बच्चों की जान जोखिम में, दिल्ली की सड़कों पर दौड़ रहीं हजारों अनियंत्रित स्कूल वैन!

By: Ravi Nitesh

https://janjwar.com/education/delhi-ncr-school-van-safety-children-at-risk-delhi-ncr-school-van-suraksha-bachchon-ki-jaan-khatre-mein-ravi-nitesh-comment-990585 

देश के लगभग सभी शहरी क्षेत्रों और विशेषकर दिल्ली एनसीआर में इस तरह के हालत में स्कूली वैन्स देखना चिंताजनक है, लेकिन संजीदगी से देखने पर पता चलता है कि दरसल स्कूली वैन्स का यह मुद्दा एक ऐसा संवेदनशील मुद्दा है जो हर रोज़ जोखिम भरा है और जिस पर सरकारी नियंत्रण होना आवश्यक है। 

किसी भी साधारण प्राइवेट या सवारी गाडी के मुकाबले स्कूली वैन्स पर अधिक ध्यान देना ज़रूरी इसलिए है कि उसमें अधिक संख्या में अबोध बच्चे यात्रा करते हैं जो स्वयं संभावित जोखिमों या आपात स्थिति से बचने में उतने सक्षम नहीं हैं जितने वयस्क। दिल्ली एनसीआर में चलने वाली अधिकतर स्कूली वैन्स सरकारी या स्कूल के स्वामित्व में न होकर निजी तौर पर संचालित की जा रही है। ऐसे में इनके संचालन से सम्बन्धित नियंत्रक मानक पूरे नहीं किये जा रहे हैं।

सीधे तौर पर एक आम व्यक्ति भी देखकर यह बता सकता है कि जितनी ज़्यादा संख्या में इन वैन्स में बच्चे भरे जाते हैं, वह सीधे तौर पर मानकों का उल्लंघन है। कई वैन्स में तो बच्चे इस कदर ठूंसे जाते हैं कि उन्हें घुटन भी होती होगी। क्षमता से कहीं अधिक बच्चों के साथ यात्रा करती इन वैन्स के चालक ज़्यादा फेरे करने चक्कर में बहोत तेज़ और और मनमाने तरीके से वाहन चलाते हुए देखे जा सकते हैं। इनमें से कई चालक आवश्यक ड्राइविंग लाइसेंस रखते भी हैं या नहीं यह सदेहास्पद है। वैन्स में छोटे बच्चे यात्रा कर रहे होते हैं, ऐसे में केवल एक असत्यापित ड्राइवर के भरोसे उनको छोड़ देना भी विश्वासप्रद संचालन नहीं है।

इसके अतिरिक्त, इनमे से तमाम वैन्स की ढाँचागत स्थिति खराब है और वो देखने में ही जर्जर हैं। कई में CNG सिलिंडर्स लगे हैं जो किसी अधिकृत स्थान से लगवाए गए हैं या नहीं, उन पर लगी टेस्टिंग प्लेट असली है या नकली, वैन्स की निर्धारित सर्विस नियमित अंतराल पर हो रही है या नहीं, आदि तमाम ऐसे प्रश्न हैं जो अनुत्तरित हैं और इनमें चूक होने पर ये किसी भी दुर्घटना को बुलावा दे सकते हैं।

दिल्ली में वायु प्रदूषण की समस्या सर्वविदित है, लेकिन स्कूल जाने वाले बच्चों पर इसके सीधे असर पर कम चर्चा होती है। पुरानी गाड़ियों या ठीक से रखरखाव न की गई वैन्स से निकलने वाले बारीक कण और नाइट्रोजन ऑक्साइड का स्तर अधिक होता है और इसलिए इस तरह की वैन्स का संचालन पर्यावरण को भी प्रभावित कर रहा है।

यद्यपि लाखों परिवारों के लिए यह अनौपचारिक स्कूल वैन एक अनिवार्य सहारा है लेकिन जब इसे नगर नियोजन, पर्यावरण, सार्वजनिक स्वास्थ्य और बच्चों की सुरक्षा और उनके विकास के नजरिए से देखा जाए, तो हजारों अनियमित और जीवाश्म ईंधन से चलने वाली वैनों पर दिल्ली की यह निर्भरता शहरी व्यवस्था की एक गंभीर कमी को उजागर करती है।

एक अनुमान के अनुसार दिल्ली में लगभग 40,000 से अधिक निजी वैनें स्कूल कैब के रूप में इस्तेमाल हो रही हैं, लेकिन इनमें से 10,000 से भी कम दिल्ली सरकार के परिवहन विभाग से पंजीकृत हैं। लगभग 30,000 से अधिक अनौपचारिक ईको-वैन, जो अक्सर पुरानी तकनीकों या अनधिकृत सीएनजी किट पर चलती हैं, बिना व्यावसायिक परमिट, अनिवार्य सुरक्षा जांच या स्पीड गवर्नर के रोज़ाना सड़कों पर दौड़ रही हैं। बच्चों के शोषण और उनकी सुरक्षा के मद्देनजर राष्ट्रीय बाल अधिकार संरक्षण आयोग ने भी इस वाहनों के ऑडिट हेतु संस्तुति दी थी जिससे अभी तक कोई प्रभावी परिणाम धरातल पर नहीं दिखा।

