Political discourse on pollution not enough

The detrimental effects of pollution especially of air, has become a matter of great concern in recent times. It is saddening to hear that 22 cities of India are among the 30 most-polluted cities in the world and instances of premature deaths, reducing lifespans due to the direct effect of air pollution are being reported. The recent spell of air pollution in Delhi has left many affected, and an amicable solution doesn’t seem possible in the near future. It is frustrating to see how issues as serious as this, where millions of lives are under threat, is being politicised and governments, both at the Centre and in the states have failed miserably to safeguard the citizens.

A prime example of the political unwillingness can be seen in the fact that no discussion on air pollution and steps to curb it were conducted in the recent Parliament session, but working days were wasted fighting on irrelevant issues. The recent elections in Delhi were fought on religious grounds, CAA and the NRC, when pollution should have taken centre stage. I seriously hope that people in power realise that issues such as air pollution should be dealt with as a national emergency and people from all walks of life must cut across professions and party lines to take stringent steps and control this menace and safeguard the lives of millions of citizens.

Dr Rithvik Golla,

27, Plot 8, Vahininagar, Sikh Road,

Secunderabad-500009