Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Orders Crackdown on Pollution Violators Amid Severe Air Quality Crisis
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta held a high-level meeting to address the worsening air pollution crisis, with the city's AQI reaching very poor to severe levels. She directed the formation of special teams to take strict action against polluting industries, vehicles, and garbage burning. The government is intensifying measures such as water sprinkling and road cleaning to reduce pollution in hotspots. Authorities remain committed to controlling pollution and preparing for winter impacts.
Delhi is experiencing a severe air pollution crisis, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 309 as of 4 pm and areas like Burari and Wazirpur in the 'severe' pollution category. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta convened a high-level meeting emphasizing zero tolerance for negligence in pollution control and immediate implementation of stringent measures. Multiple teams are being formed to take targeted action against industrial units and vehicles responsible for pollution, including shutting down non-compliant entities and seizing polluting vehicles. Efforts to curb garbage burning are intensified, with legal action and fines for violators. Pollution control measures such as continuous water sprinkling, mechanical dust control, and thorough cleaning by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi are underway, especially in pollution hotspots. Additional support like heaters for night-duty security personnel during harsh winter conditions is being considered. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to pollution control and coordination with multiple agencies to improve air quality. Overall, authorities are stepping up enforcement and preventive measures to address the deteriorating air quality and mitigate health risks as pollution is predicted to worsen further into the severe category in the coming days.