The AAP government’s odd-even plan has garnered
much controversy than goodwill. For those who are new to this rule, let me
explain. As Delhi’s pollution is crossing permissible limits towards hazardous
levels, Kejriwal decided to introduce this plan. From January 1, odd and even
numbered cars will be allowed on alternative days. The government hopes this
will reduce the pollution levels by at least 40 %. Well, hopes are good as long
as they are backed by plans. The government has asked Delhi Transport Corporation
(DTC) to add buses, which will eventually take 4-6 months. The Delhi Metro Rail
Corporation (DMRC) has been asked to add extra coaches, which will also take
time.
However, I am not here to discuss the pros and
cons of the controversial odd-even plan...much talked about and written about!
But, I would like to talk about what’s wrong with the Delhi government
targeting only vehicles. Of course, vehicular pollution contributes to around
3/4th of the total pollution in Delhi. But industrial pollutants are equal
culprits. While the talk of shutting down industries in certain areas has been
doing the rounds, I saw a gardener burning a heap of dry leaves along with
plastic bottles, cups and polythene bags on a Sunday morning. In October, there
were reports of farmers burning crop residue in different parts of Delhi NCR and the
pollution has increased seven fold since then. How are these people supposed to
be aware of the ongoing war (though late) against air pollution in the National
Capital? The alarm is ringing as Anand Vihar’s (East Delhi) pollution touched
1200, 24 times more than the permissible limit, which might cause irreversible
lung damage.
Most of the people burning garbage are those
who are more concerned with filling their family’s stomachs than fighting air
pollution. The lack of awareness is
compensated by the government’s lack of personalised messaging. Putting up
hoardings, introducing radio and television advertisements are not going to
spread awareness amongst the garbage-dumping group. People are still burning
trash, evidence shows! If the government is serious about fighting air
pollution (before its too late), it has to spread the message, keeping in mind
specific target groups. The garbage-burning group can be convinced through
door-to-door messaging. I am sure they’ll think twice before setting fire to
any heap of trash.
Back to the odd-even rule, other than the
public transport menace, we can fight air pollution only when citizens
cooperate. The government of the day cannot be expected to work alone. While some
people’s concerns are genuine about the lack of public transport, some are just
not ready to leave their comfort of chauffeur-driven cars. And we blame the
government for the mess we’re partly responsible for. Kejriwal has promised to
review the rule after 15 days of it being implemented. Well, let’s see how it
goes and meanwhile, people who already travel by metros and buses, get ready
for more dhakkas.
