming new data indicating that atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases have reached unprecedented levels in 2023. This surge underscores the urgent need for effective climate action as global temperatures continue to rise and extreme weather events become increasingly common.

    According to the WMO’s latest Greenhouse Gas Bulletin, concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) hit record highs this year. Specifically, CO2 levels soared to 418.6 parts per million (ppm), a significant increase from the previous year’s average of 416.2 ppm. Methane levels also rose dramatically, reaching an average of 1,895 parts per billion (ppb), while nitrous oxide concentrations climbed to 336.5 ppb.

    The rise in greenhouse gases is largely attributed to human activities, including fossil fuel combustion, deforestation, and agricultural practices. The WMO highlighted that despite the global commitment to reducing emissions under the Paris Agreement, these targets have not been met. The failure to curtail emissions effectively is driving the planet toward a climate tipping point, with serious implications for both ecosystems and human societies.

    “Greenhouse gas concentrations continue to rise to unprecedented levels, indicating a dangerous trajectory that threatens our future,” warned WMO Secretary-General Petteri Taalas. He emphasized that immediate and sustained action is critical to avoid the most catastrophic impacts of climate change.

    In addition to the rise in greenhouse gases, the WMO reported that global temperatures are on track to exceed the 1.5-degree Celsius threshold set by the Paris Agreement. The latest climate models suggest that, without significant reductions in emissions, the world could see an increase of 2.5 to 3 degrees Celsius by the end of the century. This scenario would result in dire consequences, including more frequent and intense heatwaves, droughts, floods, and loss of biodiversity.

    Race Against Time

    The UN has echoed these concerns, calling for urgent global cooperation to tackle the escalating climate crisis. The UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that the world is “in a race against time” and that immediate action is essential to curb emissions and enhance climate resilience. During recent discussions at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28), leaders from various nations emphasized the need for an urgent transition to renewable energy and sustainable practices to meet climate goals.

    Experts have pointed out that while technological advancements and policy measures are crucial, individual actions and behavioural changes also play a significant role in addressing climate change. Community engagement and education about sustainable practices can amplify efforts to reduce carbon footprints at the grassroots level.

    As the world grapples with these stark realities, the importance of international collaboration cannot be overstated. Countries are being urged to fulfil their climate commitments and invest in green technologies that can facilitate a more sustainable future. The WMO’s findings serve as a crucial reminder that time is running out to avert the worst impacts of climate change.

    Wildfires’ Key Role

    Senior scientific officer at WMO, Oksana Tarasova, described last year’s wildfires in Canada as “absolutely dramatic” in terms of the amount of greenhouse gases produced. Today’s CO2 levels have not been seen “in the history of humanity”, she said. “The last time we see 400 parts per million of CO2 was three to five million years ago, and during that time, the temperature was three to four degrees warmer” and sea levels 10 to 20 metres higher.

    The WMO report pointed out that from 1990 to 2023, radiative forcing – the warming effect on our climate from greenhouse gases increased by 51.5 per cent. CO2 accounted for more than 80 per cent of this increase, according to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Annual Greenhouse Gas Index.

    “As long as emissions continue, greenhouse gases will continue accumulating in the atmosphere leading to global temperature rise,” the UN agency said. “Given the extremely long life of CO2  in the atmosphere, the temperature level already observed will persist for several decades even if emissions are rapidly reduced to net zero.”

    Asked about whether the UN climate conference might be expected to yield tangible commitments from countries, the WMO Deputy Secretary-General noted that politicians worldwide do reference the latest scientific climate findings and forecasts in their public declarations. “So I do think they are listening, the question is to what degree will we see that manifest at COP29 in action,” she said.

    WMO Deputy Secretary-General Ko Barrett noted that measures taken at a national level to transition to a “lower fossil fuel economy” were massively important to safeguard future generations.

    “Even though there is a lag and temperatures will rise, we are not to be dissuaded from action,” she said, “because there will be a transformation and a downward trend in temperature in future. It all just depends on how quickly we take action and how fast we can reduce those temperatures.”

