Latest Delhi pollution News | Top Delhi pollution News Headlines Today | Today India news | Breaking Delhi pollution News Today | English Delhi pollution News Headlines - TheDailyGuardian

AQI Hits 301 in Delhi; AAP and BJP Clash Over Pollution Crisis

May 16, 2025, 10:00 am

Delhi’s air quality worsened sharply on Friday morning. The AQI hit 301, placing it in the “very poor” category. A sudden increase in dust pollution caused this decline.

AQI Touches Hazardous Levels in Several Areas

According to the Central Pollution Control Board, Delhi’s overall AQI at 7 am was 301. This range falls under “very poor.” Most monitoring stations showed similarly dangerous levels.

The AQI at Anand Vihar reached 352. In Ashok Vihar, it stood at 322. Aya Nagar recorded 333. These figures confirmed a significant drop in air quality.

IMD Explains the Reason Behind the Sudden Decline

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) explained the cause. Strong winds, blowing at 30–40 kmph, hit Palam and nearby areas. These winds brought heavy dust from Rajasthan. As a result, Delhi’s air quality dropped quickly—something unusual for May.

AAP Blames BJP Over Pollution Spike

Soon after, a political row broke out. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) blamed the BJP for failing to deliver on clean air promises.

AAP’s official handle wrote on X, “In the month of May itself, Delhi-NCR was covered in a blanket of pollution. In the month of May itself, AQI has crossed 500 in many areas of Delhi-NCR, and dust and poisonous air are spread in the air. This has never happened before. There are BJP governments in Delhi and all the surrounding states, but no BJP government is doing any work to reduce pollution.”

Kejriwal Points to Better Conditions Under AAP Rule

AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal also responded. He shared a news report and said on X, “Air pollution was never this bad during the AAP regime at this time of the year.”

BJP Hits Back, Criticises AAP

In response, Delhi Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa took aim at Atishi, a former Delhi CM. She had said the AQI touched 500 on Thursday. Sirsa accused AAP of leaving behind problems.

He said, “I am very amazed that Atishi has been the CM and she is tweeting like this – yesterday, the weather department had told that there would be thunderstorms and duststorms – now, will we be blamed for such storms? But it’s good that Atishi has expectations from us. But, the ‘disease’ that ‘AAP-da’ has given us for the last 10 years, we will make all efforts and will clean the air of Delhi.”

SC Raps Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, UP Govts Demands Response On Year-Long Ban on Firecrackers

December 12, 2024, 10:23 pm

In a decisive move to combat escalating air and noise pollution, the Supreme Court on Thursday directed the governments of Delhi and neighboring National Capital Region (NCR) states—Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan—to make a definitive decision on imposing a year-round ban on firecrackers. The bench, comprising Justices Abhay S. Oka and Augustine George Masih, emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue, mandating that the states submit their resolutions to the apex court promptly.

Highlighting the dual threat posed by firecrackers, the bench stated that a comprehensive ban is essential not only to mitigate air pollution but also to reduce noise pollution. The justices noted that the matter of prohibiting firecracker usage in NCR states remains unresolved and requires immediate attention. They asserted, “We direct the concerned state governments to place their decisions regarding a complete ban on the use of firecrackers throughout the year.”

Clarifying the scope of the proposed prohibition, the Supreme Court specified that the ban would encompass the manufacture, storage, sale, and distribution of firecrackers. This comprehensive approach aims to eliminate the sources contributing to pollution.

The court’s directives came during a hearing focused on the persistent air pollution crisis in the national capital. In a bid to further alleviate environmental degradation, the justices suggested that government departments transition to electric vehicles, thereby setting a precedent for sustainable practices.

Reaffirming its commitment to existing pollution control measures, the Supreme Court ordered the continued enforcement of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) until further notice. Additionally, the court instructed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CQAM) to implement modified strategies aimed at enhancing Delhi’s air quality.

This landmark directive underscores the Supreme Court’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding public health and the environment, urging state governments to take immediate and decisive action against the detrimental effects of firecrackers.