स्कूल इस मामले में अपनी जिम्मेदारी से बचते हैं और बच्चों को ऐसे वाहनों से भेजे जाने में अभिभावकों की जिम्मेदारी बताते हैं। ऐसे में केवल सरकार ही एक मात्र माध्यम है जिसको इस तरह के वाहनों को नियंत्रित करना होगा।

दिल्ली में एक सुगम व्यवस्था के अधीन स्कूल कैब्स का परिवहन विभाग में पंजीकरण और डिजिटल प्लेटफार्म पर इसकी जानकारी अनिवार्य की जानी चाहिए। साथ ही इस डिजिटल प्लेटफार्म में वाहन मालिक और चालक के दस्तावेज, कामर्शियल लाइसेंस की वैधता और साथ ही वाहन की वैधता, सीएनजी किट की वैधता, सीएनजी सिलेंडर की जानकारी और समय समय इसकी सर्विस और फिटनेस का रिकार्ड उपलब्ध होना चाहिए। सभी स्कूल कैब चालकों का पुलिस सत्यापन आवश्यक हो और एक पुलिस स्टेशन के अन्तर्गत आने वाले स्कूलों से संबद्ध सभी कैब की जानकारी पुलिस रिकॉर्ड में देना अनिवार्य किया जाए। स्कूली वैन्स में किसी भी अनधिकृत बदलाव को मंजूरी न दी जाय, बच्चों की संख्या को सख्ती से निर्धारित किया जाए और स्पीड गवर्नर लगाकर उनकी अधिकतम गति को निर्धारित किया जाए। वैन्स को जीपीएस और कैमरे लगाना अनिवार्य हो। वैन्स के अंदर और बाहर बड़े अक्षरों में टोल फ्री नंबर लिखे जाएँ और किसी आम नागरिक द्वारा भी किसी स्कूली वैन की शिकायत दर्ज की जा सके।

अभिभावकों का वित्तीय शोषण रोकने के लिए दूरी, समय और सुविधाओं के आधार पर इस तरह के वैन्स की मासिक शुल्क सीमा निर्धारित की जाए और स्कूलों को भी व्यवस्था में भागीदार और जिम्मेदार बनाया जाय। स्वच्छ ईंधन, उचित नियोजन और सुरक्षा मानकों को अपनाकर दिल्ली अपनी सड़कों को सुगम, अपने पर्यावरण को हरित और बच्चों के भविष्य को सुरक्षित बना सकती है।

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Urban Waste Management (Domestic Sector) in Delhi : A Call for Collective Responsibility and Five Key Areas to Focus

 By: Ravi Nitesh | Published: https://countercurrents.org/2025/09/urban-waste-management-domestic-sector-in-delhi-a-call-for-collective-responsibility-and-five-key-areas-to-focus/ 

Recently, due to rain, waterlogging was a common sight in many parts of Delhi-NCR. Amidst this, a cleanliness drive by some foreign nationals in Gurgaon, who gathered garbage from around the roads, became a subject of public curiosity.

The proper management and disposal of garbage are a major challenge for almost all urban economies worldwide. The continuous burden on cities, the influx of people seeking a better life, the difficulties of urban housing, and the impact of physical resources for development are all factors that make waste management in cities even more difficult. All these factors are human-induced, and the best solution to this problem can only be found through human efforts.

Delhi is not untouched by this problem. As the national capital, this issue can be seen on all the roads and in all the areas of the entire National Capital Region. Instead of leaving the problem as it is at the government level, a meaningful initiative in this direction also offers hope. One such initiative was the "Delhi ko Koode se Azaadi" (Freedom for Delhi from Garbage) campaign. This month-long campaign, which was started with great fanfare on August 1st, is a meaningful effort to raise awareness towards the goal of transforming Delhi into a clean, green, and garbage-free metropolis by the end of August. The recent attempt by the Chief Minister to clear Delhi's mountains of garbage within a year is another ambitious initiative, yet the fundamental question remains: Can a centralized campaign, no matter how well-intentioned, truly free Delhi from its persistent garbage problem?

In many countries outside of India, the cleanliness of public places and roads impresses tourists. There are various reasons for this, but it is noteworthy that citizens themselves are very sensitive to it, and for them, cleanliness is not a campaign but a part of their normal lifestyle. Littering in public places there is met with scorn, whereas on the roads of Delhi, you can easily find educated people in big cars throwing food packets, paan, and tobacco.

