The Delhi Cabinet on Saturday has cleared a proposal of its environment department to carry out a mass awareness campaign on pollution and pollution-control measures. The Cabinet has approved an expenditure of Rs 36 crore from the Budget of the Directorate of Information and Publicity (DIP) towards the mass awareness campaigns.
"One of the challenges faced by any Government in such a situation is regarding compliance and participation of the citizens in such emergency measures as these often intrude upon the regular day-to-day life of people and hence mass awareness campaign is necessary," Delhi Government said.
It is pertinent to mention here that level of harmful pollutants have recorded three times higher than their prescribed standards. Center-run pollution monitoring agency SAFAR advised masses to keep door and windows closed of homes and office to avoid exposure. Central pollution Control Board (CPCB) also recommends corporate employees to work from home.
"Air pollution is one of the most serious public health concerns faced by the citizens of Delhi. Rising pollution levels, especially in the winter months, affects the health of all citizens but especially that of children and senior citizens," Delhi Government said in a statement.
While the Delhi Government has claimed 25 per cent reduction in air pollution but due to unfavorable Meteorological conditions and stubble burning, Delhi has recorded higher levels of PM 2.5 in city atmosphere.
"One of the major reasons behind this increase in pollution levels is the stubble burning that happens in the neighbouring States of Delhi, something over which the Government of NCT of Delhi has no control. Therefore, the only option available to the people of Delhi are emergency measures to severely cut down on any sources of pollution emanating from Delhi, as well as to find mechanisms by which people can cope with the rising pollution levels," Delhi government said in a statement.
To encourage people not to fire crackers on Diwali, AAP Government is arranging a laser show as a community Diwali celebration in Central Park. "Various measures being taken by the Government of NCT of Delhi include Odd-Even rule from 4th-15th November, distribution of free masks to citizens of Delhi via school children, as well as encouraging a cracker-free Diwali by organising a laser show ," Delhi Government said in an official statement.