Delhi Environment Minister Apologizes for Pollution, Says 9-10 Months Were Not Enough

New Delhi: Delhi’s Environment Minister, Manjit Singh Sirsa, has acknowledged that completely eliminating pollution in nine to ten months is an impossible task for any government. He apologized to the people of Delhi in this regard but also assured them that his government has made tireless efforts to reduce the daily Air Quality Index (AQI) compared to the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government’s tenure.

Pollution is a serious problem in Delhi, and finding a solution has been a major challenge for every government. Minister Sirsa’s statement makes it clear that he does not see the complete elimination of pollution as a short-term goal. He said, “I want to apologize to the people of Delhi and say that it is impossible for any government to completely eliminate pollution in nine to ten months.” This statement reflects both an admission of the difficulty of the task and the ground reality.

In his statement, Minister Sirsa also indirectly targeted the Aam Aadmi Party government. He said, “However, I want to assure the residents of Delhi that we have made tireless efforts to reduce the AQI every day compared to the Aam Aadmi Party government.” This statement also reflects the ongoing political rhetoric surrounding the pollution problem in Delhi, where various parties constantly blame each other.

Sirsa also informed that from December 18, no vehicle in the capital will be given petrol or diesel without a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate. Vehicle owners have only today and tomorrow to get their PUC certificates; the rule will be fully implemented from Thursday. Strict action will be taken against violators. If any truck is found carrying construction material without a valid PUC certificate, the vehicle will be seized, and a heavy fine will be imposed. Additionally, vehicles from outside Delhi that do not meet BS-6 emission standards will remain banned until further notice.