Delhi Transport Minister Flags Pollution Impact, Says He Gets Infections
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has highlighted the serious air pollution situation in Delhi, saying the transport sector contributes around 40% of emissions and describing personal health effects after spending time in the city. His comments came at a book launch event in New Delhi on Tuesday as the national capital continues to struggle with poor air quality levels.
Minister links transport to air pollution
Gadkari acknowledged that the transport sector is a major contributor to Delhi’s air pollution and noted that he develops infections after staying in the city for two days due to the poor air quality. He described the pollution as a significant public health concern and said reducing emission sources, especially from vehicles, should be a priority. The minister also questioned India’s heavy reliance on fossil fuels and urged a shift toward alternative and biofuels to cut emissions and import costs.
Context of Delhi’s air quality
Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has frequently been in the very poor to severe range during winter months, driven by vehicle emissions, industrial pollutants, dust, and weather conditions that trap pollutants close to the ground. Residents have reported respiratory irritation, and authorities have implemented pollution control measures to try to improve conditions.
Calls for cleaner fuels and action
In his remarks, Gadkari emphasised the need for accelerated adoption of cleaner fuel technologies, including electric vehicles, biofuels and improved public transport systems. He framed efforts to reduce pollution and fossil fuel dependence as both an environmental and a national economic concern.
Public and political response
Reactions to the minister’s statement have varied, with some welcoming the acknowledgment of transport’s role in pollution and others noting that broader and faster action is needed to address chronic air quality issues in the capital. Delhi’s pollution challenges remain a key public health issue as winter air quality woes persist.
