Delhi air pollution: How to fight toxic air and protect the city’s trees amid worsening air quality

Delhi’s pollution problem is no longer limited to people struggling to breathe. A new study has found that toxic air is also affecting roadside trees, reducing the green pigment in their leaves and their ability to retain water. But instead of simply planting more trees or spraying water on roads, experts say the city needs to tackle pollution at its source. A study published in BIO Web of Conferences examined seven tree species across four Delhi locations. It found that trees in highly polluted Anand Vihar had much lower chlorophyll levels than those in Pusa. The findings raise another concern: even the trees that help improve urban air quality are under stress. Here are five science-backed steps that could help Delhi fight pollution.

Plant more pollution-tolerant trees in your area

The study found that neem, amaltas and false ashoka showed higher pollution tolerance among the seven species studied. The researchers suggested that these trees be considered for green belts near busy roads and industrial areas. However, planting trees cannot replace efforts to reduce emissions. Protecting existing trees and choosing suitable species should go together.

Opt for public transport

Delhi-NCR still continues to be a major contributor of vehicle emission pollution. A parliamentary committee had recommended in its 2025 report to expand electric and CNG-based public transport, improve last-mile connectivity and take action against heavily polluting vehicles. More reliable buses and metro connections could encourage people to leave their private vehicles at home.

Control of road dust and construction pollution

Dust from roads and construction sites is added to the pollution load. The Commission for Air Quality Management has recommended mechanical road sweeping, covering construction materials, paving dusty road shoulders and proper disposal of construction waste. There needs to be regular monitoring to ensure that building sites are complying with the rules on controlling dust.

Prohibit open burning of garbage

Burning leaves, garbage and crop residue puts harmful particles into the air. Farmers need better access to machines that can manage crop waste without burning it. Cities must also improve waste collection and stop the burning of garbage in open areas. Pollution knows no borders of state. A 2026 study in npj Clean Air found that regional action could improve Delhi’s air quality more than measures limited to the capital. The researchers' message was clear: "Delhi cannot clean its air alone." Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan need to coordinate action against vehicle, industrial, dust and crop-burning emissions.

Can Delhi protect its trees and people?

The latest tree study is a reminder that pollution affects the entire urban environment. Planting greener roads may help, but cleaner air will depend on reducing the smoke, dust and harmful gases entering it in the first place.