405 Air Purifiers Bought for Ministers, VVIP Lounges in 4 Years: Govt
The Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has procured a significant number of air purifiers for government offices, VVIP lounges, courtrooms, and even Supreme Court judges over the past four years. According to a recent statement by Housing and Urban Affairs Minister of State Tokhan Sahu in the Lok Sabha, a total of 405 air purifiers were purchased between 2021 and 2025.
The air purifiers, which ranged in price from ₹15,000 to ₹1.50 lakh per unit, were acquired to improve the indoor air quality in various government establishments, including Parliament, government offices, and the Supreme Court. The purchases were made through the government’s online procurement portal, ensuring transparency and efficiency in the procurement process.
The move to purchase air purifiers on such a large scale highlights the government’s growing concern about air pollution and its impact on public health. The capital city of Delhi, where many of these government offices and establishments are located, has been grappling with severe air pollution for years. The air quality in the city often deteriorates to hazardous levels, especially during the winter months, posing a significant risk to the health of residents, including government officials and ministers.
The procurement of air purifiers is a step in the right direction, as it aims to provide a healthier environment for those working in government offices and establishments. The air purifiers will help to remove pollutants and particulate matter from the air, reducing the risk of respiratory problems and other health issues associated with poor air quality.
It is worth noting that the purchase of air purifiers is not limited to government offices and establishments. Many private companies and individuals are also investing in air purifiers to improve the indoor air quality in their homes and workplaces. This growing demand for air purifiers reflects the increasing awareness about the importance of clean air and the need to take measures to mitigate the effects of air pollution.
The government’s decision to purchase air purifiers for VVIP lounges and Supreme Court judges also raises questions about the disparity in access to clean air. While it is understandable that government officials and ministers may require a healthy working environment, it is also important to ensure that the same level of protection is extended to all citizens, regardless of their social or economic status.
In recent years, there has been a growing movement to recognize the right to clean air as a fundamental human right. This movement has been driven by concerns about the impact of air pollution on public health, particularly in urban areas. The government’s decision to purchase air purifiers for government offices and establishments is a recognition of this right, but it also highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach to addressing air pollution.
To effectively tackle air pollution, the government needs to adopt a multi-faceted approach that involves reducing emissions from vehicles, industries, and other sources, as well as promoting the use of clean energy and sustainable practices. This will require a coordinated effort from various government agencies, private companies, and civil society organizations.
In conclusion, the purchase of 405 air purifiers by the CPWD for government offices, VVIP lounges, and Supreme Court judges is a positive step towards improving indoor air quality and mitigating the effects of air pollution. However, it is also important to recognize that this is just one part of a larger solution to the problem of air pollution. The government needs to adopt a more comprehensive approach to addressing air pollution, one that involves reducing emissions, promoting sustainable practices, and ensuring access to clean air for all citizens.
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