Congress Calls for National Health Emergency Amid Rising Air Pollution in Delhi-NCR

On December 4, 2025, Congress MPs raised alarms over the deteriorating air quality in Delhi-NCR, calling for the government to declare it a national health emergency. Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra highlighted the severe impact on vulnerable populations, including children and the elderly. Despite some improvements in air quality metrics, many areas remain shrouded in toxic smog, prompting urgent demands for effective government action. This article delves into the ongoing air pollution crisis and the political responses it has elicited.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 4, 2025, 11:48 IST

Congress MPs Address Air Pollution Crisis

On Thursday, December 4, 2025, Congress lawmakers raised concerns regarding the escalating air pollution levels in Delhi-NCR and other regions of North India by submitting an adjournment motion notice in the Lok Sabha. Manickam Tagore, Manish Tewari, and Vijaykumar alias Vijay Vasant urged the central government to declare pollution a national health emergency.

Sonia Gandhi, the leader of the Congress parliamentary party, expressed her worries about the air quality situation in the national capital, emphasizing the government's responsibility to take action.

During the winter session, Sonia Gandhi staged a protest with opposition MPs in the Parliament complex, demanding a discussion on air pollution. She stated, "It is the government's duty to act. Young children suffering from asthma are struggling to breathe, and many elderly individuals like myself are also facing difficulties."

Criticism from Congress Leaders

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the air pollution crisis. She remarked, "What enjoyment can one have in this weather? Look outside to see the current situation; as Sonia Ji mentioned, young children are unable to breathe."

She asserted that the situation worsens every year without any substantial measures being taken, stressing the need for concrete actions.

Air Quality Update

According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), there was a notable improvement in Delhi's air quality on Thursday morning, with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 299 by 8 AM. In comparison, the AQI was 342 at 4 PM on December 3, categorizing it as 'very poor.' The CPCB indicated that some areas of the national capital saw improvements, placing them in the 'poor' category. Najafgarh recorded an AQI of 286, while IGI Airport T3 reported 255. Aravind Marg and North Campus registered AQIs of 283 and 281, respectively.

Persistent Smog Issues

Despite the slight improvements, many parts of the city remained enveloped in a thick layer of toxic smog. Areas like Ghazipur and Akshardham experienced dense fog early in the morning, significantly reducing visibility. The CPCB noted that several regions in the national capital fell into the 'very poor' category.