Environmental (Commonwealth Union)_ Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has sounded the alarm on India’s growing ecological challenges, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and advancing environmental sustainability. Speaking at an event organized by a media house, the CM outlined the urgency of addressing air and water pollution, shifting climate patterns, and the broader environmental crisis through collaborative efforts between the government, society, and citizens.
Air Pollution and Climate Shifts
Citing New Delhi’s severe air quality, Yogi likened the national capital to a “gas chamber,” expressing concern over its impact on vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly and individuals with respiratory ailments. “The alarming situation poses significant risks. The government is deeply concerned, and the judiciary is taking stringent measures to address the crisis,” he noted.
Shifting his focus to climate change, the CM highlighted the altering patterns of monsoon rains and their profound implications for agriculture. Traditionally, the monsoon season ran from June 15 to August 15, but in recent years, it has extended from August 15 to October 15, disrupting sowing and harvesting cycles.
“Uneven rainfall distribution has led to some regions experiencing excessive rain while others face drought-like conditions. These environmental disasters stem from unplanned development and harmful human activities,” he added.
Water Pollution: A Dire Challenge
The Chief Minister’s address highlighted water contamination as another pressing issue. He linked polluted water to a rise in health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and stomach diseases. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the ‘Har Ghar Nal’ initiative is ensuring access to clean drinking water, which has significantly curbed waterborne diseases across the state.
However, Yogi pointed out the role of industrial waste in exacerbating water pollution. “We set up large industries but irresponsibly dump their waste into rivers, polluting these life-giving resources and endangering both human and wildlife health,” he said. The CM also criticized the excessive use of pesticides and chemicals in agriculture, which has accelerated the spread of diseases.
Commitment to Carbon Emission Reduction
Since 2017, the Uttar Pradesh government has made strides in reducing carbon emissions. Over 16 lakh LED streetlights have been installed across the state, leading to a reduction of 9.4 lakh tons of carbon emissions and saving ₹968 crore.
The CM also highlighted the Centre’s Suryaghar Yojana, urging citizens to adopt solar energy. “This initiative allows individuals to not only generate electricity for their needs but also sell surplus power, promoting renewable energy adoption,” he explained.
Reforestation and renewable energy goals
Reforestation is another cornerstone of the state’s sustainability efforts. Yogi revealed that since 2017, the state has planted 204 crore saplings, increasing the forest cover by 10%. The government aims to expand this to 15% in the next three years. Additionally, the government has developed a 23,000-hectare land bank to support renewable energy projects.
Tackling Pollution from Traditional Fuels
The CM praised the success of the Ujjwala Yojana, which has provided free LPG connections to 10 crore families since 2016. This initiative has reduced the reliance on traditional fuels like wood and coal, which cause significant indoor pollution.
“Cooking on traditional fuels is as harmful as inhaling smoke from over 100 cigarettes,” Yogi emphasized, underlining the scheme’s role in improving health outcomes and reducing pollution from stubble burning.
Success in Combating Encephalitis
Yogi highlighted a remarkable achievement in combating encephalitis, which claimed the lives of 50,000 children in 38 districts of eastern Uttar Pradesh between 1977 and 2017. Improved sanitation and clean water supply campaigns brought the disease under control within two years, with no recent fatalities reported.
A Call for Collective Action
Yogi Adityanath concluded with a call for unity in environmental conservation. “This is not just the responsibility of the government. Society, institutions, and citizens must come together to ensure a sustainable future,” he urged.
The CM’s comprehensive approach, combining policy initiatives, public engagement, and environmental stewardship, sets a robust foundation for addressing Uttar Pradesh’s ecological challenges. As the state pushes forward with its green agenda, it also offers a model for sustainable development for the rest of the country.
