Delhi toxic froth: Grim situation is unfolding in the national capital as both air and water pollution reach alarming levels. On Friday, the Yamuna River was found covered in thick layers of toxic froth, while the citys average air quality index (AQI) remained in the poor category, standing at 293.The toxic foam, experts warned, contains dangerously high levels of ammonia and phosphates, posing significant health risks. These chemicals can lead to respiratory issues and skin problems. Environmental specialists have urged swift government action to combat the pollution, especially with festivals like Chhath Puja approaching.This type of froth usually forms when fats from decaying plants mix with pollutants. Its appearance during the monsoon is unusual, and it can be attributed to the lack of flooding that would normally wash these pollutants away, said an environmental expert to PTI.#WATCH | Delhi: Toxic foam seen floating on the Yamuna River. Visuals from Kalindi Kunj. pic.twitter.com/tXeBtNk4MI— ANI (@ANI) October 18, 2024Delhis air quality worsensMeanwhile, air quality in several parts of Delhi reached the very poor category, with areas like Wazirpur recording an AQI of 379, Vivek Vihar at 327, Shadipur at 337, and Punjabi Bagh at 312. These levels highlight the persistent issue of air pollution in the city, particularly with winter months approaching, when pollution tends to worsen.In response, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced the deployment of 80 anti-smog guns across 13 pollution hotspots in the city. Each hotspot will have a dedicated coordination committee to monitor and act against localized sources of pollution.Political blame game escalatesThe worsening pollution levels have also reignited a political battle. BJP MP Manoj Tiwari criticized the AAP government, accusing Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Environment Minister Atishi of failing to address pollution over the years. Pollution is turning fatal again—from the air to the river—and this is just the beginning, Tiwari said.Rai countered these claims, asserting that the Kejriwal government has taken significant measures, such as ensuring uninterrupted power supply and reducing generator emissions. The BJP spreads pollution we work to reduce it, Rai stated.
