Conversations about air pollution in New Delhi on X: Causes, solutions and perceived effects

New Delhi faces severe air pollution and is projected to become the world’s most populous city by 2030, and, as a result, public discussion of smog has intensified on X. This study analysed more than 100,000 X posts to examine public perceptions of the causes, solutions and effects of air pollution. Framing analysis revealed notable differences between citizen discourse and mainstream media narratives. Users most often blamed crop stubble burning and holiday fireworks rather than vehicles or industrial emissions. Suggested solutions emphasized stronger environmental enforcement and green initiatives. The impact of air pollution on public life and the economy, including lost wages and missed school days, was discussed more frequently than its direct effects on public health.