Pollution Not Only Damages Lungs: It Could Be Making You Gain Weight, Here’s How

November 22, 2024, 1:28 pm

As Delhi continues to grapple with severe air pollution, doctors are raising alarms about the hidden dangers of toxic air. While the smog and pollutants are known to cause respiratory and cardiovascular issues, experts are now warning that they could also contribute to weight gain, rising obesity rates, and hormonal disruptions.

Air Quality in ‘Very Poor’ Category

On Friday morning, the air quality index (AQI) in the capital was recorded in the ‘very poor’ category, with a level of 371 at 7:15 a.m., according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). In several areas of Delhi, the AQI was reported to be alarmingly high, reaching over 400, and even exceeding 450 in certain locations such as Anand Vihar, Bawana, and Jahangirpuri.

Impact of Air Pollution on Metabolism and Weight

Experts explain that prolonged exposure to air pollutants, including particulate matter and carbon monoxide, can disrupt the body’s metabolism, leading to weight gain and obesity. Dr. Shailly Sharma, Senior Consultant at Cloudnine Hospital, explains, “Air pollution causes metabolic disorders that can lead to weight gain. It also triggers inflammation, which is a significant factor in obesity.” She adds that respiratory symptoms, like coughing and shortness of breath, can limit physical activity, further contributing to sedentary behavior and weight gain.

The Role of Hormones in Obesity

Air pollution’s effects on hormones are also a growing concern. Studies indicate that exposure to pollutants can lead to systemic inflammation, affecting hormonal balance and leading to conditions such as insulin resistance, which contributes to obesity. Dr. Vikas Mittal, Pulmonologist at CK Birla Hospital, states, “Air pollution is an irritant that causes inflammation in the airways, releasing inflammatory markers that affect various organs and alter hormonal functions, which can exacerbate conditions like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes.”

Air Pollution and Fertility Concerns

In addition to obesity, long-term exposure to air pollution is also linked to fertility issues. Research has shown that the toxins in the air can disrupt reproductive hormones, potentially reducing conception rates and overall fertility.

Experts Urge Immediate Action

With air quality in Delhi continuing to deteriorate, doctors emphasize the urgent need for better pollution control measures and public health awareness. The long-term consequences of polluted air on weight gain, obesity, and hormonal health are clear, and further research is needed to understand the full extent of its impact on public health.

As Delhi-NCR remains enveloped in a blanket of smog, the latest warnings highlight the need for individuals to take proactive measures to protect their health from the unseen dangers lurking in the air.

Pollution Hits Every Family In Delhi-NCR: Alarming Health Survey

November 20, 2024, 10:49 pm

Every family in Delhi-NCR is battling one or more health issues caused by severe air pollution, a new survey by LocalCircles has revealed. As the air quality continues to deteriorate, ailments like sore throats, headaches, and breathing difficulties are becoming increasingly common.

Key Findings of the Survey

– Widespread Health Problems:
75% of families reported at least one member suffering from sore throat or cough.
58% of families experienced frequent headaches due to toxic pollution.
50% reported breathing difficulties or asthma among their members.

– Rising Illness Rates:
The survey found that the percentage of families with ill members rose from 69% on November 1 to 75% by November 19, highlighting the worsening situation.

Impact of Alarming AQI Levels

Delhi-NCR’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has reached hazardous levels, with PM2.5 concentrations soaring to 1500 in some areas. The survey compared the situation to “living in a gas chamber,” underscoring the gravity of the crisis.

How Families Are Coping

– Air Purifiers:
27% of families are using air purifiers, up from 18% a month earlier, reflecting the growing reliance on technology to combat pollution.

– Immunity-Boosting Foods:
Many families are turning to traditional remedies and immunity-boosting foods to fight the effects of pollution.

– Lack of Solutions:
Alarmingly, 23% of respondents admitted they are unable to take any measures to protect themselves, highlighting the lack of affordable solutions for many residents.

Survey Details

The survey collected insights from over 21,000 residents of Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad, and Ghaziabad. Of these, 63% were men and 37% were women.

Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for Action

As pollution continues to wreak havoc on public health in Delhi-NCR, it’s crucial for authorities and citizens alike to take urgent steps to address this escalating crisis.

