MANSI BHAMBRI/ Dehradun
Experts have urged the State government to promote the use of public transport in order to address the deteriorating Air Quality Index (AQI) in Dehradun, which has been problematic for several days. Many residents, along with experts, are concerned over the unhealthy AQI levels. They pointed out that the spiraling number of vehicles and deforestation are the main contributors to the unhealthy air quality the city has been experiencing.
Importantly, Dehradun’s AQI has remained around 300 (poor) during the past fortnight.
A Doonite, Manoj Kumar said that the unhealthy AQI levels in Dehradun have persisted for days. “This is a worrisome trend,” he said, adding that the government/ administration is to blame for this formidable challenge. “They are allowing large-scale deforestation through cutting trees in the name of development. Besides, over-tourism has been adversely impacting the environment. The government must understand the irreparable, long-term damage it has been inflicting on the environment and go for course correction without the least delay. If they fail it will be too late,” he warned.
An environmental activist, Ravi Chopra shared insight into the principal contributors to the unhealthy AQI in Dehradun. “The poor air quality has not only affected Dehradun but other districts too,” he said. Chopra also cited the increasing number of vehicles and tree chopping spree for the sorry state of things.
“What we perceive as fog this winter is actually smog, a mixture of fog and smoke. The worsening AQI is causing a spike in respiratory problems among residents,” he commented.
Asked about a solution, Chopra said that the State government should promote public transport to reduce the volume of private vehicles on roads. Even odd-even vehicle regulations could be enforced on specific days to mitigate pollution, he said. Also, he said warningly that the Rispana-Bindal Elevated Road project would aggravate the pollution levels. “Besides, road expansion works should be halted immediately. For, the more vehicles the greater air pollution,” he declared.
Another climate activist, Reenu Paul expressed concern over helicopter services for the Char Dham Yatra contributing significantly to worsening noise pollution and air quality. “Those living along Rajpur Road are the worst sufferers on count of the rising AQI levels,” she said.
Paul cited deforestation like others. “Trees are essential for absorbing carbon emissions from vehicles,” she said and stressed collective initiatives involving all departments, particularly police, as well as residents.
She also lent her full support to the suggestion on promoting public transport to mitigate the pollution level.
