Over the last few years, the Delhi and Punjab governments have been at the receiving end of scathing criticism on the issue of air pollution. But the annual inter-State blame games have only served as a distraction even as residents in the two States continue to breathe polluted air. Now, with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) governing both Delhi and Punjab, collaboration for clean air should be the mantra for both State governments.
While Delhi dominates the discourse on air pollution in India, Punjab is home to nine of the 132 most polluted cities in the country identified by the Central Pollution Control Board. In 2019, Delhi and Punjab together faced economic losses estimated to be approximately ₹18,000 crore due to worsening air pollution. Therefore, by collaborating for clean air, both States can ensure improvements in citizen well-being and labour productivity.
