'I get allergies in Delhi because of pollution': Nitin Gadkari
24 Dec 2025

Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari has highlighted the severity of air pollution in Delhi-NCR, admitting that even short stays in the capital trigger allergies for him.

"I live here for three days, I get allergies because of this pollution," he said at a book launch event by veteran journalist Uday Mahurkar.

"I am the transport minister, and 40 percent of pollution happens because of transport itself," he acknowledged.

Gadkari advocates for cleaner fuel alternatives
Pollution solutions

Gadkari stressed the importance of reducing reliance on fossil fuels and switching to cleaner fuel alternatives.

He asked, "What kind of nationalism is this? Fossil fuels are limited, and pollution is increasing."

He added, "Why can't we promote electric vehicles and hydrogen-powered vehicles, which can lead to zero pollution?"

He also spoke about his own flex-fuel vehicle running on ethanol, which helps cut emissions and lessen dependence on imported fossil fuels.

Delhi's air quality deteriorates, Gadkari's concerns echoed
Pollution crisis

Gadkari's remarks come as Delhi's air quality worsened on Tuesday, with an AQI of 412, making it the country's second-most polluted city. Noida, with an AQI of 426, was India's most polluted city.

The situation improved slightly on Wednesday but is expected to remain in the "very poor" category for six more days.

This isn't the first time Gadkari has voiced concerns over Delhi's pollution; he had previously expressed reluctance to visit due to severe smog and poor air quality.

Delhi Environment Minister reinforces pollution control measures
Enforcement actions

Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa has also emphasized the importance of controlling vehicular emissions.

He said the "No PUC, No Fuel" policy will continue even after easing GRAP-IV restrictions.

Vehicles without valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates will be barred from operating in the city, irrespective of the GRAP status.

Sirsa stressed, "If anyone is found violating norms, strict action will be taken."

Delhi Cabinet approves new pollution control measures
Pollution initiatives

The Delhi Cabinet has approved four new automated vehicle testing stations to tighten emissions checks.

It has also approved the establishment of the city's first e-waste park at Holambi Kalan.

According to Sirsa, over 800 industrial units have faced enforcement action for pollution violations.

The Delhi Pollution Control Committee issued 411 closure notices, while around 400 units were sealed by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi.