Delhi, the bustling capital of India, is no stranger to the smog menace that engulfs the city, leaving its residents gasping for fresh air. The Delhi administration has been grappling with this issue for years, struggling to find effective solutions. However, it appears that the Delhi High Court has taken a stern stance on this matter.
In a recent development, the Delhi High Court conveyed a clear message to the forest department – they bear responsibility for the air quality in the capital and must take proactive measures to combat this pressing issue.
Justice Jasmeet Singh presided over a case that dealt with the establishment of an alternative forest in Delhi and the urgent need to fill vacant positions within the forest department. In a firm statement, he remarked that the city’s children were suffering from asthma as a direct consequence of inhaling polluted air. Furthermore, he raised concerns about encroachments occurring in the ridge area, which is considered the lungs of the national capital, happening “right under the nose” of government officials.
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Addressing the principal secretary of the forest department, the court emphasized the urgency of filling these vacancies, urging them to do so on a “war footing.” The message was crystal clear – the forest department plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the air quality index (AQI) in Delhi improves, and they must fulfill this obligation.
The court expressed its deep concern over the deteriorating air quality in Delhi. It lamented the fact that children were experiencing breathing problems, and during the winter months of December and January, people had to leave the city to seek cleaner air elsewhere. This exodus during the winter season, which should be an ideal time to enjoy the city, is a poignant reflection of the severity of the air quality issue.
The Delhi High Court underscored a fundamental principle: the residents of Delhi have an inherent right to breathe clean air, and the presence of greenery is an essential element in securing this right. In essence, green spaces play a significant role in mitigating the impact of air pollution and enhancing the quality of life for Delhi’s inhabitants.
The court’s firm stance reflects the gravity of the situation and its determination to hold the concerned authorities accountable for the well-being of the city’s residents. The pollution crisis in Delhi has reached alarming levels, and it is adversely affecting the health of its residents, particularly children. The court’s message is not just a legal directive but a call for action to safeguard the basic right of the people to breathe clean air.
The importance of green spaces cannot be overstated in the context of air quality. Trees and vegetation act as natural air filters, absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen. They are also known to reduce the ambient temperature and create a more pleasant environment. However, rampant encroachments and unauthorized construction are threatening these vital green areas, such as the ridge, which are essential for maintaining the city’s ecological balance.
Also read: Air Pollution in Delhi Causes : An Overview
The court’s focus on filling vacancies in the forest department is a pragmatic step. Adequate manpower is essential for the department to execute its responsibilities effectively. With the right personnel in place, the forest department can take swift and decisive action to combat encroachments and conserve existing green spaces while also working towards creating alternative forests to enhance Delhi’s green cover.
The Delhi High Court’s stern message to the forest department is a reminder that clean air is not a luxury but a fundamental right of the city’s residents. It highlights the critical role of greenery in combating air pollution and improving the quality of life in the national capital. As Delhi grapples with its smog menace, this intervention by the court serves as a beacon of hope for a greener and healthier future for the city and its people.
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