‘Burning eyes, breathing trouble’: Yogi Adityanath likens Delhi’s air to ‘gas chamber’; hails Gorakhpur's AQI
Times of India
by TNNFebruary 15, 2026
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Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, has sharply criticized Delhi’s air quality, describing it as a “gas chamber” due to its hazardous pollution levels. Speaking at events in Gorakhpur, he highlighted how poor AQI conditions in the capital have led to health issues like burning eyes and difficulty breathing, forcing vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with illnesses to stay indoors. He contrasted this with Gorakhpur’s clean and healthy environment, emphasizing the importance of protecting natural resources for public well-being.
Adityanath stressed that environmental degradation directly impacts human health, urging governments and individuals to prioritize sustainable practices. He pointed to long-term solutions like the proposed forestry university in Campierganj as a way to increase forest cover, improve farmers’ livelihoods, and address environmental challenges systematically. This initiative, he said, would not only enhance green cover but also serve as a model for tackling air pollution effectively.
Adityanath’s remarks come amid growing global concern over the health impacts of air pollution, which is linked to respiratory diseases and other serious conditions. His comments highlight the urgent need for governments to implement robust environmental policies and invest in sustainable development projects. By contrasting Delhi’s struggling air quality with Gorakhpur’s cleaner environment, Adityanath underscores the potential benefits of prioritizing ecological conservation over industrial growth.
This issue is particularly relevant globally as cities worldwide grapple with pollution problems. Adityanath’s stance draws attention to the direct connection between environmental health and public well-being, offering a perspective on how proactive measures can lead to healthier communities. His emphasis on long-term solutions like forestry initiatives also points to the importance of sustainable development in addressing environmental challenges.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/15/2026