Even before the onset of the winter season in the country’s capital, Delhi, air pollution levels have risen rapidly.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) has crossed 300 in several parts of the city, falling in the “very poor” category. In areas like Anand Vihar and Akshardham, the AQI has reached 392 (as of November 4).

As it becomes difficult for residents of Delhi to breathe, the Delhi government appears to be failing in its efforts to reduce air pollution. Meanwhile, authorities have been accused of continuously sprinkling water in several areas near air quality monitoring stations, so that the air around these stations appears cleaner and the AQI readings are recorded as lower than they actually are.

On November 4, The Wire visited the air quality monitoring station near ITI in Jahangirpuri to investigate the truth behind this water sprinkling. The area near the AQI monitoring station was found to be damp, with water sprayed on the ground and around the station. A labourer working there told The Wire that water is brought in by tankers every day.

Meanwhile, a group of citizens under the My Right to Breathe campaign sought a 15-minute meeting with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta to present their concerns and suggestions. The Chief Minister’s Office responded that the meeting was not possible due to the CM’s busy schedule. Meanwhile, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta was seen campaigning for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the Bihar assembly elections.

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