The article discusses the ongoing air pollution crisis in New Delhi, where smog severely affects the health of its 34 million residents. Protests have emerged, as citizens express frustration over inadequate governmental action to resolve pollution issues, despite plans dating back to 1996. The problem is exacerbated by cold air trapping smoke from various sources, including fireworks and traffic.
The Delhi government, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), recently attempted a costly cloud-seeding operation to clear the air, but experts revealed that it was largely unsuccessful due to insufficient moisture. While the government promotes initiatives like installing anti-smog guns, critics argue that these efforts amount to temporary solutions rather than addressing the root causes of pollution.
The situation has been linked to significant health impacts, including reduced life expectancy, especially among children, with health experts calling for a national public health emergency declaration. Residents have reported visible pollution damages, such as discoloration of historical sites like the Red Fort, and have staged protests to demand real change. Despite governmental promises and emergency measures being implemented as pollution levels spike, frustrations continue as citizens feel unheard and unaddressed in their plight for cleaner air.
Source link
