Jaipur appeared to take an unusual step this week as videos circulated online showing outdoor air purifiers installed at major traffic points in the city. The clips, which first surfaced a day ago, claimed that officials had placed India’s first set of outdoor purifiers at busy spots such as Rambagh Circle and Ajmeri Gate. The move was reportedly aimed at tackling rising pollution levels as Jaipur’s Air Quality Index (AQI) touched 177 to190 this winter.
Even as the video spread, the authenticity of the installation remained unclear. HT City has not verified the validity of the video. Additionally, many have highlighted online that such purifiers have a limited impact outdoors unless larger pollution sources — like traffic emissions, waste burning and dust control — are addressed.
Social media reacts with memes
Still, the internet responded instantly — and hilariously. On X, the post shared by the handle Indian Tech and Infra drew hundreds of reactions. Take a look:
Most users questioned the practicality of the idea, while others responded with jokes about placing “replacing trees with purifiers” or “installing a RO in the ocean to manage water pollution...” Many pointed out that more effective measures could include simply planting more trees. Other comments included, “We need air purifiers to keep air purifiers clean.” One more said, “This is a useless idea, I don't think it will make any difference, it would be better to plant as many trees as possible which will work as natural purifiers.”
Pollution concerns deepen nationwide
{{/usCountry}}Most users questioned the practicality of the idea, while others responded with jokes about placing “replacing trees with purifiers” or “installing a RO in the ocean to manage water pollution...” Many pointed out that more effective measures could include simply planting more trees. Other comments included, “We need air purifiers to keep air purifiers clean.” One more said, “This is a useless idea, I don't think it will make any difference, it would be better to plant as many trees as possible which will work as natural purifiers.”
Pollution concerns deepen nationwide
{{/usCountry}}The conversation also tied into the broader national air-quality crisis. While Jaipur recorded an AQI of 177, Delhi’s AQI has climbed to 376 today, once again highlighting how northern Indian cities struggle each winter, especially after the festive season. The scepticism around Jaipur’s alleged air purifiers mirrors long-standing debates about quick fixes versus systemic interventions.