Smog Crisis in Delhi: Politics and Pollution Clash Amidst Stubble Burning Debacle

Delhi faced severe air pollution with AQI above 300, partly due to stubble burning in Punjab. BJP leaders protested against Punjab's CM for inaction, citing data contrasting Delhi government's claims. They criticized AAP's election promises as unmet, blaming lack of coordination between Delhi and Punjab.

On Tuesday morning, a dense layer of smog engulfed India's National Capital, as parts of Delhi reported air quality in the 'very poor' category with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) over 300. Areas like Anand Vihar and Aya Nagar registered alarming AQI levels of 317 and 312 respectively, while Chandni Chowk fared comparatively better at 191, classified as 'moderate'.

Delhi BJP officials on Monday spotlighted 108 incidents of stubble burning in Punjab, staging a protest against Punjab's Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann over air pollution concerns at Kapurthala House. The BJP delegation sought a meeting with Mann to submit a memorandum but was unsuccessful. Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva emphasized the high number of stubble-burning cases in Punjab on October 26, contrasting it with Delhi government claims blaming neighboring states.

Accusations flew as BJP pointed out the growing air pollution crisis in Delhi, now considered the most polluted capital city worldwide. Despite promises, AAP-led governments in Punjab and Delhi were accused of political maneuvering rather than taking concrete action. BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj criticized AAP's unfulfilled electoral promises and lack of dialogue with Punjab's leadership on the issue, questioning the absence of a coherent action plan.

(With inputs from agencies.)