**Alternative City Remains Elusive as Delhi Air Quality Worsens**
Winter in New Delhi, India’s national capital, has brought with it some of the worst air quality numbers in years, resulting in the implementation of stringent measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to combat further environmental deterioration. The city is currently under Stage-III and Stage-IV restrictions, indicating “Severe Air Quality” and “Severe Plus” conditions.
**The Search for a Cleaner Capital**
As Delhiites endure another toxic winter, the conversation around relocating the capital for cleaner air has resurfaced, with little support from the influential circles of Lutyens’ Delhi. Despite suggestions to move the capital from pollution-ridden Delhi to a different city, there seems to be little progress unless significant economic shifts drive the country’s future development.
**Political Perspectives on the Issue**
Opposition MP Shashi Tharoor recently labeled Delhi as “uninhabitable” during winter, sparking debates on whether it should remain the nation’s capital. Others, like Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam spokesperson Salem Dharanidharan, have advocated for relocating the capital to Chennai, citing its safety and cleanliness. However, cities like Chennai, Mumbai, and Kolkata, while significant, also face their own pollution challenges and environmental issues that complicate the decision to shift the capital.
**Global Implications**
A global study indicates that as temperatures rise, coastal cities like New York, Tokyo, Miami, and Guangzhou are at risk of significant flooding by 2100. Jakarta is already sinking due to rapid urbanization, presenting a cautionary tale for other coastal cities. The prospect of relocating India’s capital to a coastal city is deemed unrealistic due to these risks.
**Historical Lessons and Future Challenges**
While history offers examples of failed attempts to shift capitals, such as Mohammad bin Tughlaq’s ill-fated move in 1327, the search for an alternative capital remains challenging. With India’s population projected to reach 1.7 billion by 2047, finding a city capable of supporting such growth poses a daunting task. Until the idea gains traction in power circles, the focus must remain on addressing the root causes of pollution and creating a greener Delhi for all its residents.
Ultimately, the search for a cleaner, healthier capital city continues, highlighting the complexities and challenges faced in finding a viable alternative to Delhi. As we navigate these critical environmental issues, it is essential to prioritize sustainable solutions that benefit both current and future generations. The conversation around relocating the capital serves as a reminder of the urgent need to address pollution and climate change to ensure a better tomorrow for all.