    India Slips to 79th in World Justice Project’s Rule of Law Index 2023: A Call for Reform

    OWSA Staff
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    India Slips to 79th in World Justice Project’s Rule of Law Index 2023: A Call for Reform

    Experts have pointed out that these challenges are not new but have been exacerbated in recent years due to various factors, including political pressures and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the judicial system.

    India has been ranked 79th out of 140 countries in the World Justice Project (WJP) Rule of Law Index 2023, marking a concerning decline from previous years. This latest report sheds light on the significant challenges facing the country’s legal and governance systems, raising alarms about the implications for democracy and social justice in one of the world’s largest democracies.

    The WJP’s Rule of Law Index evaluates countries based on eight key dimensions, including constraints on government powers, the absence of corruption, civil justice, and criminal justice. India’s position reflects a broader trend of declining performance in several critical areas, particularly in the realms of accountability and the efficacy of legal institutions.

    One of the primary reasons for India’s drop in the rankings is the perceived increase in corruption within various levels of government. According to the report, citizens have expressed growing dissatisfaction with the integrity of public officials and the judiciary, which undermines public trust in these vital institutions. The perception of rampant corruption not only affects the functioning of the government but also impedes the fair administration of justice, making it increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens to seek redress.

    The report highlights that the criminal justice system in India is facing significant challenges. Issues such as prolonged trial durations, inadequate legal representation for the poor, and overcrowded prisons contribute to a perception that justice is often delayed, if not denied. The WJP emphasizes that access to effective legal remedies is crucial for a functioning democracy, and India’s struggles in this regard pose risks to the rule of law.

    Challenges Exacerbated

    Additionally, the civil justice system has not fared much better. The report notes that many citizens find the process of resolving civil disputes to be prohibitively complex and expensive, which further deters them from seeking justice. This situation is particularly alarming for marginalized communities, who may lack the resources to navigate a convoluted legal landscape.

    Experts have pointed out that these challenges are not new but have been exacerbated in recent years due to various factors, including political pressures and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the judicial system. The pandemic has led to delays in court proceedings and has put additional strain on an already overburdened legal infrastructure.

    Despite these challenges, there is a growing recognition among stakeholders of the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to address the shortcomings in India’s legal system. Civil society organizations, legal experts, and policymakers are calling for a multi-faceted approach that includes strengthening judicial independence, enhancing the transparency of legal processes, and ensuring accountability at all levels of government.

    Moreover, the WJP report serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of civil liberties and human rights in upholding the rule of law. Protecting these rights is fundamental not just for the legal system, but for the health of democracy itself. The report calls for renewed efforts to safeguard these rights, particularly in an era where concerns about authoritarianism and governmental overreach are increasingly prevalent.

    The findings of the WJP Rule of Law Index 2023 also resonate with the broader context of global challenges to the rule of law. Many countries are grappling with similar issues of governance and corruption, but India’s unique position as the world’s largest democracy places it under particular scrutiny. The implications of a declining rule of law are profound, affecting everything from economic development to social stability.

    Indian High Commission in Colombo Facilitates Solar Rooftop Systems at Religious Sites

    OWSA Contributor
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    Indian High Commission in Colombo Facilitates Solar Rooftop Systems at Religious Sites

    The project reflects a broader commitment from the Indian government to assist Sri Lanka in its development goals. Over the years, India has engaged in various collaborative projects, particularly in the fields of renewable energy, infrastructure, and community development.

    The Indian High Commission has made a significant contribution to the promotion of renewable energy in Sri Lanka by handing over solar rooftop systems to several religious sites in the country. This initiative, which took place recently, underscores India’s commitment to supporting sustainable energy solutions and enhancing bilateral ties through cooperative efforts in environmental sustainability.

    The solar rooftop systems were formally handed over to representatives of various temples and places of worship, highlighting the importance of renewable energy in achieving a sustainable future. This initiative is part of a larger program aimed at promoting solar energy across Sri Lanka, with a particular focus on enhancing the energy efficiency of community spaces.

