Today, air pollution was a hot topic in the Lok Sabha. MP Dr. Kirsan Namdev raised pressing questions about the poor air quality in Delhi-NCR directed at the central government. Responding to this, Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav confirmed the serious pollution levels in Delhi, especially during winter, but assured that many steps have been taken. Concerns were raised about the Delhi government's efficient utilization of central funds, and why operations under GRAP are continuing with just 50% staff, seen as a mockery by some.
Minister Bhupender Yadav highlighted the expected bright days for Delhi's air quality by 2025.
CAQM's Stringency
Under the 2021 Act, the center constituted the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), which has issued 95 statutory directions. Strict norms like prohibiting stubble burning have been introduced to curb pollution in Delhi-NCR. Monitoring review meetings have been ongoing, with four significant meetings from August to November.
Recent GRAP Changes
GRAP was further tightened on November 21. Stage 1 now mandates traffic management, power supply checks, and increased public transport. Stage 3 requires staggered timings for Delhi-NCR government offices. Initially part of Stage 3, the requirement to work with 50% staff, with others working from home, has been updated post-Supreme Court intervention.
Utilization of Funds
Under the National Clean Air Program (NCAP), Delhi's gap funding has been utilized through schemes like AMRUT and the Swachh Bharat Mission. Delhi has begun acquiring 14 mechanical road sweepers and is engaged in road paving and greening 2.6 hectares. NDMC has issued tenders for four anti-smog guns. However, the minister noted incomplete fund utilization and called for expedited review meetings.
Monitoring Progress and Awareness
Real-time AQI tracking is available via the SAMEER app and portal, issuing daily bulletins at 4 PM. The PRANA portal monitors 130 cities' progress. Complaints can be lodged through the app's grievance redressal system. GRAP stages activate based on weather forecasts from IMD and IITM.
Indicators of Improvement
From 110 good days in 2016 to 200 in 2025, the average AQI is the lowest in the past eight years, excluding the 2020 lockdown period. Challenges persist with stubble burning, vehicle emissions, and construction dust during winter. The center's inter-ministerial meeting emphasized crop residue management, with plans to plant one crore trees under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative.
The opposition argues that while the center's funds are utilized by the Delhi government, pollution remains unabated due to poor planning. On the first day of Parliament's winter session, discussions on pollution, alongside SIR, led to an adjournment. Are current efforts enough, or is stronger action required? Until the air clears, we must wait and see.
