Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, has become one of the most polluted cities in the world. It was ranked as the second-best place in a recent global air quality survey, alongside New Delhi. The city is shrouded in persistent smog and dangerously high levels of carbon dioxide and fine particulate matter (PM2.5), far exceeding safety thresholds recommended by the World Health Organisation, raising serious health concerns. Authorities have advised citizens to limit outdoor activities and consider closing schools on days of particularly high pollution. This poor air quality reflects broader environmental issues caused by vehicle traffic, industrialisation, and stagnant weather conditions.
Hanoi Faces Severe Smog, Second Most Polluted City After Delhi
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Hanoi is now the second-most polluted city in the world, right after Delhi.
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The levels of PM2.5 particles are beginning to reach dangerous levels in the city, and are majorly surpassing the limit set by the WHO.
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The constant haze and smog have raised some health issues, particularly for children and elderly people.
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The government has encouraged citizens to engage in minimal outdoor activities when the pollution is at its peak.
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Vehicle emissions, industrial operations, and stationary weather conditions have been the major causes of pollution.
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The condition in Hanoi is a case of increasing air pollution in the urban centres in Southeast Asia.
Recently Asked Question Based on PYQS
| Name of Exam | Year | Question | Answer |
|---|---|---|---|
| SSC CGL | 2022 | Which organisation ranks cities by air quality globally? | IQAir |
| UPSC Prelims | 2021 | Which pollutant is used as a key indicator of air quality? | PM2.5 particles |
| RRB NTPC | 2020 | Delhi often ranks among the most polluted cities for which pollutant? | PM2.5 |
| SSC CHSL | 2019 | What is the primary cause of urban air pollution in large cities? | Vehicular and industrial emissions |
| CDS | 2023 | Which Indian city frequently tops global pollution rankings? | Delhi |
| UPSC Mains | 2018 | True or False: Air pollution can affect human respiratory health. | True |
| SSC GD | 2019 | Which air quality index is commonly used to show pollution levels? | AQI (Air Quality Index) |
| Railway Group D | 2021 | What factor worsens Delhi’s pollution in winter? | Crop burning in neighbouring states |
Conclusion
The second position of Hanoi in a list of the most polluted cities after Delhi is an indication of the dire need to have more stringent control over air quality. Increased PM2.5 due to traffic, industries, and weather patterns are very dangerous to human health and therefore, sustainable urban planning, control of pollution, and public education are necessary in order to ensure that people and the environment are safe.
