Question

Northern India is enveloped in smog in the month of November. List the causes for the same.

Answer 1

The smog in Northern India, particularly in November, is caused by several factors:

1. Crop Burning: Farmers in states like Punjab and Haryana burn paddy straw after harvest, which releases large amounts of smoke and particulate matter into the atmosphere, contributing to smog formation.
2. Vehicular Emissions: The high number of vehicles on the roads in major cities like Delhi release significant amounts of pollutants like nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter, which worsen air quality during this period.
3. Weather Conditions: The cooler temperatures in November trap pollutants near the ground due to a phenomenon called temperature inversion, where a layer of warm air traps cold air below, preventing the dispersion of pollutants.
4. Industrial Pollution: Industrial activities in and around major cities release toxic gases and particulate matter, further adding to the smog.
5. Firecrackers: During festivals like Diwali, the widespread use of firecrackers releases large amounts of smoke and toxic chemicals into the air, worsening the pollution levels.

These factors combine in November, creating thick smog and poor air quality in Northern India.