Dozens rallied in New Delhi as PM2.5 levels hit 13 times WHO limits, demanding serious action on pollution causing millions of deaths
NEW DELHI: Dozens of protesters rallied in New Delhi on Sunday demanding government action on toxic air pollution.
A thick haze containing dangerous microparticles shrouded the Indian capital during the demonstration.
Parents brought their children, who wore masks and waved placards with messages about breathing difficulties.
New Delhi’s metropolitan region of 30 million residents is regularly ranked among the world’s most polluted capitals.
Acrid smog blankets the skyline each winter when cooler air traps pollutants close to the ground.
This creates a deadly mix of emissions from crop burning, factories and heavy traffic.
PM2.5 levels sometimes rise to 60 times the United Nations’ daily health limits.
“Today I am here just as a mother,” said protester Namrata Yadav, who came with her son.
PM2.5 levels around India Gate where protesters assembled exceeded 13 times WHO recommendations.
“Year after year, it is the same story but there is no solution,” said lawyer Tanvi Kusum.
Government initiatives have failed to make a noticeable impact on pollution levels.
Partial restrictions on fossil fuel-powered transport and water trucks spraying mist have proven inadequate.
“Pollution is cutting our lives,” said a young woman who claimed to be speaking for Delhi.
A Lancet Planetary Health study estimated 3.8 million pollution-linked deaths in India between 2009 and 2019.
The United Nations children’s agency warns polluted air increases children’s respiratory infection risks.
As sunset approached, police bundled several activists into a bus and seized their placards.
Authorities argued protesters lacked proper permission for the demonstration location.
One half-torn placard read “I just want to breathe” as the confrontation unfolded. – AFP
