India is striving for a greener future, targeting a Net Zero Goal by 2070. However, the path forward is overshadowed by a significant decline in air quality, raising alarming concerns for public health. As per the study published in the Lancet Planetary Health, over 3.6 million deaths occurred in ten Indian cities between 2008 and 2019 due to pollution. And Delhi bears the highest percentage of fatalities attributed to PM2.5 air pollution-a dangerous compound that can lead to serious health issues, including cancer, by entering the bloodstream.

The situation in the capital is particularly dire, with approximately 12,000 lives lost each year due to air pollution, accounting for 11.5% of the city's total deaths. As India continues its journey towards sustainability, the urgent need to address air quality issues is becoming increasingly critical. In a recent conversation with the media, Non-Government Organization Youth Services for Peace President Sapan Kay Cee urged government officials to prioritize environmental policies aimed at combating the rising pollution crisis. She expressed grave concern over the current state of air and water quality in urban areas, especially in Delhi NCR. Additionally, emphasizes the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to mitigate the harmful effects of pollution on public health and ecosystems.