Messed Up Air in Delhi

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.