Delhi AQI Crisis Hits Record High, Sparks Urgent Parliamentary Debate

Congress MP Manickam Tagore moved an adjournment motion in the Lok Sabha on Monday. He demanded an immediate discussion on Delhi’s severe air pollution. Tagore called for declaring a national public health emergency for Delhi-NCR.The move comes as the capital recorded its worst air quality this season. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, the 24-hour average AQI hit 461. This falls into the ‘severe plus’ category, marking a public health disaster.

Pollution Levels Peak Across National Capital

Specific monitoring stations reported even more alarming figures. Ghazipur and Anand Vihar both recorded an AQI of 493. Areas like Barapullah and Sardar Patel Marg saw readings between 474 and 483.These levels max out the scale’s upper range in several locations. The toxic smog severely reduced visibility across the city. Authorities have invoked the strictest anti-pollution measures available.

Political Pressure Mounts for Government Action

Tagore’s motion highlights recurring negligence in dust mitigation. It cites official reports from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). The notice points to gaps in road maintenance and waste management as key factors.In response, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said the government is ready for a discussion. He stated the issue would be structured and taken up. This follows earlier concerns raised by Rahul Gandhi in Parliament about long-term health damage.The government has already activated Stage-IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This halts all construction and demolition work in the region. It also imposes strict entry rules for polluting trucks and commercial vehicles.Officials are considering further steps like work-from-home orders. The Winter Session of Parliament continues until December 19. The political debate now centers on declaring a full-scale national health emergency.

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The urgent parliamentary motion underscores the critical severity of Delhi’s AQI crisis. With pollution levels at a record peak, the demand for immediate, coordinated national action has never been louder. Public health hangs in the balance as lawmakers debate an emergency response.

Info at your fingertips

What is the current AQI in Delhi?

Delhi’s average AQI was 461, in the ‘severe plus’ category. Specific stations like Ghazipur reported levels as high as 493. These are the worst readings recorded this winter season.

What is GRAP Stage-IV?

Stage-IV is the highest alert under the Graded Response Action Plan. It immediately stops all construction and bans certain vehicles. The order aims to prevent further air quality deterioration.

What did the adjournment motion request?

MP Manickam Tagore asked Parliament to discuss the pollution crisis. He requested it be treated as a national public health emergency. The motion also sought permission for the Leader of the Opposition to speak on the issue.

How does this air quality affect health?

‘Severe plus’ AQI levels pose serious health risks to everyone. Exposure can aggravate heart and lung diseases. It is particularly dangerous for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions.

What causes such severe pollution in Delhi?

Authorities cite poor dust control and open waste burning as major factors. Vehicle emissions and weather conditions also contribute. The CAQM report noted evident gaps in road maintenance and mitigation efforts.