Following persistent concerns expressed by Opposition members in the Parliament on declining air quality and the efficacy of current mitigation efforts, the Lok Sabha is scheduled to hold a thorough discussion on the rising air pollution crisis in Delhi and surrounding areas on Thursday.
At 5 p.m., Union Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav will answer questions, concerns, and recommendations in the Lok Sabha, indicating the government’s intention to respond to growing criticism and lay out its plan to reduce dangerous pollution levels.
A number of MPs pressed the Center on its readiness and long-term strategy to address severe air pollution, and the subject dominated Parliamentary proceedings.
Dr. Kanimozhi NVN Somu, a member of the DMK Rajya Sabha, asked if the government was providing funding for the installation of large-scale air purifiers in regions with severe pollution.
In response, Yadav agreed that air pollution is “a big problem” and acknowledged the gravity of the situation during the argument.
He emphasized that residents must be aware of Air Quality Index (AQI) readings and their health effects, underscoring the significance of public awareness and enforcement.
The minister stated that the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) is actively implementing air quality improvement programs in 130 cities nationwide, and that the government is working on both awareness and enforcement procedures.
Guidelines to reduce harmful industrial emissions and close enforcement gaps have been released, Yadav said Parliament, stressing the importance of urban local governments in guaranteeing compliance at the local level.
The minister stated that starting April 2, 2025, the construction and demolition (C&D) waste management legislation have conferred more stringent authority over pollution resulting from construction activities.
He pointed out that the deployment of anti-smog cannons is now required for projects that span more than 20,000 square meters.
He added that in order to stop uncontrolled dumping and dust pollution, the Center has directed the Delhi government to set aside certain areas for the disposal of construction and demolition waste.
In the meantime, the ‘No PUC, No Fuel’ rule will take effect on Thursday as part of the Delhi government’s new initiatives to reduce air pollution in the nation’s capital.
Additionally, starting on Thursday, only cars registered outside of Delhi that comply with BS-VI regulations will be permitted to enter the city; trucks transporting building supplies will still be prohibited. According to GRAP regulations, construction work is still forbidden, and violators will face severe consequences.
The Delhi administration has announced a comprehensive set of emergency and long-term measures aimed at vehicular emissions, dust, garbage, and traffic congestion as the nation’s capital continues to suffer from extreme pollution.
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