Delhi Pollution: AQI Remains ‘Very Poor’; Smog Blankets Capital, Reducing Visibility

November 8, 2024, 8:41 am

The air quality in Delhi remains in the “very poor” category as heavy smog continues to blanket the city, reducing visibility for the eighth consecutive day since Diwali. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 383 as of 8 a.m. today.

Visuals show worsened visibility at Tilak Marg, where the AQI dropped to 349. Surrounding areas recorded similarly troubling figures, with Alipur at 397, Bawana at 440, Dwarka Sector 8 at 391, Mundka at 428, Najafgarh at 374, New Moti Bagh at 427, Rohini at 439, and Punjabi Bagh and RK Puram both at 406, according to SAFAR data. These areas report “very poor” and “severe” air quality, posing serious health risks to residents.

Meanwhile, devotees gathered at Yamuna ghat in Kalindi Kunj for the final day of Chhath Puja. Drone footage from this morning shows thick layers of toxic foam on the Yamuna River, highlighting ongoing pollution issues. Previously, on the third day of Chhath Puja, devotees offered ‘Arghya’ to the setting sun while standing in foam-laden waters at Kalindi Kunj.

In light of the river’s contamination, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed seeking permission to conduct Chhath Puja on the Yamuna banks, challenging the existing ban. However, the Delhi High Court, led by Chief Justice of Delhi, declined to issue permissions, citing the severe health risks associated with the polluted waters. The court noted that nearly 1,000 alternative locations with adequate facilities had been arranged for the puja, dismissing the petition in favor of public health.

An AQI between 200 and 300 is deemed “poor,” 301-400 “very poor,” 401-450 “severe,” and above 450 is categorized as “severe plus.”

Addressing the worsening pollution, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai chaired a meeting on Tuesday, calling for a collective approach among North Indian states to tackle the issue. Rai also accused neighboring BJP-led states of politicizing the pollution crisis.

Delhi Struggles with Severe Air Quality as Winter Approaches

November 4, 2024, 10:45 am

As winter approaches, a thick layer of smog has settled over Delhi, causing the air quality index (AQI) to remain in the “very poor” category. On Monday morning, the AQI was recorded above 300 in various parts of the national capital, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

AQI Readings Across the Capital

At around 7 AM, several areas reported alarming AQI levels. New Moti Bagh recorded an AQI of 400, RK Puram at 393, Dwarka Sector 8 at 393, and ITO at 349, all indicating “very poor” air quality. Meanwhile, Vivek Vihar showed an AQI of 421, and Ashok Vihar reached 409, categorizing the air quality as “severe.”

Understanding the AQI Categories

To clarify the levels of air quality:

200-300: Poor
301-400: Very Poor
401-450: Severe
Above 450: Severe Plus

Concerns from Residents and Tourists

Tourists and locals alike have expressed their concerns about the deteriorating air quality. Ashish, a tourist from Mumbai, voiced his distress, stating, “Yesterday I came from Mumbai to Delhi. Right now, the old people are facing a lot of issues. They are facing breathing issues. We cannot even see the sunrise because of the smog. This is a serious problem and we need to address it.”

Local resident Manoj Kumar echoed similar sentiments, saying, “People are facing a lot of issues due to pollution. The only thing we can do to prevent ourselves is not get out of their homes, especially those who have low immunity.”

Anand Vihar: The Most Affected Area

Anand Vihar, a major terminal for interstate buses, continues to be severely impacted by pollution, with an AQI level reaching 433, placing it in the “severe” category. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi highlighted that the influx of buses from Uttar Pradesh is a significant contributor to the area’s poor air quality, emphasizing the need for discussions with the UP government.

Government’s Response and Solutions

Environment Minister Gopal Rai also addressed the situation, pointing out that the diesel buses coming from Uttar Pradesh are “doubling the pollution” in Delhi. He requested the UP government to implement water sprinkling at the Kaushambi bus depot to mitigate the pollution. Rai remarked, “The pollution level in Delhi is in the ‘poor’ category. But the pollution level in Anand Vihar has been at a very high level. Diesel buses are coming here in huge numbers from Uttar Pradesh. The smoke from those buses is doubling the pollution in Delhi… I request the UP government to conduct water sprinkling in the Kaushambi bus depot. We can bring a solution with joint effort.”