    During the handover ceremony, Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Gopal Baglay, emphasized the dual purpose of this initiative. “Not only do these solar systems provide clean energy, but they also symbolize the shared commitment of India and Sri Lanka to environmental sustainability,” he stated. The High Commissioner noted that solar energy is crucial for reducing carbon footprints and combating climate change, aligning with both countries’ commitments to sustainable development.

    The solar rooftop systems have been installed at key religious sites, including temples and other community centers, allowing them to harness solar energy for their daily operations. This move is expected to significantly lower energy costs and promote energy independence for these institutions, which often rely on traditional energy sources.

    The initiative is particularly timely, as Sri Lanka faces ongoing challenges with energy supply and rising costs. By transitioning to solar power, these religious sites can set an example for other institutions and communities to follow, demonstrating the benefits of renewable energy solutions. The High Commissioner urged other sectors to explore similar initiatives, reinforcing the notion that sustainable energy is not only viable but necessary.

    Broader Commitment

    The project reflects a broader commitment from the Indian government to assist Sri Lanka in its development goals. Over the years, India has engaged in various collaborative projects, particularly in the fields of renewable energy, infrastructure, and community development. This handover of solar systems is a continuation of those efforts, with a particular focus on sustainable practices that benefit local communities.

    The Indian High Commission has expressed its hope that this initiative will inspire further investments in renewable energy, both from government bodies and private sectors in Sri Lanka. The successful implementation of solar projects in religious spaces can serve as a model for other organizations and institutions, promoting a shift towards greener energy solutions.

    As Sri Lanka continues to explore and expand its renewable energy capabilities, this collaboration with India stands as a testament to the potential for positive change through international partnerships. The solar rooftop systems at religious sites not only represent a step forward in energy efficiency but also serve to strengthen the cultural and spiritual ties between the two nations. The installation of solar rooftop systems at religious sites is a significant milestone in promoting renewable energy in Sri Lanka.

    A spokesperson of the Indian High Commission said that it exemplifies the power of collaboration in addressing global energy challenges while fostering sustainable development and community engagement and is a step towards a greener and more sustainable future.

    Bangladesh Government to Issue Open Tender for Ten Solar Power Plants Next Week

    OWSA Contributor
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    Bangladesh Government to Issue Open Tender for Ten Solar Power Plants Next Week

    Officials from the ministry emphasized that the government is committed to transitioning to renewable energy sources, with a target of generating 40 per cent of the nation’s total electricity from renewable sources by 2041.

    The Bangladesh government is poised to take a major step toward sustainable energy by launching an open tender next week for the establishment of ten solar power plants across the country. This initiative is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance renewable energy production and reduce dependency on fossil fuels.

    The ministry of power, energy, and mineral resources made the announcement, highlighting the significance of this move in addressing both the increasing energy demands and the pressing challenges posed by climate change. By investing in solar energy, the government aims to diversify the nation’s energy portfolio and promote environmentally friendly power generation.

    The planned solar power plants are expected to be set up in various locations throughout the country, strategically selected to optimize efficiency and energy output. This tender is designed to attract a wide range of participants, including local and international bidders, encouraging investment and expertise from diverse sectors.

    In addition to bolstering energy production, this initiative is projected to have substantial economic benefits. The construction and operation of the solar plants are expected to create numerous job opportunities, particularly in the regions where the facilities will be built. This aligns with the government’s broader goals of economic growth and development in rural areas.

    Transparent Bidding Process

    Officials from the ministry emphasized that the government is committed to transitioning to renewable energy sources, with a target of generating 40 per cent of the nation’s total electricity from renewable sources by 2041. Currently, solar energy plays a vital role in the country’s energy landscape, with existing solar projects contributing significantly to the grid.

    Experts and stakeholders in the energy sector have welcomed the announcement, viewing it as a critical move toward achieving energy security and sustainability. The open tender is anticipated to stimulate competition, potentially lowering costs and improving the quality of solar power installations.

