The Yamuna River in the Kalindi Kunj area of Delhi on Saturday saw the emergence of toxic foam, which has been raising the pollution levels in Delhi.
Heavy pollution, with the content forming a thick foam in the already untreated sewage and industrial waste-saddled river. It is a grim reminder of Delhi’s pollution crisis amid deteriorating air quality in the capital.
With the foam in the yamuna river, even the quality of air degraded on Saturday in Delhi. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, at 8 am, the AQI in the capital city reached 226 thus coming under the ‘Poor‘ category.
In some areas, the level of pollution was much higher. The AQI was recorded as 334 in Akshardham and Anand Vihar, falling under the ‘Very Poor‘ category. In AIIMS, bordering areas, the AQI was 253, which fell into the ‘Poor’ category. At India Gate, it was 251.
The CPCB explains that when the AQI falls in the ‘Poor’ category, it may cause breathing discomfort to most people on prolonged exposure. If exposed for a considerable period, in the ‘Very Poor’ category, it causes respiratory illness.
A resident of the locality, Ashish Kumar Meena said the level of pollution has increased a lot in the last two days. “It has caused throat irritation, problems in breathing, and is causing discomfort to the eyes. Pollution levels would increase further after Diwali. The government needs to act now.”
He said authorities should fine those who burn the substance because it most affects people with respiratory problems.
Another resident suggested promoting public transportation to reduce pollution. “More people should use public transport or carpool. This would help decrease pollution in the city,” he said.
Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai also joined in to acknowledge the worsening air quality. He further said that during winter, pollution usually increases. He added that in several areas such as Wazirpur, Mundka, and Rohini, AQI crossed 300, indicating severe pollution. Rai informed that he has instructed local authorities to identify the sources causing the deterioration in air quality.
“The BJP government in UP, Haryana, Rajasthan, and at the center is sleeping. They have no right to comment on Delhi’s pollution problem,” Rai bemoaned in a press conference.
The citizens of Delhi are facing increasing challenges due to air and water pollution, and urgent action should be taken against the environmental crisis.
ANI
