Bengaluru legislators to convene on air pollution crisis

Eshwar Khandre has called a meeting of Bengaluru legislators, chaired by DCM, to tackle rising pollution and prevent the city from turning into a 'gas chamber' like Delhi

Amid growing concerns over deteriorating air quality in Bengaluru, Karnataka Environment Minister Eshwar Khandre announced on Thursday that a meeting of all city legislators will soon be convened to chart strategies for pollution control. The minister warned that urgent steps are needed to ensure Bengaluru does not slip into conditions similar to Delhi, which he described as a ‘gas chamber.’

The decision follows a request from Rajajinagar MLA Suresh Kumar, who highlighted the worsening impact of dust and pollution on residents. Kumar noted that respiratory illnesses among children are rising, with some doctors even advising families to relocate to the city’s outskirts. He urged authorities to act swiftly to safeguard public health.

Khandre confirmed that Bengaluru’s air quality is currently monitored through 11 fixed stations and 13 mobile units. He directed officials to issue notices to local bodies whenever the Air Quality Index (AQI) crosses 100, mandating corrective measures within a set timeframe. Failure to comply, he warned, would invite legal action against the responsible authorities.

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The upcoming meeting will be chaired by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who also serves as Bengaluru Development Minister. Senior officials from five city corporations under the Greater Bengaluru Authority will join legislators in the discussions. The agenda will cover air, water, and noise pollution, with emphasis on coordinated action across party lines.

Khandre stressed that tackling pollution requires collective responsibility and cooperation among all elected representatives. By bringing legislators and civic officials together, the government hopes to design a comprehensive plan to curb emissions, manage dust, and improve monitoring systems. The minister underscored that protecting Bengaluru’s environment is critical to safeguarding the health and well‑being of its citizens.

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