Delhi, the capital of India, is currently facing one of its most severe air pollution crises, ranking as the most polluted city globally. The alarming air quality levels have raised significant concerns among residents and officials alike, prompting calls for urgent government action. Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has been particularly vocal about this pressing issue, labeling Delhi as 'uninhabitable' during the winter months, from November to January, and questioning whether it should continue to serve as the national capital.
The air quality index (AQI) of Delhi reached a staggering 488 earlier this week, categorizing it as 'severe plus.' This level of pollution is not just inconvenient; it poses serious health risks, especially for vulnerable populations, including children and the elderly. Tharoor's sentiments echo the frustrations of many, as he took to social media to express his dismay over the government's inadequate response to the persistent pollution crisis.
Over the years, Tharoor has facilitated discussions focusing on air quality issues, gathering experts and stakeholders to devise solutions, but he found himself disheartened last year when it seemed no tangible progress had been made. He noted, "This city is basically unlivable from November to January and barely livable for the rest of the year. Should it even remain the nation's capital?" His remarks have sparked wider debate about the effectiveness of existing government frameworks and policies aimed at combating pollution.
The environment has been under siege for quite some time, with multiple factors contributing to the crisis. A significant contributor is the seasonal stubble burning by farmers from neighboring states like Punjab and Haryana. This practice involves setting fire to straw left after harvesting crops, which then releases excessive smoke and pollutants, trapping them within the cold winter air of the capital. The cold weather prevents these harmful particles from dispersing, causing them to accumulate and lead to dangerously high AQI levels.
With this year's pollution peaks, educational institutions like Jawaharlal Nehru University have transitioned to online classes to safeguard students' health. Schools across the National Capital Region, including Gurugram, have either suspended classes or shifted to virtual platforms until air quality improves.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has also raised alerts about the deteriorated conditions, mandatorily advising individuals entering the court premises to wear masks and take preventive health measures. Authorities have been criticized for their slow pace, and many wonder if tougher regulations and more proactive measures could have made a difference.
The public's frustration reached new heights when Amitabh Kant, India's G20 Sherpa and former Niti Aayog CEO, shared pictures depicting clear skies from Brazil, contrasting starkly with the smog-filled reality back home. His post drew criticism, highlighting the disparity between the clean air he was enjoying and the toxic environment gripping Delhi. Responses on social media reflected discontent and the feeling of helplessness encountered by Delhi residents, as well as questioning the responsibility of high-ranking officials.
Tharoor has been relentless, pressing for change and advocating for urgent measures to address the air quality crisis. He pointed out the government's failure to honor their pledges of improvement over the years. Among his proposals, he suggests stricter restrictions on emissions from vehicles and industries to significantly mitigate pollution levels, alongside raising public awareness about the importance of clean air.
With the winter season bringing additional challenges, immediate strategies are being called for to manage the hazardous air quality effectively. Medical experts have warned of health emergencies ensuing from the dangerously polluted air, advising individuals to avoid outdoor exposure wherever possible. Health advisories stressing the use of face masks have become commonplace.
Efforts to combat air pollution are not limited to Delhi alone; various northern regions are also waking up to the danger posed by poor air quality. Many regions reported AQI readings well above recommended levels, turning the spotlight on the need for united regional efforts to tackle pollution comprehensively.
The increased awareness and discussions surrounding air quality may spur change, but the path forward requires sustained commitment from both the government and citizens. Environmental policies and practices must evolve, taking lessons from the past and committed advocates like Tharoor to heart.
At the end of the day, the air residents of Delhi breathe is not just another statistic; it's about health, quality of life, and the urgent need to make meaningful changes. The world watches as this citadel of culture and politics seeks to reclaim its health amid the dark veil of smog and pollution, with hopes riding on the fervent call for action from all quarters.