    As the tender process unfolds, the government will oversee a transparent bidding process, ensuring that the selected companies adhere to high standards of efficiency and sustainability. This project not only represents a step forward in renewable energy but also reflects Bangladesh’s commitment to international climate agreements and sustainable development goals.

    The upcoming tender for the ten solar power plants marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s energy strategy, positioning Bangladesh as a leader in renewable energy within the region and beyond.

    Disasters Trigger More Displacements than Conflicts, Says New ADB-IDMC Report

    OWSA Staff
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    Disasters Trigger More Displacements than Conflicts, Says New ADB-IDMC Report

    The report outlines several ways development finance can be used to prevent and respond to displacement. Multilateral development banks can support and encourage displacement-inclusive policies and investments, better national data systems, and raise awareness for countries to include displacement in their development strategies.

    Global disasters accounted for more displacements in 2023 than conflict and violence, and governments and multilateral development banks must invest more to prevent and manage these crises, according to a new report jointly authored by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC).

    The report found that last year, 26.4 million internal displacements — or forced movements within one’s country — were caused by disasters, compared to 20.5 million caused by conflict and violence.

    The report, Harnessing Development Financing for Solutions to Displacement in the Context of Disasters and Climate Change in Asia and the Pacific, found most of the disaster displacement recorded globally in the past 10 years occurred in Asia and the Pacific, with 177 million internal displacements reported during 2014−2023. ADB’s developing member countries (DMCs) accounted for 95 per cent of that total — more than 168 million displacements. The report warns that the effects of climate change will likely increase the scale, duration, and severity of displaced persons globally.

    Disaster Displacement Can Upend Lives

    “Addressing displacement in the context of climate change and disasters is a significant challenge for the region,” said ADB Vice-President Fatima Yasmin. “However, we know what needs to be done and how to do it. Development and adaptation finance channelled through multilateral development banks, such as ADB, can support member countries in addressing the root causes of displacement through sector investments, technical assistance, and co-financing.”

    “Disaster displacement can upend lives, cost countries billions of dollars, and set back development efforts by years, but it doesn’t have to be this way,” said IDMC Director Alexandra Bilak. “Investments in disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation plans can reduce the scale and negative impacts of displacement. The payoff could be huge.”

    The report outlines several ways development finance can be used to prevent and respond to displacement. Multilateral development banks can support and encourage displacement-inclusive policies and investments, better national data systems, and raise awareness for countries to include displacement in their development strategies.

    The report says governments also need to better reflect their priorities to reduce displacement through specific and concrete measures in the national development plans, adaptation and disaster risk reduction plans, and nationally determined contributions, and to better recognize the complexity of displacement occurring in the context of climate change.

    Climate Scientists Sound Alarm over Asia’s Rising Seas

    SciDevNet
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    Climate Scientists Sound Alarm over Asia’s Rising Seas

    Sea levels in the Pacific Ocean rising faster than global average and the Indian Ocean warming is already causing storms, erratic rainfall and droughts. Now, scientists call for urgent global action including reduced fossil fuel burning.

    By Ranjit Devraj

    Immediate action is needed at all levels to protect communities in the Asia Pacific from sea levels that are rising significantly faster than the global average, say climate scientists ahead of the next key UN climate summit.

    Sea level rise is caused by the emission of greenhouse gases from burning fossil fuels, which trap heat, causing glaciers and ice sheets to melt and water molecules to expand. It poses a serious threat to coastal communities in the region.

    Sea surface temperatures in the southwest Pacific have risen three times faster than the global average since 1980, according to analysis by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

    In much of the western tropical Pacific, the sea level has risen approximately 10–15 centimetres or nearly twice the global rate measured since 1993, while in the central tropical Pacific, sea level has risen approximately 5–10 centimetres, according to the WMO report.

    During that period, marine heatwaves have roughly doubled in frequency, lasting longer and becoming more intense, the WMO report said.

    Sea warming is already causing more frequent and more intense weather events such as tropical cyclones, floods and droughts, posing a major risk to coastal cities, explains Roxy Mathew Koll, climate scientist at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology.

