The Delhi Government on Monday said that scientists in the environment department are “constantly monitoring” the pollution levels in the national Capital where the air quality index has been “fluctuating” in the last 48 hours.
Addressing the media, Rural Development Minister said, “The Chief Minister and his Council of Minister are in “constant touch” with environment scientists, who are continuously monitoring the pollution levels. Officials of the Government are discussing aerial sprinkling of water with Pawan Hans officials”.
“The report for the last 48 hours given by the scientists is that the air quality is fluctuating. The report has been submitted to the Chief Minister and the Cabinet,” Rai said.
Meanwhile, the Delhi Government moved the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Monday seeking amendment to its November 11 order on odd-even car rationing scheme.
The Government on Saturday called off its plan to implement the odd-even scheme after the NGT had struck down exemption for women, two-wheelers and Government servants.
“Movement of trucks and construction works are under scrutiny, water is being sprinkled, we are continuously monitoring the situation,” he said.
Rai also hit out at the Haryana Government for “playing blame game on stubble burning instead of taking action in his own State”.
The national Capital has been experiencing dense smog for about a week, forcing authorities to enforce emergency measures such as banning construction activities and brick kilns in the National Capital Region.
Rai also hit out at the Centre, over the issue, referring to a media report that the Union Government allegedly “did not release funds” to States in north India, meant for farmers to dissuade them from stubble burning.
Asked about the allegation made by the Haryana Government as to what the AAP government was doing for Delhi farmers, he said, “We have been doing more than we can.”
“In Haryana and other States, the crop is cut from the top using technology, so it leaves along stubble which needs burning for removal. In Delhi, our farmers cut crops close to the roots. And, have you seen any visual on TV or photos in newspapers of Delhi farmers resorting to stubble burning,” he said.
“I was in Rohtak on Sunday and the air in Haryana right now is more noxious. What is Haryana Government doingIJ” the Minister asked.