Topic: Temperature Inversion
Q2. Explain the conditions favouring temperature inversion. Explain its ecological and health impacts in India. What strategies can be adopted to mitigate its effects in urban areas? (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: InsightsIAS
Why the question
Frequent winter smog episodes in Indian cities like Delhi have drawn attention to temperature inversion as a driver of air pollution and urban health crises.Key Demand of the question
The question requires explaining the meteorological conditions responsible for temperature inversion, analysing its ecological and health impacts with Indian examples, and suggesting strategies for mitigation in urban contexts.Structure of the Answer
Introduction
Give a brief context on inversion as an abnormal lapse rate phenomenon and its relevance to India’s urban climate issues.Body
- Conditions favouring inversion – factors like clear nights, calm air, valleys, snow cover, and urban surfaces.
- Ecological and health impacts – trapped pollutants, reduced vegetation productivity, respiratory ailments, transport hazards.
- Strategies to mitigate – stronger air quality governance, emission reduction policies, urban greening, forecasting systems, and public health preparedness.
Conclusion
End with a futuristic note on the need to integrate meteorology with urban planning for building resilient and healthier cities.
