Citizens Demand Action: Delhi's Environmental Concerns Mount As Elections Approach

Delhi grapples with the perennial crisis of breathing in filth. While air pollution remains a year-long ordeal, it catapults into headlines during winters, turning the National Capital into a gas chamber. The 22-kilometer stretch of the Yamuna River, a toxic drain, stands as India's most polluted river, further exacerbating the environmental woes. Despite Chath Puja highlighting the issues of air pollution and Yamuna's contamination, these concerns seem to have slipped from the priority list. Recently, Delhiites endured "poor" air quality for four consecutive days, attributing it to dry conditions and dust. Amidst this, political blame games emerge, with Congress accusing the Centre of negligence while promising solutions if voted to power. However, the glaring question remains: amidst the political clamor, where lies the discourse on environmental crises? Environmentalists like Chandra Bhushan highlight the roots of Delhi's pollution, including thermal power plants, chemical pollution, deforestation, and illegal activities like mining and construction. The silence surrounding issues such as garbage dumping grounds like Bhalswa, Ghazipur, and Okhla underscores the political apathy towards citizens' concerns. As Delhiites clamor for attention to these pressing matters, the looming question is: who will heed their call amidst the political din?