Deputy CM directs urgent measures to curb rising air pollution in Bengaluru

The Hindu
The Hindu
1h ago • 1 views
D.K. Shivakumar has ordered urgent measures to address rising air pollution in Bengaluru, responding to concerns that the city may face a crisis similar to Delhi's.
Deputy CM directs urgent measures to curb rising air pollution in Bengaluru
A What happened
Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has taken urgent action to combat rising air pollution in Bengaluru. He has directed the Chief Secretary to form an expert committee to suggest immediate interventions. This response comes after MLC Dinesh Gooligowda raised alarms about the city's air quality, which could deteriorate to levels seen in Delhi. With over 1.23 crore registered vehicles in a city of 1.47 crore people, the pollution levels are concerning. The Air Quality Index currently falls between 50 and 70, but experts warn it could worsen significantly in the coming years. Health issues related to pollution, particularly among children and the elderly, are already being reported. Gooligowda has called for a high-level panel of experts to devise actionable strategies to address this crisis. Shivakumar has instructed relevant departments to take immediate steps.

Key insights

  • 1

    Expert Committee Formation

    An expert committee will be formed to address air pollution.

  • 2

    Rising Vehicle Numbers

    Bengaluru sees over 2,500 new vehicles added daily.

  • 3

    Health Concerns

    Increased respiratory issues reported among vulnerable populations.

Takeaways

The proactive measures taken by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar aim to prevent Bengaluru from facing a severe pollution crisis, similar to that of Delhi, by addressing the root causes of air quality deterioration.

Topics

Climate & Environment Climate Health & Medicine Public Health Culture & Society Society