Delhi’s Air Pollution Crisis
Shehzad Poonawalla’s Accusations
In New Delhi, the air pollution levels have risen significantly, with toxic foam visible on the Yamuna River. Shehzad Poonawalla, the national spokesperson for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has criticized former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for the deteriorating air quality. Poonawalla stated, “Today, once again, the AQI is crossing very hazardous levels in Delhi. It’s 400 plus in some areas. Delhi has become a gas chamber and for this Arvind Kejriwal is responsible.” He accused Kejriwal of failing to address pollution sources like vehicular emissions, road dust, and biomass burning over the past decade.
Current Pollution Levels
The air and water in Delhi have become ‘poisonous’, according to Poonawalla, who also criticized the Delhi government’s ban on Diwali fireworks. The air quality in Delhi has dropped to the ‘very poor’ category, with an AQI of 385 recorded. Areas like Anand Vihar, Kalkaji, Nehru Place, and Akshardham Temple are experiencing thick fog due to the pollution.
Efforts to Combat Pollution
In response to the crisis, Delhi’s Environment Minister Gopal Rai has launched the “Red Light On-Gaadi Off” campaign. This initiative encourages drivers to turn off their vehicle engines at red lights to help reduce pollution.
Doubts Revealed
Air Pollution -: Air pollution is when the air becomes dirty and harmful to breathe because of smoke, dust, and other pollutants. It can make people sick and is bad for the environment.
Toxic Foam -: Toxic foam is a harmful, bubbly substance that can form on water bodies like rivers due to pollution. It is dangerous for both humans and animals that come into contact with it.
Yamuna River -: The Yamuna River is a major river in India that flows through Delhi. It is an important water source but often gets polluted due to waste and chemicals.
BJP -: BJP stands for Bharatiya Janata Party, which is one of the major political parties in India. They have leaders and members who speak on various issues.
Shehzad Poonawalla -: Shehzad Poonawalla is a spokesperson for the BJP. A spokesperson is someone who talks to the public and media on behalf of a political party.
Arvind Kejriwal -: Arvind Kejriwal is a politician in India who was the Chief Minister of Delhi. He is a member of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).
Vehicular Emissions -: Vehicular emissions are the gases and smoke that come out of vehicles like cars and buses. These emissions can pollute the air and are harmful to health.
Road Dust -: Road dust is the dust that comes from roads, often due to traffic and construction. It can mix with the air and contribute to pollution.
Air Quality Index -: The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a number that shows how clean or polluted the air is. A high AQI means the air is very polluted and can be harmful to breathe.
Gopal Rai -: Gopal Rai is a politician and the Environment Minister in Delhi. He works on issues related to the environment and pollution.
“Red Light On-Gaadi Off” campaign -: The “Red Light On-Gaadi Off” campaign encourages drivers to turn off their vehicle engines when waiting at red traffic lights. This helps reduce pollution from vehicles.