Nitin Gadkari has expressed concern over the increasing pollution in Delhi, stating that he experiences allergies after spending just two days in the city. He acknowledged that the transport sector is responsible for approximately 40 percent of the capital's pollution.
New Delhi: The national capital, Delhi, is once again grappling with severe air pollution. Amidst the toxic smog, poor Air Quality, and increasing difficulties in breathing, the statement of Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has come into focus. Gadkari openly admitted that the pollution situation in Delhi is so bad that he experiences allergies and infections after staying here for only two days.
Gadkari Shares Personal Experience
Speaking at the launch of Uday Mahurkar's book, My Idea of Nation First – Redefining Unalloyed Nationalism, Nitin Gadkari shared his personal concerns regarding Delhi's air. He stated that he stays in Delhi for only two days, and during that time, he experiences infections.
Gadkari questioned why Delhi suffers so much from pollution. He said that this problem is not only related to health but is also deeply connected to the country's economy, energy policy, and development model.
40 Percent Pollution from Transport Sector
Nitin Gadkari clearly stated that the transport sector is a major cause of pollution in Delhi. He said that the transport sector contributes to about 40 percent of the total pollution.
He also acknowledged that he himself is the Transport Minister and therefore cannot evade this responsibility. Gadkari said that a permanent solution to the pollution problem is not possible until major changes are made in the transport system.
Gadkari raised a significant question by linking the issue of pollution to nationalism. He said that if there is true nationalism today, it lies in reducing imports and increasing exports. He explained that India spends around 22 lakh crore rupees annually on importing fossil fuels. He asked what kind of nationalism it is to spend so much money polluting our own country.
Emphasis on the Need for Alternative Fuels
The Union Minister said that the time has come for India to seriously move towards alternative fuels and biofuels. He questioned whether the country cannot become self-reliant in alternative fuels and Biofuel.
Gadkari has consistently advocated for electric vehicles, ethanol, hydrogen, and other clean fuels on various platforms. According to him, if India has to fight pollution and reduce foreign dependence, a major change in the transport sector is necessary.
Toxic Smog Wreaks Havoc in Delhi-NCR
Amidst Nitin Gadkari's statement, the pollution situation in Delhi-NCR appeared to worsen. On Wednesday, a thick layer of toxic smog enveloped many areas of the capital. Images emerging from the ITO area clearly showed the severity of the situation.
Visibility on the roads decreased, and complaints of eye irritation and difficulty in breathing began to increase. The situation became even more dangerous, especially for the elderly, children, and those already suffering from illnesses.
AQI at Very Poor Levels
According to the Central Pollution Control Board CPCB, the Air Quality Index around the ITO area in Delhi was recorded at 374. This is classified as 'extremely poor'. Pollution at this level can cause serious health problems if it persists for a long time, including asthma, lung disease, heart problems, and a negative impact on the immune system.
GRAP Stage-IV Implemented
Considering the increasing pollution, the Air Quality Management Commission CAQM has implemented all strict measures under GRAP Stage-IV in Delhi-NCR. This includes a ban on construction activities, restrictions on diesel vehicles, and the closure of schools. The government's aim is to prevent pollution from increasing further, but experts believe this is only a temporary solution.
Pollution Issue Raised in Parliament
The opposition has also demanded a discussion on Delhi's pollution in Parliament. From Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi to Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi, all have appealed to the government to take this issue seriously.
