For instance, there is the problem of monitoring the benzene content in the air. Benzene, which is known to cause cancer, is present in petrol. The Central Pollution Control Board is currently working out ways in which to monitor the benzene content in the air. The apparent drop in Delhi's air pollution has given existing environment initiatives a shot in the arm. Suresh Prabhu, the Minister for Environment and Forests, has gone on record stating that this change was only a beginning and part of a long-term strategy that was bound to work.
Plans are also afoot to convert some of Delhi's busiest areas into traffic-free zones.
If the changes in Delhi's atmosphere indicate a long-term trend in air pollution control, it spells good news for the rest of the country. While environmental experts differ on the conclusions drawn from the Central Pollution Control Board's study, there is a general consensus that only time can stand testimony to the efficacy of the air pollution control measures. It also underlines the fact that when political will, industry initiative and public commitment come together, there is very little that cannot be achieved. For instance, Italy, USA, Japan and the Netherlands have been exploring the use of alternative fuels due to its significant benefits in terms of cost and low emissions. Manufacturers are also researching other options such as electrical power and Hydrogen.