Anurag Dhanda: Delhi awoke to another toxic air day as the Air Quality Index (AQI) dropped into the “severe” category, leading to panic among residents and health experts. Dense smog smothered parts of the national capital, creating poor visibility and aggravating respiratory issues among sensitive populations.
With deteriorating air, the political response increased on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) side, where they called for even stricter and more immediate interventions.
Anurag Dhanda Critiques the Government’s Response
AAP official Anurag Dhanda launched a blistering critique of the Assert, suggesting that we readied ourselves for the failure of the city’s pollution-control strategy. Dhanda suggested that Delhi chokes every year, and the people in charge of region coordination and long-term solutions for air quality have failed to implement sound and sustainable pollution control measures.
Dhanda reiterated that the recurring cycles of severe pollution are a symptom of deeper systemic issues, rather than seasonal variability. He added that the people deserve accountability, transparency, and real action rather than annual blame games. His remarks added heat to the current political discourse around the responsibility of Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and the central government for pollution control-related accountability.
Demand for Immediate Intervention
Citing overflowing health dangers, Dhanda asked the government to step up emergency measures like stopping construction, using anti-smog guns, increasing the frequency of public transportation, and strengthening enforcement of severe actions against illegal waste burning.
He also continued to argue that all action in the NCR must be coordinated. Single actions, piecemeal, cannot lead to substantial change. Dhanda stressed the need for a joint “pollution war room” that encompasses all bordering states, along with authorities from the Centre, all based on real-time air quality measurements, and interventions based on data.
Health Experts Give Warning of Increased Cases in Medical Jeremiad
Hospitals in Delhi have seen an increase in respiratory complaints, especially among children, senior citizens, and asthma sufferers. Doctors are warning that continuing the intense AQI for long periods of time can lead to chronic breathing disorders, strain on the heart, and impaired lung function. Public health advice has recommended limiting outdoor activities, wearing masks where possible, and using air purifiers at home and work.
Political Tensions Erupt as Residents Seek Relief Again
As pollution soars to tragic levels yet again, it is news that political parties are blaming each other for the crisis, while residents are seeking relief, given the persistent levels of smog each year. As pending winter weather is expected to worsen conditions, calls for better governance and plans for the environment long-term grow.