The ground reality in Delhi presents a picture where overflowing dhalaos (garbage collection centers), inadequate manpower for door-to-door garbage collection, and a lack of modern waste disposal vehicles are persistent problems that create difficulties. Sewer cleaning still has not eliminated safety hazards. Even on the city's main roads, for example, near Dabri and Pankha Road, you can always find garbage, foul smells, and animals in the open for almost a kilometer.

The city generates an estimated 13,000 tons of garbage daily, but a significant portion, approximately 3,800 tons, remains untreated, leading to the accumulation of huge waste piles in landfills like Ghazipur, Bhalswa, and Okhla. These massive garbage dumps are not just an eyesore; they are environmental time bombs that emit powerful greenhouse gases, contaminate groundwater with toxic leachate, and often catch fire, worsening Delhi's already critical air quality.

To truly gain freedom from garbage is a slow, long-term but permanent task that should be worked upon in five key areas. First: Focus on people's behavior and sensitivity so that they produce minimal waste, and ensure that every household has a proper and accessible place for garbage. Second: The modernization of dhalaos in different areas and the deployment of human resources for their maintenance, cleaning of the dhalaos and their surroundings, so that people can go there to deposit garbage, instead of avoiding the area due to the filth and smell. Third: More dustbins in public places and their regular management, clean and more public urinals and toilets; strict prohibition of harmful polythene, and a comprehensive effort for the stray animals in the city. Fourth: Coordination and commitment between government bodies and citizen groups, modernization of waste management with technology, modern machines, better workforce, and safety provisions. The disposal and transportation of garbage should be done at night. Fifth: Regular integrated monitoring of all these efforts and a review within a fixed period to make necessary improvements.

If these five groups, which bring all stakeholders from the source of waste production to its disposal onto a single platform, and integrated efforts can be made regarding general behavior, technology, rules and regulations, law, etc., then a positive change in the situation can definitely be seen.

 

By:

Ravi Nitesh

(Ravi Nitesh is a youth activist and founder of Mission Bhartiyam. He can be reached at mail@ravinitesh.com)

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A Peace Code: From Action to Theory

By: Ravi Nitesh https://countercurrents.org/2025/09/a-peace-code-from-action-to-theory/ After the Pahalgam terror attack and thereafter Operation Sindoor which aimed for a focused and precise target to terror infrastructure, relations between India and Pakistan touched a new height of tension. From the suspension of Indus Water Treaty to closure of Kartarpur Peace Corridor and the already restricted cross border travels and transportation, steps to connect were curbed. These steps taken by the Indian nation were meant to express anger and dissent to the persistence of cross-border terrorism. However, the future, as we all know, exists only in peaceful relations. No two countries with their borders touching each other should stay in long conflict with each other. For India-Pakistan in particular, where people on both sides are part of one culture, any long sustaining tension or conflict would only affect them negatively. We must also remember that treaties and policies do not completely decide the future of peace. Rather, it is people of the region who decide and demand for peace. Thus, peace supporters are required to make efforts to create an enabling culture and environment for peace. This will also, in turn, make governments feel that they have the mandate to pursue peacebuilding measures. “Peace” – for many of us, the word itself feels like a complex, slow process that is negotiated by diplomats for reaching agreements. For ordinary peace workers, the word connotes hope for the future. We all believe in it, we all advocate for it, but we do not have a clear or actionable toolkit that can guide us to use it in our own lives, in our communities, and across the divides that define our world.

