Delhi CM flags severe impact of stubble-burning smoke on capital’s air quality

Expressing concern over rising air pollution, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Monday said the national capital’s air quality is being heavily affected by regional factors, particularly the smoke generated from stubble burning.

Speaking at the 32nd meeting of the Northern Zonal Council held in Faridabad, she said states like Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh have shown positive progress in crop-residue management in recent years, but the volume of smoke coming from Punjab remains significantly high.

Advertisement

The Delhi Chief Minister expressed hope that all neighbouring states, especially Punjab and Haryana, would extend stronger cooperation to ensure cleaner air for Delhi.

She also highlighted Delhi’s push for a fully electric bus fleet and urged NCR cities to accelerate their transition to electric buses, taxis, and autos to bring about a substantial reduction in pollution.

Speaking on efforts to clean the Yamuna, the Chief Minister said both the Delhi and Haryana governments have been taking important steps to improve the river’s condition. She appreciated the cooperation extended by the Haryana Government and Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini.

Gupta emphasised the need to trap all drains falling into the Yamuna, complete sewer-line and desilting work wherever necessary, and ensure that only treated water from modern STPs flows into the river.

She reiterated the need for effective management of major drains entering Delhi from Bahadurgarh, Jhajjar, and Gurugram.

On the issue of drinking water supply, the Chief Minister stressed the urgency of renewing the 1994 water-sharing agreement. Considering Delhi’s growing requirements, she reiterated the city’s request to increase its share of Yamuna water from 980 MGD to 1250 MGD.

Gupta also urged the fast-tracking of the Renukaji, Lakhwar, and Kishau dam projects so that Delhi receives adequate water and other states benefit from the expected electricity generation.

She further requested that the responsibility for maintaining the Munak Canal and the ITO barrage be handed over to Delhi and that water assessment for the city be carried out at the point where the canal enters its territory.