Delhi's Pollution Victory Amid Political Clash

The AAP and BJP claimed victory over deploying terminated bus marshals in pollution control roles in Delhi. Following their October termination, the marshals will be re-employed for four months as civil defense volunteers, a decision lauded as a success by both parties amidst rising pollution levels.

In a political tug-of-war, both the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) hailed the decision to engage previously terminated bus marshals in pollution mitigation duties as a triumph. Set to begin on November 1, the initiative was launched by an order from Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena.

The re-employed bus marshals, initially terminated in October 2023, are now tasked as civil defense volunteers to support anti-pollution efforts across the capital. Delhi minister Saurabh Bharadwaj described this development as a result of persistent efforts by the marshals and the AAP, amidst opposition from the BJP-led central government.

While the BJP celebrates the move, accusing AAP of misleading workers, it highlights ongoing pollution challenges in Delhi. As political narratives clash, the city grapples with persistent air quality issues, described as 'very poor' in numerous areas, emphasizing the need for sustainable solutions.

(With inputs from agencies.)