Delhi Govt’s Lies Exposed: Haryana CM Hits Back In Yamuna Pollution Row

October 21, 2024, 12:27 am

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has sharply criticized Delhi Chief Minister Atishi and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government for allegedly deflecting blame over the deteriorating condition of the Yamuna River. Saini accused the Delhi government of misleading the public and failing to address the real sources of pollution.

Accusations of Habitual Lying

Saini did not mince words, accusing the AAP government of being “habitual liars” and constantly shifting the blame onto others instead of taking responsibility. He emphasized that the Haryana government has consistently provided clean water to Delhi, with a biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) of 2-3 mg per litre, far below harmful levels.

“The water we supply through the CLC canal is nearly free of pollutants,” Saini pointed out. “But the Delhi government must explain who is responsible for the 28 drains of untreated water flowing from Delhi into the Yamuna.”

Misuse of Yamuna Action Plan Funds?

The Haryana CM went on to question how Delhi’s government has used the Rs 6,000 crore allocated by the Centre for the Yamuna Action Plan, including Rs 3,000 crore received over the past two years. “What did they do with that money?” Saini asked, demanding transparency and accountability from the AAP administration.

Atishi’s Counterclaims: Blame on BJP

In a counterattack, Delhi CM Atishi accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of engaging in “dirty politics” to obscure the real cause behind rising pollution levels in the city. According to Atishi, the BJP governments in Haryana and Uttar Pradesh are responsible for increasing stubble burning and releasing industrial waste into the Yamuna.

Atishi also highlighted the Delhi government’s efforts to combat pollution, such as the introduction of CNG and electric buses, in contrast to the diesel buses from neighboring states. She questioned why Haryana and UP haven’t followed suit, alleging that they prefer to “play politics with the health of Delhi residents.”

Action Promised by Delhi Govt

Despite the escalating war of words, Atishi assured the public that the Delhi government, under Arvind Kejriwal’s leadership, is actively working to address both air and water pollution. She promised that defoaming efforts in the Yamuna River would begin again soon to counter the toxic foam formation.

Delhi Pollution: AAP Govt Revives Winter Action Plan; Odd-Even, Ban On Firecrackers Expected

September 25, 2024, 3:40 pm

On Wednesday, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai launched a 21-point action plan to tackle the pollution in the capital during the upcoming months. Measures include the odd-even vehicle scheme and the use of artificial rain. Pollution would, for the first time, be monitored in real time across 13 pollution hotspots in the capital by drone technology.

Launching the campaign on air pollution, Rai stated the need to join hands saying, “The winter action plan tries to answer the issue with the tagline ‘Mil Kar Chalein, Pradushan Se Ladein’. It is a question that if every agency and government will work together then only will we able to tackle the issue of pollution.”

VIDEO | “The Delhi government is starting its campaign today against air pollution. The theme of the winter action plan is ‘Mil Kar Chalein, Pradushan Se Ladein’. If every agency and government will work together then only we will be able to overcome the issue of pollution,” says… pic.twitter.com/acxdQas1lZ

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 25, 2024

One task force which is made up of six members appointed will be to combat pollution from various pollutants in addition to the winter Action plan. The anti dust campaign is set for 7th October and henceforth, it is anticipated that both private and government campaigns will strictly follow the guidelines on dust control.

Rai also supported the ongoing ban on firecrackers as he said, “As far as firecrackers are concerned, there is no order of prohibition on firecrackers as of now. The day a notification comes… on prohibition that comes into effect… and continues till 1st January.”