This inspired me to design a kind of thumb rule which peace workers can keep in mind. I have come up with a “Peace Code” which can be an action-oriented framework to guide any individual who yearns for a more peaceful world. It draws upon my years of cross-border peacebuilding experience primarily through Aaghaz-e-Dosti, an India-Pakistan friendship initiative that I have co-founded. I have seen first-hand how simple, personal connections can dismantle the most formidable of barriers. The PEACE Code is a summarised code of these experiences, breaking down the abstract notion of peace into five interconnected, actionable principles: Practical Ethical Action-oriented Critical Thinking Empathy The first principle, P for Practical, is a deliberate rejection of theory for the sake of theory. Our world is full of brilliant academic papers on conflict resolution, but genuine peace begins with tangible steps. It is not about waiting for a world leader to sign a treaty. It’s about a student in India picking up a pen to write a letter to a student in Pakistan, or two strangers from opposing sides of a conflict meeting on a video call. These are not just symbolic gestures; they are physical, practical acts that create real, human connections and challenge the dehumanizing narratives that fuel division. Being practical also entails the need to distinguish between pursuing peacebuilding out of emotion, fantasy or romanticism, and engaging in peacebuilding with objectivity, understanding the many risks and sensitivity that it may involve. It is not to argue that idealism has no place in peacebuilding. It does. It is what can drive passion. It is what can spark imaginations. However, it has its limits. Peacebuilding work should be seen as real work where serious and mature efforts are required to be made in line with what is required at that point of time. Next, E for Ethical reminds us that the means must be as pure as the end. In the complex world of peace-building, it’s easy to justify a quick fix or a compromise that might leave some people behind. But a peace that is built on an unethical foundation—one that lacks honesty, transparency, or a commitment to justice—is a fragile peace, destined to crumble. Our framework insists that peace practitioners, whether professional or citizen, must operate with unwavering integrity, ensuring that their actions are fair, just, and transparent. For peace practitioners everywhere and particularly in India and Pakistan, there is also a need to focus upon following rules and regulations framed by governments, applying common sense to fall in any trap that compromises national security. A for Action-oriented, a principle that recognizes peace as an active verb, not a static state. Good intentions are a starting point, but they are insufficient. We must move from believing in peace to actively working for it. This means consistently showing up, whether it’s to facilitate a difficult conversation, volunteer for a community project, or simply choose empathy over anger in a debate. Action-oriented peace is the engine that transforms our dreams into reality, one deliberate choice at a time. It is to remind us that affirmative action is to be prioritised over any reaction. C for Critical Thinking, a skill that is perhaps more vital now than ever before. To truly build peace, we must be willing to question the dominant narratives, challenge our own biases, and dig into the root causes of conflict. This critical thinking must guide us to see a fact in a 360 degree view where all available narratives should be understood. Any knowledge that is available to us is situated, due to our particular identity and location, be it nationality, region, religion, caste, gender etc. Hence, our knowledge is just one set of knowledge and thus needs to be completed through knowing the knowledge that others have. Finally, the foundation of the entire framework is E for Empathy. This is the most difficult but most transformative component of the PEACE Code. Empathy is the ability to see and feel the humanity of those on the other side of a divide. It’s what happens when a student in India reads a letter from a peer in Pakistan and realizes they share the same hopes, fears, and dreams. Empathy is the bridge that connects us when everything else seems to be pushing us apart. It’s the ultimate antidote to the dehumanization that enables conflict. The PEACE Code is not a theoretical model. Drawn from the experiences and learnings of individuals working to build bridges, it is a reminder that peace is not a distant ideal, but a tangible practice that begins with you and me. My hope is that peace practitioners and everyday citizens alike will embrace this code and use it as a simple, powerful tool to transform their own lives and the world around them – one practical, ethical, action-oriented, critically thought-out, and empathetic step at a time. Ravi Nitesh is an India-based peace practitioner and social activist with over 15 years of experience in social activism. He is founder of Mission Bhartiyam, a voluntary organisation for social change. He has also co-founded cross-border friendship initiative, Aaghaz-e-Dosti. He tweets at @ravinitesh

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India-Pakistan Need a Path to Sustainable Peace

