Taking cognisance of Delhi’s dangerous pollution level, Union Environment Minister Anil Madhav Dave on Thursday said the Ministry will soon issue an advisory to the States concerned on taking up short, medium and long term measures to tackle air pollution, after holding wide consultations.
The Ministry will also hold a meeting with secretaries of NCR States on Friday. Another meeting with NGOs and other stakeholders will be conducted for an advisory related to tackle Delhi’s pollution level.
He further said although the problem had been persistent, Diwali aggravated the situation and collective effort from each individual is needed to tackle the issue. “Meeting of State secretaries has been called. Then what could be a short, medium and long term plan to tackle air pollution for Delhi, what can be done today and next year, we will discuss the long term and we will issue a recommendation or advisory and tell the states to implement it,” said Dave.
“Making allegations and counter allegations is part of politics. I do not belong to that stream. This is a problem which is in front of Delhi. If we want a solution, then we have to work collectively for this. Every person is a polluter,” he said.
The Minister said stricter rules need to be enforced to tackle air pollution problem and the Ministry will urge the States to do so.
“The seriousness which should be there...Street smart is different but if you really want any big change, then you yourself have to become big. We are talking about one day but not 365 days. The situation was bad in all 365 days and Diwali aggravated it,” the Union Minister further said while reacting on Delhi pollution matter.
Without naming the Delhi Government, Dave said this is a democratic country where even for a small issue, any leader takes to the streets and being “street smart” might get one short gain but not long term ones.