Further, construction sites which are found over 500 meters are also to be put to registration with the government and attempts to rein in the dust pollution are targeted up to 85 road sweeping and 500 water sprinkling machines. The Minister also announce

Delhi pollution: Buses except CNG, electric, BS-VI diesel ones are probably to be barred from entering city

November 16, 2023, 9:18 am

A complete ban on passenger buses entering the national capital other than those powered by CNG, electricity, and BS-VI diesel is expected to be implemented by the Delhi government due to the current state of pollution. Due to the nation’s capital’s declining air quality, Delhi is currently under GRAP Stage IV restrictions. Only trucks are currently prohibited from entering the city. “Chhath Puja is approaching, and there is a huge rush being witnessed as a result,” a source stated. Following the festival, we intend to impose a ban.” The Delhi government mandated last month that all buses coming into the national capital from Haryana have to be powered by electricity, compressed natural gas (CNG), or BS-VI diesel.

These regulations also apply to buses arriving from the Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan NCR regions. Beginning on July 1, only buses powered by electricity, compressed natural gas (CNG), or BS-VI diesel will be allowed to enter Delhi from any city or town in Haryana, Rajasthan, or Uttar Pradesh, according to the city government’s transport department.

“There are plans to implement the same norms for buses coming from all states,” the source added.

Despite the city government’s strict measures to control pollution, such as prohibiting construction and the entry of diesel-guzzling trucks into the city, Delhi’s air quality has declined over the past few days. To enforce the restrictions, forty enforcement teams, including traffic, are stationed in Delhi’s border areas between 8 p.m. and 4 a.m. In total, one hundred teams have been mobilized to inspect trucks that are overloaded, certificates of pollution, interstate buses, and traffic jams.

Delhi Pollution: Blanket of smog welcomes winter, AQI 315 recorded

November 27, 2022, 11:28 am

Delhi breathed in a ‘very poor’ category of air as winter has knocked the national capital. A layer of smog covered the NCR on Sunday morning as the overall Air Quality Index was recovered at 315, according to SAFAR. The national capital recorded AQI at 301(very poor) on Saturday too.
In the meantime, the Lodhi Road area’s AQI dropped to the “very poor” level, landing at 301. Due to elevated PM 2.5 concentrations, the SAFAR recorded an AQI reading of 331 (extremely poor) at Mathura Road. With an AQI of 332, the Delhi Airport Terminal didn’t fare much better (very poor).
Similarly, Noida’s AQI of 345 placed its air quality in the “bad category.”

The Air Quality Index is a tool for clearly explaining the status of the air quality to the general public. It simplifies complicated information about the air quality caused by different pollutants into a single number (index value), nomenclature, and color.

When the Air Quality Index is between 0 and 100, it is good; when it is between 100 and 200, it is moderate; when it is between 200 and 300, it is poor; when it is between 300 and 400, it is very poor; and when it is between 400 and 500 or higher, it is severe.

The Sub-Committee for Invoking Actions Under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) met on November 18 to review the progress of the actions implemented under Stage II and Stage I of the GRAP in the entire NCR despite the continued poor air quality.

According to IMD/dynamic IITM’s model and weather/meteorological forecast, the overall air quality is expected to fluctuate primarily between the “Poor” and “Very Poor” categories over the next three days. According to the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, Delhi’s main surface wind is expected to come from the north or north-west.
The Commission Sub-Committee is keeping a close eye on the situation and will adjust the air quality scenario as necessary.

Delhi air quality ‘moderate’ with AQI recorded at 193 on Wednesday

November 23, 2022, 11:23 am

The System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research reported an AQI of 193, indicating a significant improvement in the city’s overall air quality to a “moderate level” (SAFAR).

On Tuesday, the city’s AQI was 286 (poor). The Delhi University region recorded PM 10 at 148 and PM 2.5 “poor” at 228 on Wednesday, whereas the IIT Delhi area recorded PM 10 at 125 and PM 2.5 at 132, which is rated as moderate.

With PM 10 levels of 140 and PM 2.5 levels of 183, the Particulate Matter (PM) level at Pusa Road was similarly noted as moderate; Mathura Road had PM 10 levels of 155 and PM 2.5 levels of 166.

The Air Quality Index is a mechanism for clearly explaining the status of air quality to the general public. It simplifies complicated information about the air quality caused by different contaminants into a single number (the index value), nomenclature, and colour.