The path to sustainable peace will not be easy. There will be setbacks, and there will always be those who seek to derail the peace process. Sometimes, even conflict is framed as a path to larger peace—but such actions must always be the absolute last resort. Nations must ensure that voices of hatred do not drown out those of reason and compassion. https://southasiamonitor.org/spotlight/india-pakistan-need-path-sustainable-peace The recent terrorist attack on tourists in Pahalgam is a tragedy that goes far beyond the immediate loss of life. It is a stark reminder of the deep wounds in our shared history and the toxic legacy of the India-Pakistan conflict. Anyone with a heart for humanity is deeply pained by the events in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. As an Indian and a peace activist committed to fostering understanding between our nations, my heart aches—not only for the victims and their families, but also for the countless missed opportunities for peace and reconciliation that such acts of violence represent. Though it is rare for tourists to be directly targeted in terrorist attacks, this is not the first time innocent lives—be they civilians or security personnel—have been lost to senseless violence. In the aftermath of such attacks, we often see a familiar cycle: outrage, condemnation, and calls for retribution. These are voices we've heard before, on both sides of the border. They echo division, hatred, and warmongering. Decades of conflict have brought only suffering, bloodshed, and generations lost to violence. Voices of peace and sanity amid tensions The Pahalgam attack has, as expected, heightened tensions between India and Pakistan to dangerous levels. Diplomatic actions are underway, as they usually are in such moments. Social media is ablaze with a complex mix of emotions—and disturbingly, a growing wave of jingoism. Yet amid this, many voices are urging patience and restraint, advocating a path away from aggression. The current situation is volatile, and it is uncertain whether actions from both sides will remain within the realm of diplomacy or escalate further. Still, even in this tense atmosphere, there are individuals and groups—on both sides—calling for sustainable solutions and long-term peace. Terrorism brings only destruction: lives lost, futures shattered, and trust eroded. It is an evil that must be eradicated—for the good of India, Pakistan, and the world. Diplomatic setbacks and lost progress What is also concerning is the erosion of hard-won diplomatic progress. Agreements such as the Indus Waters Treaty, the Shimla Agreement, and even the visa regimes represent milestones both nations painstakingly achieved. Suspending or undermining them is a collective failure. Pakistan’s responsibility Evidence points toward the involvement of Pakistan-based terror groups and the free movement of certain terrorists within its borders. Whatever the justification or rationale, the use of terrorism as a strategic tool can never be morally or politically acceptable. Pakistan must take concrete action to eliminate terror networks operating from its soil. The people of both India and Pakistan deserve sustainable peace. India, as one of the world’s five largest economies and a vibrant hub of innovation, offers a model of growth and opportunity. This positive momentum can inspire Pakistan and neighboring countries to pursue similar paths of development and cooperation. In the wake of the Pahalgam tragedy—where India is clearly the victim—Pakistan bears a greater responsibility. It must demonstrate a sincere commitment to combating terrorism and fostering an environment conducive to peace. This also means reaching out to India with genuine intent and compassion. India’s role and Kashmir’s future At the same time, India must reflect on its own policies and identify gaps in security and governance. Policymakers should also recognize the grievances of the Kashmiri people and work toward addressing them through inclusive political dialogue. Kashmir has endured the brunt of terrorism for decades, and its people deserve lasting peace. While reviewing security lapses is essential, doing so should never imply that a lapse or withdrawal of security justifies terrorism. India has often faced criticism over its military presence in Kashmir, yet the absence of security personnel has, in the past, also led to deadly attacks. Cross-border terrorism, terror financing, and drug smuggling from Pakistan are documented challenges. Therefore, Pakistan must dismantle terror infrastructure and cease using terrorism as a tool of strategy. If there are genuine issues, dialogue—not violence—should be the only channel. Turning tragedy into opportunity Beyond immediate measures, there is a pressing need for long-term efforts. People on both sides share a common history, culture, and interconnected futures. This future should not be one of perpetual conflict but of cooperation. Both nations must focus on building bridges, not walls—through people-to-people exchanges, enhanced trade, and joint action on common challenges like poverty and climate change. The path to sustainable peace will not be easy. There will be setbacks, and there will always be those who seek to derail the peace process. Sometimes, even conflict is framed as a path to larger peace—but such actions must always be the absolute last resort. Nations must ensure that voices of hatred do not drown out those of reason and compassion. Let the tragedy of Pahalgam not be just another chapter in the painful saga of India-Pakistan relations. Let it be a turning point—a catalyst for change, and a vision for a future where both countries coexist in harmony and mutual respect. The author is a freelance writer and peace activist. He is the founder of Aaghaz-e-Dosti, an Indo-Pak friendship initiative. Views expressed are personal. He can be reached at ravinitesh@gmail.com / https://muckrack.com/ravinitesh.) Read more at: https://southasiamonitor.org/spotlight/india-pakistan-need-path-sustainable-peace

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Talk for a better tomorrow : India and Pakistan in SCO Meet

By: Ravi Nitesh https://countercurrents.org/2024/10/talk-for-a-better-tomorrow-india-and-pakistan-in-sco-meet/ As many leaders from member countries of SCO are participating in its meeting, there must be many important agendas, particularly in this phase of time when the world is facing instability in terms of peace due to ongoing conflicts in Russia-Ukraine and around Israel. Any such regional organisation, like SCO, has its agenda that focuses on regional peace, progress and prosperity. India’s Foreign Minister, Dr. Jaishankar is also participating in this multilateral meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). His participation and information about his visit to Pakistan received much coverage in the media. Social media also witnessed many comments in favour and in opposition of his visit, however it is seen as progressive and required steps by many progressive thinkers. While the official agenda of the visit revolves around the SCO meeting and Dr. Jaishankar specifically said that there would not be any bilateral meeting with Pakistan, there has been much speculation about the possibility of some meetings between India and Pakistan on the sidelines. Even if no bilateral occurs, this decision of his visit is a positive sign and it comes amidst a backdrop of heightened tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. The recent skirmishes along the Line of Control (LoC) and the ongoing diplomatic standoff have further complicated the bilateral relationship and no bilateral talks occurred between two sides since long. India and Pakistan have a long and complex history, marked by periods of cooperation and conflict. The Partition of India in 1947 led to a bitter rivalry between the two nations, with disputes over Kashmir, water resources, and other issues fuelling tensions. The countries have fought several wars and turbulent conditions remain frequent on borders. Despite numerous attempts at peace talks and confidence-building measures, the relationship between India and Pakistan has remained fragile. The nuclear arms race between the two countries has further heightened the stakes, making any conflict between them potentially catastrophic. The continued animosity between India and Pakistan is not only detrimental to the bilateral relationship but also has broader implications for regional stability. The unresolved disputes between the two countries have cast a shadow over South Asia and other regions hindering economic development, cooperation, and regional integration. There is a growing recognition that the only way forward for India and Pakistan is through peaceful coexistence and cooperation. A stable and prosperous South Asia requires a resolution of the longstanding disputes between the two countries. India has consistently maintained that it is committed to a peaceful and cooperative relationship with Pakistan. The government has taken several steps to reach out to Pakistan, including initiating dialogue and proposing confidence-building measures. Together, both sides have achieved major things to restore trust and peace, but every time there have also been attempts to derail such trust building measures. We must hope that the SCO meeting will provide an opportunity for constructive dialogue and cooperation between the two countries as any regional prosperity, progress and peace cannot take shape without cohesiveness among participants. While there may not be any formal bilateral talks during this visit, the presence of Indian and Pakistani representatives at the same forum can foster informal interactions and build trust. The path towards a peaceful and prosperous future for India and Pakistan is fraught with challenges. There are deep-rooted mistrust and historical grievances that need to be addressed. However, it is imperative for both countries to recognize the importance of resolving their differences and working towards a shared vision for the region. As a part of people’s campaign for peace, we have seen the desire of people on both sides who dream for a peaceful tomorrow. Both sides are connected historically and culturally wherein the roots of families are connected. We have seen Aaghaz-e-Dosti Indo-Pak Peace Calendar initiative, which involves school students from both countries creating peace-themed paintings, wherein students express desire for a better tomorrow and this is not only desire or dream of students, but their right too. A lasting solution to the conflicts between India and Pakistan will require a combination of political will, diplomatic efforts, and people-to-people engagement. The future of South Asia depends on the ability of the two countries to overcome their differences and work towards a peaceful and prosperous future. While the immediate prospects for a breakthrough in Indo-Pak relations may seem bleak, the visit of India’s Foreign Minister to Pakistan for the SCO meeting offers a glimmer of hope. SCO members may also consider making efforts to break the ice. SCO, as a regional group, has major countries like Russia, China, Iran, India and Pakistan and these nations spend a good sum of their economy on arms, which can be utilised in the welfare of people with gradual steps towards more stable, more peaceful regions. The road ahead is undoubtedly challenging, but it is imperative for India and Pakistan to recognize the importance of peaceful coexistence and cooperation. By working together to resolve their differences, the two countries can not only improve their bilateral relationship but also contribute to a more stable and prosperous South Asia and other nearby regions. Let’s talk for a better tomorrow !! Ravi Nitesh is founder of Aaghaz-e-Dosti, an Indo-Pak Friendship Initiative