    “We can no longer call the consequences of these events natural disasters as they are largely the result of human interventions at multiple levels, from global to national to local – so we have a collective responsibility here,” says Koll who led a study on Indian Ocean warming published April in Science Direct.

    According to Koll, more than 90 per cent of global warming gets absorbed by the seas with roughly a quarter of that going into the Indian Ocean.

    “The Indian Ocean, already the warmest large ocean, is warming up faster than the Pacific and the Atlantic Oceans – this is because the northern Indian Ocean basin is landlocked by the South Asian sub-continent,” he explains.

    There are also local, inland factors that add to sea level rise, says Anand Sharma, climate scientist and a former director of the India Meteorological Department.

    “Land subsidence, pollution, rivers that empty into the sea carrying sewage and nuclear power plants also contribute to sea level rise – these are in the hands of local governments.”

    COP29

    A key focus of the UN climate COP29, which starts in Baku in November, will be climate finance, to help countries reduce their emissions and protect the most vulnerable from the impacts of climate change.

    Sharma believes that countries in the Asia Pacific should begin local action immediately to protect themselves and their populations rather than wait for COP29 to initiate efforts at the global level.

    “Think and act local while waiting for global action might be the best policy,” he says.

    The Indo-Pacific region – which includes the tropical waters of the Indian Ocean, the central and western Pacific Ocean, and the seas linked to the two vast basins – is already marked by natural disasters, resource scarcity and internal conflict.

    The Indian Ocean too is warming fast. Koll and fellow researchers calculated that surface warming will likely increase by 1.4–3 degrees Celsius between 2020 and 2100, unless greenhouse gas emissions are reduced immediately.

    According to the India’s Ministry of Earth Sciences the sea level of the Indian Ocean rose at an average rate of 3.3 millimetres per year between 1993 and 2015.

    The World Bank predicts that by 2050, around 49 million people in the Pacific and East Asia will be forced to leave their homes due to climate change. The Pacific Islands, particularly the low-lying ones, are among the first regions to be impacted.

    The projected changes in surface temperatures in the Indo-Pacific region may lead to more extreme weather events, such as cyclones and cloudbursts.

    “Already we are seeing more coastal flooding, shoreline retreat saltwater contamination of freshwater supplies and displacement of communities,” said WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo.

    At the release of the WMO report in August, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that while some sea-level rise is inevitable, the scale, pace and impact will “depend on our decisions” in cutting greenhouse gas emissions and improving climate adaptation.

    “We need a surge in funds to deal with the surging seas,” he said.

    “At COP29, countries must agree to boost innovative financing and a strong new finance goal.”

    This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Asia & Pacific desk.

    Cyclone Dana Approaches Eastern India: Odisha and West Bengal Brace for Impact

    OWSA Staff
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    Cyclone Dana Approaches Eastern India: Odisha and West Bengal Brace for Impact

    The coming days will be critical as both Odisha and West Bengal brace for the potential impact of Cyclone Dana. Authorities, in the meanwhile are concentrating on safeguarding lives and minimising damage.

    As Cyclone Dana intensifies and approaches the eastern coast of India, authorities in Odisha and West Bengal are mobilizing resources and enacting safety measures in preparation for the storm’s expected landfall early Friday morning. The cyclone has been classified as “very severe,” prompting widespread cancellations of flights and trains and raising concerns about the potential impact on local communities.

    As the resilience of the communities in Odisha and West Bengal will be tested once again as they face the realities of an increasingly volatile climate, district authorities have urged people to stay informed, heed official warnings, and prioritise safety as they navigate this challenging situation.

    Meteorological Warnings and Anticipated Impact

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings of heavy rainfall and high winds, predicting gusts could reach up to 120 km/h. While the storm is forecast to primarily impact Odisha, West Bengal is also preparing for severe weather, albeit to a lesser extent as the cyclone’s trajectory appears to be shifting westward.

