Tue Feb 24 23:11:49 UTC 2026: ### Ahmedabad Air Quality Under Scrutiny as Gujarat Assembly Session Begins

The Story:
The Gujarat Assembly session commenced with questions raised about air quality in Ahmedabad and protocol during the Governor’s welcome. Congress MLA Imran Khedawala questioned the state government about the number of days in December 2025 when Ahmedabad’s Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeded 300, a level signifying “Very Unhealthy” conditions. The government responded with “zero.” Simultaneously, MLA Shailesh Parmar challenged the presence of BJP state president Jagdish Vishwakarma during the Governor’s arrival, questioning protocol. Separately, in Delhi, a green waste processing plant was inaugurated, signaling progress in waste management.

Key Points:

  • The Gujarat government claims Ahmedabad had zero days with an AQI over 300 in December 2025.
  • The government states that an action plan is in progress under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) in Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Rajkot and Surat.
  • The action plan addresses industrial, vehicle exhaust, construction, road dust, and household waste air pollution.
  • A Congress MLA questioned the presence of BJP state president during the Governor’s welcome, alleging protocol breach.
  • The Speaker clarified that only the CM was invited, and the BJP president just happened to be present.
  • Delhi inaugurated its first green waste processing plant.

Critical Analysis:
The simultaneous questioning of air quality data and protocol breaches suggests a heightened level of scrutiny towards the ruling party in Gujarat. The timing of the air quality inquiry, coinciding with the start of the Assembly session, indicates a strategic effort to hold the government accountable on environmental issues. The discrepancy between perceived air quality and reported data raises concerns about transparency and data accuracy.

Key Takeaways:

  • Air quality remains a contentious issue in Ahmedabad, despite government claims.
  • The Gujarat government is under pressure to demonstrate progress under the National Clean Air Programme.
  • Opposition parties are actively challenging government actions and data.
  • Delhi is taking proactive steps in waste management, with implications for environmental sustainability.

Impact Analysis:
The scrutiny of air quality data and government actions could lead to increased public awareness and demand for environmental accountability in Gujarat. The success of Delhi’s green waste processing plant could serve as a model for other cities seeking sustainable waste management solutions. The political challenges within the Gujarat Assembly suggest a potentially contentious legislative session.

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