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India’s Urban Air Pollution Crisis: Need of Urgent and Innovative Actions

Published:

https://countercurrents.org/2024/09/indias-urban-air-pollution-crisis-need-of-urgent-and-innovative-actions/ 

https://www.dailygoodmorningkashmir.com/need-of-urgent-and-innovative-actions/ 

According to the six-monthly report of Center for Research on Energy and Clean Air, Delhi was the third most polluted city in India, where the amount of PM 2.5 was found to be 20 times more than the standard set by the World Health Organization. The report said that among the 10 most polluted cities in India, 3 are from Haryana, 2 from Rajasthan, 2 from Uttar Pradesh and 1 each from Delhi, Assam and Bihar.

While Indian cities are known as vibrant and bustling centers of culture and creativity, but now these cities are grappling with the threat of air pollution, which is posing a serious threat to public health in homes, schools and workplaces. The scale of the problem is worrying, with many Indian cities being among the most polluted in the world and despite all this, there is so much social and political apathy that environment or clean air could not become a major issue in the recently concluded parliamentary elections.

There is a complex relationship between factors behind India’s urban air pollution crisis. Emissions from vehicles, industrial activities, dust and other particles from construction work and burning of agricultural waste, all contribute to the toxic mix present in the air. The growing number of cars, buses and two-wheelers on Indian roads has led to a significant increase in particulate matter and harmful gases. Industrial emissions, especially from power plants, steel mills and refineries, also play an important role in pollution. At a recent session of the India Clean Air Summit in Bengaluru, it was told that many of the factors affecting urban pollution are also present in other small towns and semi-urban areas located on the outskirts of the cities. Therefore, the municipal bodies of a particular city alone cannot prevent urban pollution, but there is a need to make an integrated policy for this.

The greatest need to prevent air pollution is due to its devastating health consequences. Exposure to polluted air causes a variety of diseases, including respiratory infections, heart disease, stroke, lung cancer and premature death. Children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of air pollution and their cognitive development and lung function can be affected. According to statistics, every year around 80 lakh people are losing their lives due to air pollution related reasons all over the world and fifty percent of this number is from India and China alone. Its economic reasons are also no less important because according to the World Bank report, India is losing about $ 36 billion (about Rs 2.7 lakh crore) a year due to premature deaths and diseases caused by air pollution.

However, understanding the seriousness of the air pollution crisis, the Government of India has implemented several initiatives to address this problem. These include the National Clean Air Program (NCAP), which aims to reduce particulate matter pollution in cities. Additionally, the government has promoted the use of public transport, natural gas and electric vehicles to reduce emissions from vehicles.

The challenges in implementing effective air pollution control measures are also not less. Rapid urbanization, economic growth and increasing demand for energy have put pressure on infrastructure and resources. In addition, pollution factors in the informal economic structure are often difficult to regulate.

