India News
The alarming levels of air pollution in Delhi have raised significant health and environmental concerns. According to meteorological authorities, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the national capital has surpassed the critical 500 mark, indicating hazardous conditions. Adding to the crisis, dense smog has engulfed the city, further deteriorating visibility and air quality, leaving residents battling severe health issues such as eye irritation, throat pain, and respiratory discomfort.
Reacting to the dire situation, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor criticized the central government for its inaction. Tharoor questioned, “Should Delhi continue to remain the nation's capital under such circumstances?”
Highlighting the gravity of the issue, Tharoor pointed out that Delhi has become one of the most polluted cities in the world. He stated that the city’s pollution levels are four times higher than safe limits, and five times worse than Dhaka, the second-most polluted city. Despite the recurring pattern of toxic air during the winter months, Tharoor accused the central government of neglecting the issue.
Tharoor remarked that Delhi remains uninhabitable from November to January, with living conditions during the rest of the year barely tolerable. He questioned whether it is feasible to continue designating Delhi as the nation’s capital given the deteriorating environmental conditions. His comments have sparked widespread discussion online, with many debating the viability of Delhi as the administrative hub of India.
The latest AQI readings in Delhi-NCR have reached 494 as of Tuesday morning, marking the season’s worst air quality. Many areas recorded AQI levels touching 500, categorized as "severe plus." The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert due to the dense smog persisting for a second consecutive day. This environmental crisis has intensified calls for immediate and long-term measures to address Delhi’s hazardous air pollution levels.
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