By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Hanoi’s air quality reached critically hazardous levels on Friday, registering 266 micrograms of PM2.5 per cubic meter, the highest globally according to AirVisual. This severe smog, attributed to traffic, industrial activity, and waste burning, has prompted the government to accelerate its transition to electric vehicles by 2030, aiming for at least 50% of buses and 100% of taxis to be electric. Experts cite unfavorable weather conditions, trapping pollutants, as a contributing factor, with improvement not expected until the arrival of rain in March. The ongoing pollution affects residents of all ages, causing respiratory problems and reduced visibility.
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Hanoi declared world’s most polluted city is a shocking headline, but the reality on the ground appears even worse than the news suggests. The air quality is described as horrific, a haze so thick that the sun is often obscured. The smoke is palpable, a constant reminder of the pervasive pollution. Locals frequently wear masks, a stark visual representation of the environmental challenge.
This isn’t a new problem; accounts suggest the situation in Hanoi has drastically worsened since 2016, with the nearby city of Haiphong possibly even more polluted. The air pollution is severely impacting the health of residents, particularly those with respiratory conditions like asthma.
One significant contributing factor appears to be the sheer number of older motorbikes on the roads. These vehicles, crucial to many people’s livelihoods, contribute significantly to the pollution levels. Weak traffic enforcement, combined with overcrowded buses and poorly maintained roads, further exacerbates the issue and discourages the use of public transport.
Recently, however, there’s been a shift towards stricter traffic enforcement, particularly regarding running red lights. A new system allows citizens to report violations for a commission of the fine, creating a community incentive to improve traffic compliance. While this is a step in the right direction, its long-term impact remains uncertain.
Beyond traffic, the problem extends to ingrained habits and systemic issues. Many people lack access to adequate waste disposal, leading to widespread littering and open burning of trash, including plastic. Even organized waste management may involve burning, adding to the air pollution. These practices, combined with unregulated industrial activities, create a vicious cycle of pollution.
The city’s geography also plays a significant role. Hanoi sits in a valley, surrounded by mountains on three sides, trapping pollutants and preventing them from dissipating. This natural confinement exacerbates the impact of existing pollution sources. The government, however, seems to acknowledge the seriousness of the situation and has indicated plans to promote electric vehicles to alleviate the problem.
Comparisons are often made with other heavily polluted cities globally, such as those in India and China. While some improvements are observed in parts of China, Hanoi’s pollution level seems to have surpassed those cities at certain times. The contrast with other Vietnamese cities, such as Ho Chi Minh City, is also notable, with HCMC described as significantly less polluted.
This stark difference highlights the unique challenges facing Hanoi. It’s not just a problem of industrial emissions; the scale of motorbike use, inadequate waste management, and the city’s geographic constraints all contribute to the high pollution levels. The issue is not just an environmental problem but a social one, deeply intertwined with the economic realities of the population. Many people prioritize immediate economic needs over long-term environmental concerns, reflecting a broader societal challenge.
The fact remains that Hanoi is currently facing an unprecedented level of air pollution. The situation requires a multifaceted approach, tackling traffic management, waste disposal, industrial regulation, and possibly even broader infrastructure changes. While positive steps are being taken, the sheer magnitude of the problem and underlying systemic issues suggest that a long and arduous journey remains.
Despite these challenges, Hanoi continues to be a vibrant and attractive city, prompting tourists to visit and experience its unique culture and charm. While the current air quality presents a serious concern, the city’s beauty and attractions remain compelling for many visitors. However, the city’s current environmental status serves as a critical reminder of the urgent need for sustainable and comprehensive solutions to address air pollution. This is not just a local problem; it underscores the global challenge of balancing economic development with environmental protection.