Delhi's Air Quality Shows Marginal Improvement
Residents of India's capital witnessed a slight reprieve from hazardous air conditions on Sunday morning as Delhi's overall air quality improved from the 'very poor' to the 'poor' category. According to data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the city recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 269 at 7 am, showing significant progress from the 305 reported at 4 pm on Saturday.
Mixed Picture Across Delhi Neighborhoods
Despite this overall improvement, the situation across Delhi presented a varied picture. Several areas continued to grapple with 'very poor' air quality, with Shadipur recording the highest pollution level at 335 AQI. Other severely affected areas included Jahangirpuri (324), Nehru Nagar (319), RK Puram (307), and the Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences in Dilshad Garden (303).
Meanwhile, ITO and several parts of New Delhi remained shrouded in thick smog, reducing visibility and raising health concerns among residents. In contrast, Mandir Marg provided some relief with an AQI of 158, placing it in the 'moderate' range.
Political Storm Over Delhi's Pollution Crisis
The Delhi government stated that it is regularly monitoring pollution levels and implementing measures to reduce emissions. However, the persistent pollution problem has triggered strong political reactions.
Senior Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit launched a sharp criticism against the authorities, accusing them of failing to act effectively. Dikshit described the rising pollution as a form of "murder" and expressed grave concerns about public health.
"Delhi's environment has become utterly polluted, and this has increasingly been seen over the last six to seven years. People may measure it in AQI or any other form, but I consider it murder," Dikshit stated. He further emphasized that doctors have warned about reduced life expectancy for Delhi residents living in such conditions.
Adding to the political pressure, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has demanded a parliamentary debate on Delhi's worsening air quality, highlighting the growing concern among political leaders about the capital's environmental crisis.
