Delhi Environment Minister Apologises for Severe Pollution, Says Issue Can’t Be Fixed in Months
Minister apologizes, blames predecessors for Delhi pollution crisis.
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa issued a public apology to residents on Tuesday regarding the persistent severe air pollution crisis, acknowledging that no elected government could fully resolve the issue within nine to ten months. During a press briefing, Sirsa emphasized the complexity of the problem inherited from the previous administration, while asserting that the current government is implementing measures leading to gradual improvements in air quality.
Sirsa criticized the former Aam Aadmi Party government for leaving behind what he described as a longstanding pollution challenge, claiming superior performance in daily reductions of the Air Quality Index. He noted that Delhi's AQI had remained in the severe category for three consecutive days before marginally improving to very poor on Tuesday, with Central Pollution Control Board data recording levels around 378 in the morning, down from higher severe readings previously.
The minister outlined several enforcement actions, including a ban on entry of non-Delhi private vehicles below BS-VI standards and restrictions on transporting building materials within the city. Additional measures involve denying fuel to vehicles lacking valid pollution under control certificates, with camera monitoring at fuel stations, and imposition of penalties totaling Rs 9 crore on polluting industries.
Also Read: Delhi Bans Coal and Firewood Based Tandoors Amid Severe Air Pollution
Further initiatives include distribution of 10,000 heaters to curb emissions from wood burning, regulations on DJ usage at banquet halls, reduction of landfill site heights by 15 meters, and reclamation of 45 acres of land. Sirsa highlighted the identification of 62 pollution hotspots, with 13 showing reduced levels compared to the previous year, alongside the deployment of 3,427 electric buses and formation of a scientific committee for ongoing consultations.
Accusing the opposition of diverting attention through protests, Sirsa reiterated that pollution levels have improved monthly under the current administration, though complete control remains unachievable in the short term. He stressed commitment to daily interventions, positioning these efforts as more effective than those of the prior regime.
Also Read: Lionel Messi Gets Team India Jersey and Cricket Bat from Jay Shah in Delhi
