Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has issued an urgent call for unified action among northern Indian states to tackle the escalating air pollution crisis that has engulfed the national capital region. With air quality deteriorating to severe levels, the CM emphasized that pollution recognizes no political boundaries and requires collective effort.
Emergency Measures Implemented
The Delhi government has activated the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the city as pollution levels continue to breach dangerous thresholds. Among the immediate measures announced, all schools will remain closed for the next two days to protect children from exposure to toxic air.
Chief Minister Kejriwal specifically highlighted the critical need to address stubble burning in neighboring states, identifying it as a major contributor to Delhi's pollution crisis. He stressed that while Delhi has made significant progress in controlling local pollution sources, the seasonal practice of crop residue burning continues to overwhelm these efforts.
Cross-State Coordination Needed
The pollution emergency has prompted calls for a coordinated regional approach involving Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. Kejriwal pointed out that air pollution doesn't respect state borders, making isolated actions insufficient to combat the problem effectively.
The current air quality index has consistently remained in the 'severe' category, posing serious health risks to residents, particularly children, elderly citizens, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. Medical experts have reported increased cases of breathing difficulties, asthma attacks, and other pollution-related health issues.
Comprehensive Action Plan
The implemented measures include:
- Immediate closure of all schools for two days
- Strict enforcement of GRAP protocols
- Enhanced public transportation services
- Construction activity restrictions
- Increased water sprinkling on roads
Kejriwal emphasized that long-term solutions must address both local pollution sources and regional factors like stubble burning. He called for technological interventions and financial support to help farmers in neighboring states adopt alternative methods to crop residue management.
The Delhi government remains committed to implementing all necessary measures to protect citizens from the harmful effects of air pollution while continuing to push for a comprehensive, multi-state solution to this annual environmental crisis.
