Delhi smog crisis deepens as politicians play blame game
As Delhi chokes, the lack of urgency among political leaders underscores the need for a unified, decisive response to protect public health.
Delhi, the national capital, is choking under a thick blanket of smog, with air pollution levels reaching “severe” categories and crippling daily life. As the Air Quality Index (AQI) hit above 500 in parts of the city on Monday, citizens grapple with unbreathable air, flight disruptions, and traffic gridlocks. Amidst the crisis, political parties are engaged in a blame game, leaving the public frustrated and helpless.
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Delhi’s air pollution has brought the city to a standstill. Schools have been forced to shut down, with classes moving online. Offices have closed or switched to remote work as employees struggle with burning eyes, respiratory issues, and constant discomfort. The toxic air has led to the cancellation of several flights due to low visibility, while traffic jams clog the roads as commuters move slowly through the thick haze.
For the city’s 30 million residents, stepping outside is hazardous. Hospitals are reporting a spike in patients with breathing difficulties, while pharmacies are witnessing a surge in sales of face masks and inhalers. Residents are questioning whether clean air is now a luxury rather than a basic right.
Political Blame Game Intensifies
As the crisis unfolds, political leaders from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which governs Delhi, and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), in power at the Centre and neighbouring states, are locked in a bitter war of words.
AAP leaders blame stubble burning in Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh—states governed or influenced by the BJP—for the smog. In response, BJP leaders accused the Delhi government of poor urban planning and ineffective policies to control vehicular and industrial pollution.
The finger-pointing between the two parties has done little to alleviate the crisis, leaving citizens angry and disillusioned.
Delhi Citizens Demand Accountability
Residents of Delhi are demanding urgent action instead of political posturing. “It feels like our lives don’t matter to the politicians,” said Neha Sharma, a tech professional. “Every winter, we face this smog, and every year, the governments do nothing except shift blame.”
Street vendors, construction workers, and daily wage labourers, who must work outdoors regardless of air quality, are the worst affected. “We can’t afford to stop working, but this air is making us sick,” said Rajesh, a vendor in South Delhi.
No Relief in Sight
The Supreme Court of India has repeatedly emphasised that clean air is a fundamental right and called for action. However, despite measures like halting construction and banning heavy vehicles in the city, the air quality remains dire. Experts warn that unless long-term strategies are implemented, the smog crisis will continue to plague the city.
As Delhi chokes, the lack of urgency among political leaders underscores the need for a unified, decisive response to protect public health. For now, citizens are left to fend for themselves, struggling to breathe in a city where every breath feels toxic.
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