A multi-pronged approach is needed to tackle India’s urban air pollution crisis. Strengthening government policies and regulations to ensure compliance with environmental standards and investment in public transport and infrastructure to reduce dependence on private vehicles is essential. Promoting clean technologies and renewable energy sources can help reduce industrial emissions. But the most important thing is public awareness and participation. Citizens should be empowered to demand clean air and hold governments accountable. Community-based suggestions should be made part of discussions to reduce pollution at the local level. Offbeat suggestions and ideas also need to be considered. The Delhi government’s odd-even formula was one such idea. Ideas like differentiating the timings of schools, colleges and offices, regulating battery-based e-rickshaws, encouraging offices with one type of work to have a single timing and flexi timings, increasing the facility of employee buses when more than a certain number of people are working at one place, etc. need to be considered.

Ravi Nitesh is founder of Mission Bhartiyam, a voluntary organisation working for peace, environment, women empowerment and other development related issues.

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विमर्श की राह खोजता भारत का शहरी वायु प्रदूषण संकट

एकीकृत विमर्श की राह खोजता भारत का शहरी वायु प्रदूषण संकट

 Published: Dainik Jagran, National Edition, 11 Sep 2024

मानसून के बाद ठण्ड आने की आहट के साथ ही दिल्ली में प्रदूषण की चर्चा एक बार फिर होने लगी है। पक्ष - विपक्ष अपनी अपनी तरह से इस विषय पर आवाज़ उठा रहे हैं। लेकिन इस महत्वपूर्ण विषय पर जिसमें हर एक व्यक्ति का प्रभावित होना निश्चित है, और यह समस्या केवल दिल्ली तक सीमित नहीं है ,इस पर संयुक्त विमर्श दिखाई नहीं पड़ता। 

भारत के शहर यहाँ की सामाजिक बनावट के अनुसार उदासीन न होकर, जीवंत और चहल-पहल वाले केंद्र के रूप में जाने जाते हैं। लेकिन अब ये शहर वायु प्रदूषण के खतरे से जूझ रहे हैं जिससे घरों, स्कूलों और कार्यस्थलों में सार्वजनिक स्वास्थ्य के लिए गंभीर खतरा उत्पन्न हो रहा है। समस्या का पैमाना चिंताजनक है, जिसमें कई भारतीय शहर दुनिया के सबसे प्रदूषित शहरों में शुमार हैं और इन सबके बावजूद सामजिक राजनीतिक उदासीनता इतनी है कि हाल में सम्पन्न संसदीय चुनावों में पर्यावरण या साफ़ हवा कोई विशेष मुद्दा नहीं बन सका था।

भारत के शहरी वायु प्रदूषण संकट के पीछे अनेक कारकों का आपस में एक जटिल सम्बन्ध है। वाहनों से निकलने वाला उत्सर्जन, औद्योगिक गतिविधियाँ, निर्माण कार्यों से निकलते धूल और अन्य पदार्थों के कण और कृषि अपशिष्टों को जलाना, ये सभी हवा में मौजूद जहरीले मिश्रण में योगदान करते हैं। भारतीय सड़कों पर कारों, बसों और दोपहिया वाहनों की बढ़ती संख्या ने पार्टिकुलेट मैटर और हानिकारक गैसों में काफ़ी बढ़ोत्तरी की है। औद्योगिक उत्सर्जन, विशेष रूप से बिजली संयंत्रों, स्टील मिलों और रिफाइनरियों से होने वाला उत्सर्जन की भी, प्रदूषण में, एक महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका है। इंडिया क्लीन एयर सम्मिट के बेंगलुरु में हाल ही में सम्पन्न एक अधिवेशन में बताया गया कि शहरी प्रदूषण को प्रभावित करने वाले बहुत से कारक शहरों के किनारे पर बसे अन्य छोटे शहर और अर्ध शहरी क्षेत्र में भी हैं। इसलिए केवल किसी शहर विशेष के नगरीय निकाय अकेले ही शहरी प्रदूषण की रोकथाम नहीं कर सकते , बल्कि इसके लिए समेकित नीति बनाने की आवश्यकता है। 

सेंटर फॉर रिसर्च ऑन एनर्जी एंड क्लीन एयर की वर्ष 2024 की पहली छमाही की रिपोर्ट के अनुसार दिल्ली भारत का तीसरा सबसे प्रदूषित शहर रहा, जहाँ PM 2.5 की मात्रा विश्व स्वास्थ्य संगठन द्वारा निर्धारित मानक से 20 गुना अधिक पायी गयी। रिपोर्ट में बताया गया कि भारत के 10 सबसे प्रदूषित शहरों में 3 हरियाणा , २ राजस्थान, 2 उत्तर प्रदेश एवं दिल्ली,असम और बिहार के 1 - 1 शहर शामिल हैं। यह आश्चर्य है कि देश का सबसे प्रदूषित शहर उत्तर भारत का नहीं बल्कि असम - मेघालय सीमा पर स्थित बिरनिहात पाया गया। 

