Gurugram: The air quality in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), including Gurugram, Faridabad, and Noida, has deteriorated to alarming levels. Social media platforms are flooded with posts capturing the grim reality of dense smog covering the region.
Can you see the 100 cr flats
Pollution is social equaliser pic.twitter.com/PHTsXenyXw---Advertisement---— Deepak Jain (@python_deck) November 18, 2024
Viral Video Sparks Debate on Pollution and Privilege
A video showing luxury apartments shrouded in smog went viral, garnering over 91,000 views. Sharing the clip, a user on X commented, “Can you see the 100 cr flats? Pollution is a social equaliser.” The post triggered diverse reactions:
- “Can’t see a single tree , that’s the reason you can’t see the billion dollar building.
- Another remarked, “If I have to breathe that air, it’s better if I do it in a 100 cr flat.”
- A third added, “Nature knows no bias.”
AQI Reaches Hazardous Levels
Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) paints a grim picture. Out of 38 air quality monitoring stations in Delhi, 21 recorded AQI levels of 490 or above, with several areas hitting the maximum level of 500. At 7 am on Tuesday, Delhi’s average AQI stood at 492, classified as ‘severe-plus.’
Localities like Alipur, Anand Vihar, Bawana, Narela, Pusa, and Sonia Vihar reported the worst air quality, pushing health risks to a critical level.
Schools Closed Amid Safety Concerns
Gurugram’s district administration has suspended all physical classes up to Class 12 until November 23 or further notice. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) also issued a ‘yellow’ alert for moderate to dense fog, further reducing visibility across the region.
Political Blame Game Over Pollution
Delhi Chief Minister Atishi criticized the BJP-led central government, accusing it of neglecting the worsening air pollution in North India. She expressed frustration at the lack of adequate measures to combat the crisis.
Public Outcry for Action
As smog blankets Delhi-NCR, citizens are urging the authorities to take immediate steps for cleaner air. The situation has highlighted the pressing need for sustainable solutions to address the environmental emergency.
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