    Officials are urging residents in low-lying coastal areas to remain vigilant, with some regions expected to receive up to 300 mm of rain. “We are closely monitoring the situation and taking necessary precautions,” said an IMD spokesperson. “People should stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.”

    The weather agency has predicted light to moderate rainfall in most areas, with heavy to very heavy rainfall expected in a few locations and isolated instances of extremely heavy rainfall (≥ 21 cm) in Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Bhadrak, Kendrapada, Jagatsinghpur, Keonjhar, Jajpur, Cuttack, Dhenkanal, Khurda, and Puri districts on October 24-25.

    Moderate rain or thundershowers, along with a couple of spells of intense rain and surface wind speeds reaching 35-40 km/h, may occur in parts of Bhadrak, Kendrapada, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack (including Cuttack city), Khurda (including Bhubaneswar), and Puri districts by 7:30 PM on Thursday.

    Transportation Disruptions

    The impending cyclone has led to significant disruptions in transportation. Many airlines have cancelled flights to and from Bhubaneswar and Kolkata, and major railway services along the country’s eastern coast have been suspended. Travellers have also been advised to check with airlines and rail services for the latest updates as conditions continue to evolve.

    Evacuations and Community Preparedness

    In response to the storm threat, the Odisha government has activated its disaster management protocols, facilitating evacuations in vulnerable coastal regions. Temporary shelters are being established to accommodate those displaced by the storm. Local authorities are also ensuring that essential supplies, including food and medical aid, are available.

    “We are focused on protecting lives and property,” stated an official from the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA). “Our teams are on the ground, ready to assist communities.”

    Meanwhile, West Bengal is also implementing precautionary measures, advising residents to prepare for potential flooding and power outages. Coastal districts have been put on high alert, and local governments are working to ensure that resources are in place to respond quickly to any emergencies.

    Environmental Concerns and Vulnerabilities

    As Cyclone Dana approaches, environmentalists are raising alarms about the vulnerability of coastal communities, particularly those that have lost natural mangrove protection due to development. Reports indicate that many villages in Odisha are now defenceless against the storm’s fury, having lost crucial barriers that historically mitigated the impacts of severe weather.

    “Increased urbanization has stripped away our natural defences, leaving communities at greater risk during cyclones,” warned an environmental advocate. “It’s crucial to prioritize ecological preservation to protect our coastlines from future disasters.”

    Community Resilience and Solidarity

    Despite the looming threat of the cyclone, there is a palpable sense of resilience among local communities. Residents are taking proactive measures to secure their homes and gather emergency supplies. In Odisha, villagers are forming groups to coordinate evacuations and share resources, showcasing a strong community spirit.

    “We know the challenges that come with cyclones,” shared a local leader. “We are prepared to face whatever comes our way, and we will help each other through this.”

    As Cyclone Dana draws closer, the focus remains on safety and preparedness. Meteorologists are continuously updating forecasts and monitoring the cyclone’s path, emphasizing the importance of remaining vigilant.

    The IMD has reiterated that while West Bengal may experience less severe impacts, it is crucial for residents to remain alert as weather conditions can change rapidly. Emergency services are on standby, ready to respond to any needs that arise during and after the storm.

    Supreme Court Critiques CAQM’s Inaction on Air Quality Amid Delhi’s Pollution Crisis

    OWSA Staff
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    Supreme Court Critiques CAQM’s Inaction on Air Quality Amid Delhi’s Pollution Crisis

    Local authorities have also been called to action, implementing measures such as increasing the frequency of dust suppression operations and enhancing public transport systems to reduce vehicular emissions.

    The Supreme Court of India on Wednesday delivered a critique of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), asserting that the agency has made insufficient efforts to implement its own directives regarding air pollution control. This condemnation comes as the national capital, Delhi, continues to suffer from alarming levels of air pollution, shrouding the city in thick smog and raising health concerns for millions of residents.

    The Supreme Court’s remarks came during a hearing where the bench underscored the urgency of addressing the public health crisis stemming from air quality degradation. It highlighted a concerning disconnect between regulatory intentions and actionable measures.

