Delhi Air Contaminated with Heavy Metals: CPCB Report
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) that heavy metals like copper, zinc, and chromium have been detected in Delhi’s air.
Samples from Pitampura, Siri Fort, Janakpuri, and Shahdara showed PM10 levels at 130 µg/m³, with zinc being the most prevalent.
This follows a study that highlighted a heavy metal exposure index (HEI), identifying east Delhi as one of the most polluted areas before the COVID-19 lockdown.
India lacks national standards for several of these metals, unlike countries such as Canada.
The CPCB emphasized that reducing PM levels would help curb metal concentration and noted that the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) aims to cut PM10 by up to 40% by 2025-26.
The report highlights the urgent need for stricter air quality regulations to protect public health in Delhi and other cities.
