Form Panel of Five CMs to Fight NCR Pollution, Says Congress MP Deepender Hooda

By A Staff Reporter

Congress MP Deepender Hooda on Wednesday expressed deep concern over the deteriorating air quality in Delhi and the National Capital Region, urging immediate and coordinated intervention from the Centre. Speaking to reporters in Delhi, Hooda said residents were being “forced to inhale poisonous air,” and the issue could no longer be brushed aside through temporary measures.

He demanded that Prime Minister Narendra Modi take direct cognisance of the crisis and lead a long-term, structured response. “A situation has arisen today where we are forced to inhale this poisonous air here. We demand that this issue be taken seriously and that the PM come forward on it,” Hooda said.

Calling for an institutional mechanism to address the recurring pollution emergency, the Congress leader proposed the formation of a high-level panel comprising the chief ministers of Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Rajasthan. He stressed that only a coordinated, multi-state approach could tackle the complex mix of factors driving air pollution in the region.

Hooda also emphasised the need for a comprehensive, well-funded strategy rather than ad-hoc actions. “A detailed plan with budget allocation should be made to deal with air pollution in Delhi NCR,” he said, adding that the health of millions could not remain hostage to political disagreements or administrative delays.