Delhi Battles Pollution: Cooperation Called with UP for Cleaner Air

Delhi CM Atishi highlights buses from other states as key pollution sources in Anand Vihar. Plans to work with Uttar Pradesh to tackle issues at their bus depots. Consistent smog control measures like water-sprinkling are in place; Delhi also targets effluent discharges affecting the Yamuna River.

Delhi Chief Minister Atishi has identified interstate buses as a major source of pollution in the Anand Vihar area. In response, the Delhi government plans to cooperate with the Uttar Pradesh government on implementing anti-pollution measures at nearby bus depots.

During a site inspection with Environment Minister Gopal Rai, Atishi emphasized Anand Vihar's location on the Delhi-UP border, where air quality index levels are among the highest. She pointed out that while Delhi uses CNG and electric buses, diesel buses from UP contribute significantly to pollution, calling for joint efforts to adopt control measures.

Additionally, Atishi addressed pollution concerns in the Yamuna River, attributing the issue to untreated effluent releases by UP and Haryana. As part of mitigation, Delhi is employing food-based silicone defoamers and conducting a defoaming drive. Minister Rai reiterated the need for UP to adopt pollution control strategies, particularly around bus depots.

(With inputs from agencies.)