    Observing that no effort is being made by the CAQM to implement its own directions, the court stated, “From the affidavit of compliance we find that no effort is being made by CAQM for implementation of its directions, not a single prosecution has been initiated and the last meeting was only held on August 29.”

    The CAQM, established to tackle the worsening air quality in Delhi and surrounding regions, was criticized for its lack of effectiveness in enforcing existing regulations and initiatives aimed at pollution reduction.

    The judicial intervention underscores the broader implications of air pollution on public health and the environment as the air quality index (AQI) in Delhi remains firmly entrenched in the “very poor” category, with levels of pollutants often exceeding 300 micrograms per cubic meter. Such conditions pose significant health risks, especially for vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.

    Tough Months Ahead

    The Supreme Court’s comments come in the wake of mounting public pressure and criticism from environmentalists regarding the CAQM’s performance. Experts have pointed out that despite multiple measures being proposed — ranging from restrictions on construction activities to the implementation of stricter vehicle emission standards — there has been a notable lack of follow-through on these initiatives.

    As the Court pressed for immediate action, it called upon the CAQM to present a detailed plan outlining concrete steps to mitigate pollution levels. This demand highlights the urgency of the situation, especially as winter approaches, when air quality typically deteriorates due to factors such as stubble burning in neighbouring states and climatic conditions that trap pollutants close to the ground.

    Meanwhile, as Delhi grapples with the ongoing crisis, residents are bracing for a tough few months ahead. The thick morning smog has become a distressing routine for many, with visibility significantly reduced and air quality posing serious health hazards. Citizens have been urged to stay indoors, limit outdoor activities, and use masks when venturing out, as the air becomes increasingly laden with harmful particulates.

    Local authorities have also been called to action, implementing measures such as increasing the frequency of dust suppression operations and enhancing public transport systems to reduce vehicular emissions. However, citizens remain sceptical about the efficacy of these efforts, citing a history of incomplete initiatives and insufficient resources allocated to combat pollution.

    Health experts warn that prolonged exposure to such hazardous air can lead to a myriad of health issues, including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and aggravated asthma conditions. Hospitals in the region are already witnessing a surge in patients suffering from pollution-related ailments, a trend that is likely to escalate as the smog continues to blanket the city.

    World Undergoing Several Uncertainties: Modi at BRICS Summit

    OWSA Contributor
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    World Undergoing Several Uncertainties: Modi at BRICS Summit

    Recalling the Voice of Global South Summits hosted by India during its G-20 Presidency, Modi stressed that the group must give primacy to the concerns of the Global South.

    India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, participated in the 16th BRICS Summit held with Russia in the Chair, in Kazan on Wednesday.

    ​Prime Minister Modi addressed two sessions of the BRICS Summit. In his address, Modi noted that the Summit is happening at a time when the world is undergoing several uncertainties and challenges including conflicts, adverse climatic impacts, and cyber threats, placing greater expectations upon BRICS. PM Modi suggested that the group take a people-centric approach to tackle these challenges. Modi also underlined the need for early adoption of a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the United Nations to combat the menace of terrorism.

    Modi said, “Our meeting is taking place at a time, when the world is facing several pressing challenges such as wars, economic uncertainty, climate change and terrorism. The world is talking about the North South divide and the East West divide. Preventing inflation, ensuring food security, energy security , health security, water security, are matters of priority for all countries in the world. And in this era of technology, new challenges have emerged such as cyber deepfake, disinformation.”

    He added, “At such a time, there are high expectations of BRICS. I believe that as a diverse and inclusive platform, BRICS can play a positive role in all areas. In this regard, our approach must remain people centric. We have to give the world the message that BRICS is not a divisive organisation but one that works in the interest of humanity.”

    Concerns of the Global South

    The Prime Minister called upon BRICS to proactively push for global governance reforms. Recalling the Voice of Global South Summits hosted by India during its G-20 Presidency, he stressed that the group must give primacy to the concerns of the Global South. Modi noted that the regional presence of the New Development Bank including in GIFT city, India, has created new values and impacts.

