The air pollution situation in Delhi has reached an alarming scale, with the city being shrouded under a thick layer of smog and air quality labeled as ‘very poor’.
On December 12, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju reiterated that the central government is ready to have a detailed discussion on air pollution at parliament. This highlights a very unusual consensus among all political parties on an issue that impacts so many lives.
Government Readiness to Discuss
Rijiju reiterated that it has been the constant endeavor of the government that it be willing to have a serious discussion on issues that are pressing.
Rijiju added, “Since day one, the government has been ready to have consideration on suggestions made by all members, including the principal opposition.” It could be noted that Rijiju made this statement at a time when political polarization with regards to environmental matters continues unabated within India.
What Opposition Demands
The Leader of the Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, appealed to the government to have an intense and looking-forward discussion on air pollution. Gandhi said that due to air pollution, large cities are facing extremely poisonous air.
As a result, large numbers of people are suffering from lung ailments, cancer, and respiratory problems among senior citizens. This shows that not only developing nations but even more advanced ones are struggling with air pollution campaign.
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Bipartisan Consensus
Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also reiterated demands for a full discussion on it at the parliamentary level. She pointed out that air pollution impacts people every year and insisted that an effective strategy needs to be drawn up.
Both sides, be it the ruling and opposition parties, were unanimous on the fact that combating air pollution needs collective efforts.
Way Forward of Air Conditions in Delhi
Despite the fact that air conditions remain a challenge to Delhi, active debate on the issue within parliament could signal an implementation process. It is recommended that there be tight regulation and promotion of clean energy.
There is an historic political consensus on the issue and an unusual chance to make collective government efforts on one of India’s most pressing issues.
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Disclaimer: This article provides an overview of Delhi’s air pollution debate and does not substitute official government reports or statements.