We want constructive & not cosmetic measures to save Delhi from the grip of severe air pollution.

Delhi is facing an extremely grim situation due to hazardous + air pollution across the city. Officially reported AQI levels have crossed 465, i.e. over 30 times higher than WHO standards. Unofficially, and visibly, the AQI appears to be 60-80 times above safe limits. Despite this alarming crisis, authorities continue to play cosmetic GRAP measures across Delhi NCR.

The lives of crores of citizens are at serious risk due to life threatening medical emergency, yet there is no decisive action such as implementing vehicular odd-even measures to curb emissions. Schools continue in hybrid mode, masks are still not mandatory, and there is no consideration of a short lockdown to protect public health.

At the very least, the government could announce free Metro and DTC services and strongly discourage the use of private vehicles. Shockingly, no visible or constructive steps are being taken to safeguard the health of Delhiites.

"We want constructive & not cosmetic measures to save Delhi from the grip of severe air pollution", says B S Vohra, an Environment Activist, and President of the East Delhi RWAs Joint Front

While doctors advise residents to leave the city and courts shift to virtual hearings to avoid severe air pollution, offices and markets remain open in the name of protecting the economy. Water sprinklers are reportedly used near monitoring stations to downplay pollution severity, yet no advisories urge citizens to stay indoors. Meanwhile, air purifiers, now a basic necessity rather than a luxury, continue to attract an 18% GST.

Those in positions of power appear to lack a clear understanding of AQI, while the authorities tasked with its administration seem preoccupied with routine formalities rather than effective implementation.

The situation is dire, and superficial measures are insufficient to prevent serious respiratory and other health emergencies. There is a clear absence of political will and administrative resolve, making any meaningful improvement unlikely. Instead, authorities appear to be relying on seasonal changes and shifting wind patterns to provide temporary relief.