Delhi CM calls for a common NCR strategy to curb pollution

New Delhi, June 16 (IANS) Attending the 42nd meeting of the National Capital Region Planning Board (NCRPB), Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday said that all states associated with the National Capital Region (NCR) must work together to curb pollution and expand green cover.

She pressed for sustained, serious efforts to ensure holistic, balanced development and to provide better facilities for residents.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the rising pollution in the NCR, describing it as a serious, shared challenge. She said all four states would need to undertake concrete, long-term efforts together to address the problem effectively.

She said that if all states adopt a common policy and coordinate modern technology and appropriate pollution-control resources, the problem can be tackled more effectively.

She said expanding green cover is crucial not only for the present generation but also for the health and future of generations to come.

She said the pace of regional development can be accelerated only through a coordinated approach that enables the benefits of growth to reach every part of the NCR.

The NCRPB meeting, chaired by Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal, was attended by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and senior representatives from Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan.

Delhi Chief Minister Gupta said all NCR states must work together to provide adequate, high-quality services to people across the NCR, ensuring balanced development and an improved quality of life for citizens.

She said the Delhi government continues to prioritise the expansion of public facilities and development works. Similarly, other NCR states must also make serious efforts towards development so that the growing population pressure on Delhi can be reduced and regional balance can be achieved.

The meeting featured detailed discussions on strengthening institutional coordination among Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan; improving regional transport and connectivity; accelerating the implementation of development projects; and addressing other key issues related to the NCR.

Chief Minister Gupta said it is encouraging that transport and connectivity infrastructure across the NCR is expanding continuously, making travel more convenient for people. She stressed that all states must continue working together to ensure that no part of the NCR remains deprived of better connectivity.

The Chief Minister said that, apart from Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan currently have like-minded governments that are working in better coordination and giving priority to public welfare, state interests and development.

As a result, the implementation of various development schemes has gathered pace and coordination among the states has become more effective than before. The common priority of all four states, she said, is the overall development of the NCR and the provision of better facilities for its residents.

–IANS

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