Delhi Urged to Study China’s Playbook as Capital Battles Severe Air Pollution

New Delhi is once again engulfed in a dense blanket of toxic smog, prompting renewed calls from experts and foreign observers for the capital to examine China’s decade-long campaign against hazardous air pollution. The appeal comes as Beijing’s remarkable turnaround—from being labelled the “smog capital of the world” to achieving comparatively clean air—continues to draw international attention.

The conversation intensified this week after the Chinese Embassy in India publicly shared a series of posts outlining the steps China took to reverse its air quality crisis. Embassy spokesperson Yu Jing described the situation as a “shared struggle” between two rapidly urbanizing nations and highlighted the stark contrast in current air quality levels. Beijing recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 68, considered “satisfactory,” while Delhi’s AQI hovered around a “severe” 447, according to India’s Central Pollution Control Board.

China’s Recommendations: A Step-by-Step Guide

In a detailed social media series, the Chinese Embassy outlined several measures that contributed to Beijing’s dramatic improvement:

1. Ultra-Strict Vehicle Emission Controls

China phased out older, high-emission vehicles, introduced stringent emission standards, and aggressively promoted electric mobility. Coordinated regional action among Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei was crucial in reducing vehicular pollution.

2. Industrial Restructuring and Relocation

Heavy industries were either shut down or relocated away from urban centres. Former factory sites were transformed into public spaces and economic hubs, reducing industrial emissions while revitalizing city landscapes.

3. Large-Scale Public Transport Expansion

Beijing has invested heavily in metro networks, electric buses, and non-motorised transport infrastructure, thereby reducing its dependence on private vehicles.

4. Regional Coordination and Enforcement

China’s centralised governance enabled the swift implementation of sweeping measures—something experts note may be more challenging in India’s democratic and decentralized system.

Delhi’s Crisis Deepens

Delhi’s air quality has deteriorated sharply in recent weeks, triggering Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), the most stringent level of emergency measures. These include halting construction activities, restricting vehicle movement, and advising residents to work from home where possible.

Hospitals across the city have reported a surge in respiratory illnesses, while schools have faced intermittent closures due to hazardous conditions. Visibility on major roads has dropped significantly, causing traffic disruptions and flight delays.

Political and Public Pressure Mounts

The worsening crisis has sparked debate in Parliament, where lawmakers across party lines have urged the government to adopt tougher, long-term measures. Telugu Desam Party MP Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu called for “hard steps like China,” arguing that incremental or “half-hearted” efforts would not suffice to protect public health.

Public frustration is also growing, with residents demanding accountability and sustainable solutions rather than seasonal emergency responses.

Experts Caution Against Direct Replication

While China’s success offers valuable lessons, environmental analysts warn that Delhi cannot simply copy Beijing’s model. India’s political structure, economic constraints, and regional complexities require tailored solutions.

However, experts agree that several elements—such as stricter vehicle norms, industrial regulation, and coordinated regional action—could be adapted effectively. Many also emphasize the need for long-term planning rather than reactive measures each winter.

A Cross-Border Moment of Cooperation?

China’s outreach has been interpreted by some as a diplomatic gesture, highlighting shared environmental challenges rather than geopolitical rivalry. Whether India chooses to adopt elements of Beijing’s strategy remains to be seen, but the message is clear: without bold, sustained action, Delhi’s air pollution crisis will continue to threaten millions of lives each year.

As the capital endures yet another season of hazardous smog, the pressure to act decisively—and learn from global examples—has never been greater.