Uddhav Thackeray : Sharp attack on rising pollution in Mumbai
As pollution in the Mumbai metropolitan area is taking on a terrifying form day by day, former Chief Minister and Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) party chief Uddhav Thackeray has strongly attacked the state government over it. Pointing out that air pollution in Mumbai has reached alarming levels in the past two to three years, he made it clear that there is an increasing threat to citizens' health. “The air in this city is now becoming unsafe even to breathe,” Thackeray emphasized, underlining the seriousness of the situation.
“Not clouds of a volcano… but an eruption of corruption!”
Uddhav Thackeray also alleged that the increase in pollution is not due to any natural phenomenon, but is a consequence of corruption in the state.
He said, “Some may think that a volcano erupted in Ethiopia and its clouds reached Mumbai. But the reality is different. The clouds gathered in this city are of corruption. It is the malpractice and commission-taking in the administration that has increased this pollution.” This statement generated considerable enthusiasm among the activists present in the meeting, and Thackeray’s speech was met with loud applause.
Rapid increase in pollution in Mumbai
Citizens are troubled due to the rising AQI in Mumbai. Increasing construction, traffic congestion, industrial smoke, and changes in weather have caused the levels of PM2.5 and PM10 dust particles in the air to reach dangerous levels over the past few years. Alongside this, many medical reports have revealed an increase in complaints such as respiratory disorders, eye irritation, allergies, and asthma.
Criticism of the government over the absence of a guardian minister in Nashik
On this occasion, he also raised questions about the preparations for Nashik's Kumbh Mela and the government's inactivity.
“It is the government's responsibility to ensure facilities for devotees and saints. But Nashik still does not have a guardian minister appointed. Why exactly is this delay? Is there some irregularity in the expenses for the Kumbh Mela?” Thackeray directly posed this question.
“Do not play with the health of Mumbaikars” - Thackeray
Accusing the state government of not taking the necessary steps for pollution control, Thackeray said, “This air is not just a city problem; it is a matter of life. It is due to corruption in the administration, poor planning, and neglect of rules that pollution is becoming uncontrollable. Do not play with people's health.”
Political atmosphere heated up
After Uddhav Thackeray's criticism, the political atmosphere in the state has become more heated. His statement not only targets pollution but also directly questions the efficiency of the government, leading to various reactions. With Mumbai's air constantly at dangerous levels, everyone is now focused on what exact steps the government will take and what measures will be implemented to control pollution in the city.