वायु प्रदूषण के रोकथाम की सबसे महती आवश्यकता इसके विनाशकारी स्वास्थ्य परिणामों के कारण हैं। प्रदूषित हवा के संपर्क में आने से कई तरह की बीमारियाँ होती हैं, जिनमें श्वसन संक्रमण, हृदय रोग, स्ट्रोक, फेफड़ों का कैंसर और समय से पहले मृत्यु शामिल हैं। वायु प्रदूषण के प्रभावों के प्रति बच्चे विशेष रूप से संवेदनशील होते हैं और उनके संज्ञानात्मक विकास और फेफड़ों की कार्यक्षमता प्रभावित हो सकती है। आंकड़ों के अनुसार प्रतिवर्ष पूरी दुनिया में लगभग 80 लाख लोग वायु प्रदुषण से सम्बंधित कारणों से अपनी जान गँवा रहे हैं और इसका पचास प्रतिशत अकेले भारत और चीन की संख्या है। इसके आर्थिक कारण भी कम महत्वपूर्ण नहीं है क्यूंकि वर्ल्ड बैंक की रिपोर्ट के अनुसार वायु प्रदूषण के कारण समय से पहले होने वाली मृत्यु और रोगों के कारण भारत को एक साल में तकरीबन 36 बिलियन डालर (लगभग २.7 लाख करोड़ रुपये) का नुक्सान हो रहा है। 

हालांकि वायु प्रदूषण संकट की गंभीरता को समझते हुए, भारत सरकार ने इस समस्या के समाधान के लिए कई पहलों को लागू किया है। इनमें राष्ट्रीय स्वच्छ वायु कार्यक्रम (NCAP) शामिल है, जिसका उद्देश्य शहरों में पार्टिकुलेट मैटर प्रदूषण कम करना है। इसके अतिरिक्त, सरकार ने वाहनों से होने वाले उत्सर्जन को कम करने के लिए सार्वजनिक परिवहन, प्राकृतिक गैस और इलेक्ट्रिक वाहनों के उपयोग को बढ़ावा दिया है।

प्रभावी वायु प्रदूषण नियंत्रण उपायों को लागू करने में चुनौतियों भी कम नहीं हैं। तेजी से बढ़ते शहरीकरण, आर्थिक विकास और ऊर्जा की बढ़ती मांग ने बुनियादी ढांचे और संसाधनों पर दबाव डाला है। इसके अलावा, अनौपचारिक आर्थिक संरचना में प्रदूषण के कारकों को अक्सर विनियमित करना मुश्किल होता है।

भारत के शहरी वायु प्रदूषण संकट से निपटने के लिए एक बहुआयामी दृष्टिकोण की आवश्यकता है। पर्यावरण मानकों के अनुपालन को सुनिश्चित करने के लिए सरकारी नीतियों और नियमों को मजबूत किया जाना एवं निजी वाहनों पर निर्भरता कम करने के लिए सार्वजनिक परिवहन और बुनियादी ढांचे में निवेश आवश्यक है। स्वच्छ प्रौद्योगिकियों और नवीकरणीय ऊर्जा स्रोतों को बढ़ावा देने से औद्योगिक उत्सर्जन को कम करने में मदद मिल सकती है। लेकिन सबसे महत्वपूर्ण है सार्वजनिक जागरूकता और भागीदारी। नागरिकों को स्वच्छ हवा की मांग करने और सरकारों को जवाबदेह ठहराने के लिए सशक्त बनाया जाना चाहिए। समुदाय-आधारित सुझावों को स्थानीय स्तर पर प्रदूषण कम करने में विचार विमर्श का हिस्सा बनाया जाना चाहिए। लीक से अलग हटकर भी सुझावों और विचारों पर ध्यान देने की ज़रूरत है। दिल्ली सरकार का ऑड इवन फार्मूला ऐसा ही विचार था। स्कूलों,कालेजों और कार्यालयों के समय में अंतर किया जाना, बैटरी आधारित इ रिक्शा को विनियमित किया जाना, एक प्रकार के कार्य करने वाले कार्यालयों को एक तरह की टाइमिंग और फ्लेक्सी टाइमिंग के लिए बढ़ावा दिया जाना, कुछ निश्चित संख्या से अधिक लोगों का एक स्थान पर कार्य किये जाने पर कर्मचारी बसों की सुविधा बढ़ाया जाना आदि विचारों पर ध्यान दिया जाना आवश्यक है। प्रदूषण की रोकथाम के लिए किसी एक सरकार या विभाग या मंत्रालय नहीं,बल्कि सबको मिलकर काम करना ही प्रभावी हो सकता है।

रवि नितेश 

(लेखक मिशन भारतीयम के संस्थापक हैं और  शांति, पर्यावरण तथा विकास के विषयों से जुड़े हुए हैं )

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