Delhi's Environment Minister, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, issued an apology on Tuesday for the city's persistent air pollution crisis, while also taking a swipe at the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the previous governing party in Delhi. Sirsa asserted that the current administration is dedicated to улучшать air quality, but очистка the air in a short period is a difficult task.

The minister's apology comes as Delhi continues to grapple with hazardous air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) remaining in the "very poor" category. On Tuesday morning, the overall AQI was recorded at 378, although some areas experienced "severe" levels, with readings as high as 426. This level of pollution poses significant health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. The hazardous air conditions have disrupted daily life, with smog and fog reducing visibility and prompting health advisories from experts, urging residents to limit outdoor activities and wear masks.

Sirsa placed blame on the previous AAP government for the current pollution levels, suggesting their policies had contributed to the crisis. He stated that the "disease of pollution" was handed over by AAP and that the current government is working to fix it. While acknowledging the recent deterioration in air quality, Sirsa claimed that the situation is still better than last year, attributing this to the efforts made by the present government over the past ten months. He stated, "It is impossible for any elected government to reduce AQI in 9-10 months".

Sirsa also criticized AAP leaders for protesting the pollution levels at the Delhi Secretariat, accusing them of inaction during their time in power. He further challenged Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra for their recent comments on pollution, questioning their silence when air quality was similarly poor in the past.

The Delhi government has announced a series of measures to combat pollution, including banning non-BS-VI vehicles from entering the city and denying fuel to vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC). These measures will take effect from Thursday. Additionally, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has banned the use of coal and firewood in tandoors at hotels, restaurants, and eateries across Delhi. Establishments must switch to electric, gas-based, or other clean-fuel appliances.

The minister highlighted that the government has identified 13 pollution hotspots in the city and is working with concerned agencies to address them. He claimed that AQI levels at these locations are lower this year compared to the past decade, excluding the Covid period, calling it a significant achievement. Sirsa also mentioned efforts to reduce the height of garbage mountains and reclaim land.

The blame game between political parties over Delhi's pollution crisis is not new. AAP has previously blamed stubble burning in neighboring states and changing weather conditions for the deteriorating air quality. The BJP, in turn, has accused AAP of inaction over the past years. This political back-and-forth often intensifies during the winter months when pollution levels spike.

Despite the political finger-pointing, the focus remains on the health and well-being of Delhi's residents, who continue to suffer from the effects of severe air pollution. Experts advise limiting outdoor exposure, using masks, and following official guidelines to minimize health risks.