Delhi Residents Demand Long-Term Solutions as Pollution Remains 'Very Poor'

New Delhi, November 12: Residents in Delhi have urged the administration to address the alarming pollution levels in the national capital, demanding long-term solutions as the Air Quality Index (AQI) has remained in the 'very poor' category for the second consecutive week post-Diwali.

Several areas in the city were shrouded in smog on Tuesday morning, with many residents complaining of difficulty in breathing due to the deteriorating air quality. According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI in Delhi was recorded at 355 as of 8 am today, categorized as 'very poor.'

As per SAFAR India, different parts of the city recorded varying AQI levels: Ashok Vihar at 390, Dwarka Sector 8 at 367, DTU at 366, Jahangiripuri at 417, Lodhi Road at 313, Mundka at 404, Najafgarh at 355, and Narela at 356. The Anand Vihar area saw its AQI dip to the 'severe' category, with a recorded level of 403, while areas like Pratapganj, Pusa, RK Puram, Rohini, Shadipur, and Vivek Vihar also reported high AQI levels ranging from 320 to 415.

An AQI reading between 200 and 300 is considered 'poor,' 301 to 400 'very poor,' 401 to 450 'severe,' and above 450 'severe plus.'

On Monday, the Supreme Court emphasized that the right to live in a pollution-free atmosphere is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. A bench comprising Justices Abhay S. Oka and Augustine George Masih stated that no religion advocates activities that lead to pollution. The court questioned the authorities on their failure to implement the ban on firecrackers during Diwali and remarked that unchecked use of firecrackers compromises citizens' right to health.

"The right to live in a pollution-free atmosphere is a fundamental right of every citizen, protected by Article 21 of the Constitution of India. Prima facie, we believe that no religion encourages activities that create pollution or endanger public health. If firecrackers are used irresponsibly, it affects the fundamental right to health of the citizens," said the bench.