Citizens Protest Toxic Air in Delhi
Hundreds of residents assembled at India Gate on Sunday to protest against the worsening air quality in the national capital, demanding urgent government action. The protest was triggered by the city entering the “red zone,” with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing 400 in several areas, indicating hazardous levels of pollution.
Rally and Demands
The demonstration saw participants holding placards reading “Right to Breathe” and “Clean Air Now.” Many asserted that data on pollution was being manipulated and accused the authorities of failing to enforce existing anti-smog measures. Several protesters, including students and parents, were detained by the Delhi Police after gathering in a high-security zone without prior permission, officials said.
Health and Policy Concerns
Urban health experts warn that such high pollution episodes can exacerbate respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, especially for children and the elderly. Protesters argued that temporary fixes are inadequate and called for long-term policy interventions such as strict vehicle emission enforcement, regulation of industrial pollution and farmer stubble burning controls. Government agencies acknowledged the poor air quality but maintained that full-scale restrictions under the city’s Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) have not been triggered because pollution levels, while severe, have not followed forecast trajectories.
