BENGALURU/DELHI: As Delhi struggles with hazardous air quality levels, social media is abuzz with reactions contrasting the national capital’s plight with Bengaluru’s relatively cleaner air. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi remained in the severe plus category for the second consecutive day, with a staggering AQI of 488 recorded on Tuesday morning. In contrast, Bengaluru’s AQI ranged from 60 to 80 earlier but stood at 159 today, categorized as moderate.
Humor and Reactions on Social Media
An X user humorously quipped:
“It’s time to learn Kannada and permanently settle in Bengaluru.”
Another post added a satirical note:
“Clean air is a fundamental human right, but in Delhi, you have to pay for it with an additional 18 per cent GST.”
Concerns Over Bengaluru’s Future
The light-hearted remarks sparked concerns among users:
- Astha Kohli:
“If everyone moves there, Bengaluru might become like Delhi-NCR.”
- Rohan:
“Yeah, the air quality… it’s kinda rough there. Moving somewhere with better air, like Bengaluru, sounds… maybe not the worst idea. But then again, figuring out a local language can be a challenge, right?”
Delhi’s AQI Crisis
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s air quality remains alarmingly high, with dense smog engulfing the city and severely reducing visibility. The conditions are particularly hazardous for vulnerable populations, such as:
- Children
- Elderly individuals
- People with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions
Shashi Tharoor’s Criticism
Congress leader Shashi Tharoor criticized the central government’s inaction:
“Delhi is the most polluted city in the world, making it nearly uninhabitable from November to January and barely liveable throughout the rest of the year.”
Tharoor called it “unconscionable” that successive governments have failed to address Delhi’s air quality crisis adequately, despite its persistence for years.
Bengaluru’s Air Quality
Though Bengaluru’s AQI has risen to 159 (moderate), it remains significantly better than Delhi’s severe levels. However, experts caution that vulnerable groups, including individuals with respiratory issues, should limit prolonged outdoor activity.
Key Takeaway
The stark contrast between Delhi and Bengaluru highlights the urgent need for stronger pollution control measures in the capital, as discussions around relocation and lifestyle adjustments gain traction among citizens.
