Jonty Rhodes Raises Concern Over Delhi’s Hazardous Air Pollution, Says He Is Grateful to Live in Goa

Former South African cricketer Jonty Rhodes, widely regarded as one of the finest fielders in the history of the sport, has drawn attention to Delhi’s severe air pollution through a candid post on X (formerly Twitter). Rhodes, who resides in a coastal village in South Goa, briefly passed through New Delhi on his way to Ranchi and described the capital’s poor air quality as “hard to digest.”

Air Quality Concerns Resurface in National Capital

New Delhi has been experiencing hazardous air quality levels for several days, leading to severe public health concerns. In some areas, AQI levels have crossed the “severe” mark, prompting environmental activists, citizens, and medical experts to call for urgent intervention.

Rhodes’ remarks add a global voice to the growing number of concerns being raised about the capital’s environmental conditions. His post highlights how the issue is no longer limited to local citizens but is drawing attention from prominent international personalities visiting the city.

Rhodes’ Post Sparks Environmental Conversation

On social media, the former cricketer wrote:
“Passing through Delhi en route to Ranchi this evening, and as always, it’s hard to digest the low levels of air quality here. Am grateful to be living in a small fishing village in South Goa.”

The statement was short but pointed, reflecting concern about pollution while simultaneously emphasising the environmental contrast between Delhi and coastal regions like Goa.

Delhi Continues to Struggle With Pollution Crisis

The national capital traditionally experiences a spike in pollution during winter months due to a combination of weather conditions, vehicular emissions, industrial activity, and stubble burning in neighbouring states.
This year, too, public events, schools, and outdoor activities have been affected, while protests have begun at India Gate demanding immediate action.

Shockingly, even a Ranji Trophy match between Delhi and Jammu & Kashmir is underway at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, despite AQI readings being classified as hazardous.

Goa Offers Cleaner Air and Better Living Conditions

Rhodes has made Goa his home for several years, living in a quiet fishing village with his family. The coastal climate and lower pollution levels offer a stark contrast to urban hubs struggling with toxic smog. His comment not only reflects personal relief but also highlights a larger environmental gap between regions within India.

Environmental bodies, health experts, and citizens have repeatedly urged stronger policy action to address pollution. Rhodes’ post has helped bring renewed visibility to the issue at a time when the city is grappling with public health risks.