For the first time in decades, Delhi is experiencing a decline in its winter charm as residents are forced to escape the city due to severe air pollution. The question now arises: has Delhi reached its environmental limits in terms of economic growth? With an influx of foreign investments, a growing population, and increasing vehicular emissions, the city is grappling with the consequences of rapid urbanization and industrialization.
Delhi has long been a magnet for investments, attracting billions of dollars in foreign equity inflows. In fact, between October 2019 and September 2023, Delhi alone received a staggering $28.3 billion, making it the fourth most attractive investment destination in India. This excludes the foreign equity invested in satellite cities like Gurgaon, Faridabad, Noida, and Ghaziabad. The city’s pool of talent and abundant career opportunities have made it an education hub and a thriving market.
However, weak industrialization in the surrounding areas has led to a significant inflow of migrants into Delhi. The population of the city has seen a steady increase over the decades, with growth rates of around 50% from 1961 to 2001. The growth rate declined to 21% in the 2001-11 period, attributed to the emergence of satellite cities.
According to the United Nations’ 2018 report on world urbanization prospects, Delhi’s population was projected to surpass that of Mumbai and Kolkata. The report estimated that by 2025, the population in Delhi’s urban agglomeration would reach 35 million, with Mumbai and Kolkata trailing behind at 22 million and 16 million, respectively. This exponential population growth poses a significant challenge as it leads to increased usage of cooking, motor, and industrial fuels, resulting in heightened emissions.
The number of motor vehicles registered in Delhi, Faridabad, and Ghaziabad alone reached a staggering 19.1 million by the end of March 2020. This number does not account for vehicles registered in other cities within the capital region, such as Noida and Gurgaon. Comparatively, Greater Mumbai and its surrounding areas had only 7.51 million registered vehicles.
Efforts to combat the pollution crisis have fallen short. In 1995, a Supreme Court directive led to the sale of only unleaded petrol in Delhi by 1998. Additionally, by the end of 2002, the city’s bus fleet was converted to compressed natural gas, followed by autorickshaws and taxis. The establishment of a 392 km metro rail network further aimed to reduce emissions. While these measures have helped to some extent, the influx of vehicles and the city’s growing population continue to contribute to pollution levels.
Delhi Metro, with an average daily passenger count of 6.7 lakh last October, has played a crucial role in reducing emissions. According to a press statement released by the Delhi Metro, it has successfully averted the emission of over 7 lakh tonnes of CO2 and 73 tonnes of fine particles in 2022. Nevertheless, the overall impact remains inadequate, considering the rapid population growth and increasing vehicular density.
As Delhi grapples with these challenges, it is crucial to address the environmental limits of economic growth. Balancing economic development with sustainable and eco-friendly practices is essential for the future of the city. The need for innovative solutions, stricter regulations, and investments in renewable energy sources has never been more critical.
The charm of Delhi winters is fading, replaced by a dense smog that shrouds the city. With its position as a leading investment destination and a growing population, Delhi finds itself at a critical juncture. Only by addressing the environmental limits of economic growth can the city reclaim its former glory and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.
