Chess Star Vidit Gujrathi Sounds Alarm Over Delhi's Hazardous Air Quality
Indian chess Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi has raised serious concerns about the deteriorating air quality in New Delhi. He shared a screenshot showing Delhi's Air Quality Index at a hazardous level of 598 on Saturday. Gujrathi posted a powerful message on social media platform X.
"We are slowly being poisoned and no one cares? Shouldn't solving this be the top priority?" Gujrathi wrote in his post. His statement highlights growing frustration among citizens and athletes about persistent pollution problems in the national capital.
Badminton Tournament Disrupted by Extreme Pollution
The hazardous air quality has directly impacted international sporting events in Delhi. World No. 3 badminton player Anders Antonsen withdrew from the ongoing India Open tournament for the third consecutive year. He cited extreme pollution as his reason for pulling out.
"Due to the extreme pollution in Delhi at the moment, I don't think it's a place to host a badminton tournament," Antonsen wrote on his Instagram story earlier this week. The Danish player also revealed that the Badminton World Federation fined him $5,000 for his withdrawal.
Antonsen shared his own screenshot showing Delhi's AQI at 348, still in the hazardous range. He expressed hope that conditions would improve by summer when Delhi hosts the World Championships.
Other Athletes Voice Concerns About Delhi's Air
Former world champion Loh Kean Yew also commented on the challenging conditions after defeating HS Prannoy in the India Open pre-quarterfinals. When asked about his good record in India, the Singaporean player gave a revealing answer.
"I don't know, probably the weather here," Loh said. "Everyone's stamina drops like two levels in these conditions with the haze going on. I was good in Malaysia but my health has dropped a bit after landing here."
This isn't the first time Delhi's pollution has drawn criticism during the India Open. Last year, Danish shuttler Mia Blichfeldt also complained about the city's air quality. She expressed similar dissatisfaction with conditions this year.
Persistent Problem Demands Immediate Attention
Delhi's air pollution crisis has been a recurring topic of discussion for years. The city frequently experiences hazardous AQI levels during winter months. Gujrathi's comments reflect broader public concern about health impacts from prolonged exposure to polluted air.
The situation raises important questions about hosting major sporting events in polluted cities. Player welfare and performance are genuine concerns when air quality reaches dangerous levels. International athletes continue to highlight these issues through their tournament withdrawals and public statements.
As Delhi prepares to host more international events, including the badminton World Championships this summer, pressure mounts for concrete solutions to improve air quality. The health of both residents and visiting athletes remains at stake in this ongoing environmental challenge.