    Highlighting BRICS’ activities to foster economic growth, he emphasized that its efforts on trade facilitation in agriculture, resilient supply chains, e-commerce and Special Economic Zones have generated new opportunities. He underlined the need to prioritise small and medium scale industries. He expressed that the BRICS Startup Forum initiated by India which is to be launched this year would add significant value to the BRICS economic agenda.

    Prime Minister Modi elaborated on the recent green initiatives undertaken by India, including the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, Mission LIFE and Green Credit initiative announced during COP28. He invited BRICS countries to join these initiatives.

    Prime Minister congratulated President Putin for successfully hosting the 16th BRICS Summit and conveyed his good wishes to Brazil as it takes over the presidency of the group. At the conclusion of the Summit, the leaders adopted the ‘Kazan Declaration’.

    Delhi’s Air Quality Plummets to ‘Very Poor’ Level Amid Haze

    OWSA Staff
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    Delhi’s Air Quality Plummets to ‘Very Poor’ Level Amid Haze

    The CAQM recommended the activation of phase two of the Graded Action Plan (GRAP), which includes stringent restrictions aimed at reducing airborne pollutants. Emergency measures implemented as pollution worsens in the national capital.

    Delhi’s air quality deteriorated sharply on Tuesday, reaching the ‘very poor’ category with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 385 recorded at 8 AM. As winter settles in, the capital is enveloped in a thick haze, prompting authorities to take immediate action to combat the escalating pollution levels.

    The situation is dire, with toxic foam visible on the Yamuna River near Kalindi Kunj. Areas such as India Gate have reported an AQI of 328, while neighborhoods like Anand Vihar and Kalkaji are shrouded in thick fog. Residents express their frustration, lamenting the state of the environment. “Delhi is dying,” one local remarked, emphasizing the lack of clean air, water, and public cleanliness.

    In response to the alarming AQI readings, the sub-committee of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) convened an emergency meeting on Monday. Following their discussions, they recommended the activation of phase two of the Graded Action Plan (GRAP), which includes stringent restrictions aimed at reducing airborne pollutants. These measures came into effect on Tuesday morning.

    Toxic Haze Engulfs the City

    The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has categorized Delhi’s air quality as ‘very poor’, raising concerns about the health implications for residents, particularly those suffering from respiratory conditions. The CAQM’s recommendations include a series of actions to mitigate the pollution crisis, which have been directed to relevant departments and institutions.

    Under the GRAP framework, four levels of restrictions are implemented based on AQI readings: GRAP-1 (AQI 201-300), GRAP-2 (AQI 301-400), GRAP-3 (AQI 401-450), and GRAP-4 (AQI over 450). As the city navigates these phases, specific measures are enforced to curb pollution sources.

    The effectiveness of these new initiatives remains to be seen. With the winter months bringing further challenges to air quality, residents and officials alike are left to wonder whether the latest efforts will provide much-needed relief from the suffocating smog enveloping Delhi.

    1...464748...205Page 47 of 205
    Bangladesh

    Yunus Warns of ‘War-Like Situation’ Amid Political Crisis and Rising Tensions

    The high-stakes meeting brought together 20 leaders from various political parties and organisations in two separate sessions, as Yunus sought to shore up support amid reports of internal tensions within his interim government and growing external pressure.
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    New Projections Show Extreme Glacier Loss Already at 2°C

    Staying close to 1.5°C on the other hand preserves at least some glacier ice in all regions, even Scandinavia, with 20-30 per cent remaining in the four most sensitive regions; and 40-45 per cent in the Himalayas and Caucuses; stressing the growing urgency of the 1.5°C temperature goal and rapid decarbonization to achieve it.
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    Sri Lanka and New Zealand Eye Stronger Economic and Educational Ties

    Beyond trade, both nations expressed keen interest in enhancing vocational training collaboration, with a specific focus on developing industry-aligned skills for Sri Lankan youth.

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