Mother Nature has indeed been kind. A long spell of rain that splashed the Capital this monsoon has provided much relief from the heat and helped the city cool down and the air become moist. But most importantly, it has washed away the many toxic pollutants, thereby improving the overall air quality.
But what is commendable is that the Delhi Government, which has to deal with the problem of the unhealthy haze which engulfs the city with the onset of winters, is making a smart investment: It has launched a well-targeted tree plantation drive.
More than five lakh trees will be planted this month. The absorbent qualities of plants need not be emphasized . The tree plantation drive will yield results when done the right way. Identification of hotspots for pollution is a must. Likewise, the administration must also be selective in the type of trees they plant – ones that are more effective in trapping pollutants must be used. But most important of all is maintenance. Post the plantation drive, the onus should not rest upon the Government or officials alone. It should be taken up as a public health measure and requires sustained efforts from all stakeholders, including citizens.