When the air quality index is between 0 and 100, it is good; when it is between 100 and 200, it is moderate; when it is between 200 and 300, it is poor; when it is between 300 and 400, it is very poor; and when it is between 400 and 500 or higher, it is severe.

The Sub-Committee for Invoking Activities Under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) met on November 18 to examine the status of the actions implemented under Stage II and Stage I of the GRAP across the entire NCR despite the continued poor air quality.

In the coming days, the overall air quality is expected to fluctuate primarily between the “poor” and lower end of the “very poor” categories, according to the dynamic model and weather/meteorological forecast supplied by IMD and IITM. According to the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, Delhi’s main surface wind is expected to be from the north or north-west.

The Commission Sub-Committee is keeping a close eye on the situation and will adjust the air quality scenario as necessary.

kejriwal responsible for Delhi’s pollution: Meenakshi Lekhi

November 9, 2022, 7:21 pm

BJP leader Meenakshi Lekhi said on Wednesday that Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal and the AAP administration are to blame for the pollution of Delhi’s air.

According to the Union Minister, Delhi collected Rs. 1286.93 crore in environmental taxes over the course of seven years. She claimed that every month, 80 lakh rupees were spent on maintaining the pollution tower, which is also inoperable.

Approximately 1,287 crores of rupees in environmental cess were collected over the past seven years, of which 272 crores of rupees were spent in 2015–16, according to information obtained through RTI.

“Out of this, 265 crores of rupees were spent on only one project, the rapid transport system. The remaining money while everyone knows that environment cess money can be spent only on the issue of the environment, not on any other item,” she said.
Lekhi further added, “Through an RTI, we tried to enquire if the ‘red light on, gaadi off’ campaign is actually useful or not. We got to know that it does not make any difference.”

Lekhi further added, “Through an RTI, we tried to enquire if the ‘red light on, gaadi off’ campaign is actually useful or not. We got to know that it does not make any difference.”

Lekhi criticised Punjab’s Aam Aadmi Party (APP) administration for failing to prevent stubble burning while in power.

According to Lekhi, there have been more instances of stubble burning in Punjab since Arvind Kejriwal’s government took office.

He promised to build 10 smog towers, but only one was built. That’s not working either. Kejriwal did not do any work to improve the environment of Delhi,” she said.
The Union Minister took a swipe at Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, calling him a part-time Chief Minister and saying that the national capital does not need a part-time CM.
“The Delhi government did not allocate money for the disposal of garbage. Kejriwal spent Rs 23 crore on the advertisement of stubble but only Rs 3 lakh on the land to prevent stubble. The difference between the words and deeds of the Kejriwal government is being paid for by the public,” said Lekhi.

Lekhi continued by saying that Delhi’s Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister are the city’s greatest polluters.

Union Minister Puri attacks AAP over Delhi pollution

November 5, 2022, 11:21 am

Commenting on Delhi-NCR’s air pollution, Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Friday that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) – ruling in both Delhi and Punjab – should own responsibility for the issue hours after Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal urged that there should be no blame game on the matter.

“Pollution is an issue everywhere; there are certain responsibilities that an elected government has to exercise. They are also there in Punjab, look at the incidents of stubble burning that had gone up in Punjab,” Puri said.

The Arvind Kejriwal administration increased certain efforts on Friday to take control of the situation amidst growing criticism as the capital’s air quality deteriorates. In Delhi, primary schools have been closed until November 8 while government workers are instructed to “work from home” part-time until the situation improves.

Delhi Environment minister Gopal Rai also said that other than essential services, entry of trucks were being banned in the state and measures to control vehicular pollution such as the ‘odd-even’ rule would be considered. He said that a team of senior officials to monitor anti-polluting activities in the state will gear up to implement necessary measures.

Officials cautioned people against going outside unless it was absolutely necessary as the air quality index deteriorated to a “severe” category with readings as high as 450. An increase in stubble burning incidents in neighbouring states has ignited the political climate in the town. The Bharatiya Janata Party accused AAP of turning Delhi into a “gas chamber” after more than 3,500 cases were reported in Punjab alone in the previous week. The Delhi chief minister retorted on Friday that “this was not the time for blame game, it won’t help finding solutions.”