'New science?' Kejriwal mocks CM's 'AQI is like temperature' remark
What's the story
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta's remarks on using water sprinklers at pollution hotspots have drawn criticism from former CM Arvind Kejriwal. In an interview, Gupta had compared the Air Quality Index (AQI) to temperature when she was asked about accusations that water is being sprayed on pollution hotspots to understate actual readings. She said, "Does using a monitor bring down the AQI? AQI is like a temperature which you can know from any instrument. Watering is the only solution."
Data manipulation
Kejriwal accuses Gupta of hiding pollution data
Kejriwal took to X to hit back at Gupta's remarks. He said her comments confirmed allegations that the government was "hiding" pollution data. "The Chief Minister has at least accepted that wherever AQI monitors are installed, water spraying is being done....so that the truth about pollution doesn't reach the people of Delhi," he wrote. He further questioned the "science" behind Gupta's "AQI is temperature" remark. "When did this new science come about that AQI has now become temperature?" he added.
Data dispute
BJP under fire over pollution control measures
The Delhi BJP administration has come under fire for its tactics of dealing with growing AQI levels, after various videos on social media purported to show water being sprayed near AQI monitors to keep readings under control. The political tussle escalated after Gupta stated earlier this month that the Delhi administration intends to use mist spray technology to combat air pollution. According to her, the government would install 305 mist sprayers at nine pollution hotspots throughout the city.
Pollution strategy
Gupta defends government's long-term steps against pollution
Gupta has defended her government's long-term steps against pollution, calling Delhi's winter pollution a "legacy" issue. On Sunday, she lashed out at demonstrators who had gathered at India Gate to protest the deteriorating air quality, wondering why the same anger was missing during the previous AAP rule. "There is a backlog of 27 years. The government at least needs 27 months to work. After 27 months, you can ask me about the steps we have taken," she said.