GURUGRAM: A group of environmentalists on Wednesday wrote to CM Manohar Lal Khattar against the proposal of leasing out greenbelts in the city for commercial purposes. They said that this decision in any circumstances is going to be a death knell for the health of the residents. Air quality and health of citizens should be given priority over revenue generation, they stressed.
“Gurgaon is facing severe air pollution for the last 6 to 7 years and has been recognised as one of the most polluted cities in the world. The Air Quality Index (AQI) always remains above standard levels. If the remaining greenbelts are diverted for petrol pumps, liquor vends, nurseries, etc, it will only worsen the air quality of the city and will affect the health of the residents. I am sure it is no rocket science to comprehend this,” said Vaishali Rana Chandra, environment activist.
They also cited a joint survey report, which was released by ICMR and Public Health Foundation of India, which stated that due to air pollution, premature deaths are rising. “How can the state government choose to divert whatever precious little green cover the citizens of Gurgaon have for commercial use and revenue generation,” said Col SS Oberoi, another environmental expert.
Also, it is important to note that the city is struggling with an exiguous green cover of only 9% while our neighbouring Delhi boasts of a green cover of 21%. “Gurgaon continues to be in the top five most polluted cities in the world yet, the government is authorising the green cover we are left with to be directed for liquor vends, and petrol stations,” said Vivek Kamboj, an environment activist.