Delhi’s air quality has reached hazardous levels, intensifying concerns over the city’s environmental and governance crisis. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in the National Capital Region (NCR) has spiked alarmingly, prompting the Central Air Quality Management (CAQM) authority to reimpose Stage-3 restrictions under its Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This pattern of deteriorating air quality during winter months has been a recurring issue, as confirmed by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

In 2024, Delhi experienced 155 days of ‘poor,’ ‘very poor,’ or ‘severe’ air quality, with no days classified as ‘good’ for the first time in six years. While the number of polluted days decreased slightly from 202 in 2022, the city’s average AQI in November and December remained in the ‘very poor’ category at 347 and 330, respectively. Even monsoon months, typically associated with improved air quality, failed to maintain an average AQI below 120 since 2019. This persistent pollution underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to tackle Delhi’s worsening air crisis.

Against this backdrop, the Hakku Consultation, titled “Ye Meri Delhi Nahin Hai” (This is Not My Delhi), is set to take place on January 7, 2025, at the Constitution Club, New Delhi. The event will bring together leading thinkers, policymakers, and activists to address Delhi’s pressing challenges, including air quality, governance, and livability.

The panel includes distinguished figures such as Dr. Shailaja Chandra, former Chief Secretary of Delhi; journalist Sidharth Mishra; environmentalist Vimlendu Jha; RTI activist Anjali Bhardwaj; and Anupam, President of Yuva Halla Bol. Moderated by Dr. Kota Neelima, Founder of the Hakku Initiative, the discussion aims to foster dialogue and generate actionable solutions to restore Delhi’s vibrancy and sustainability.

The Hakku Initiative, a citizen-led platform, seeks to mobilise collective responsibility among Delhi’s residents and policymakers. By addressing urban distress through participatory dialogue, the initiative aims to reclaim Delhi’s identity as a livable and inclusive metropolis. Citizens are encouraged to join this critical conversation and contribute to shaping a sustainable future for the capital.

The event, beginning at 2 PM with a press conference at 5 PM, will serve as a platform for exploring sustainable governance strategies and inspiring collective action to combat Delhi’s environmental and governance crisis.