The national capital's air quality was in the very poor category on Tuesday morning, the first time this season, with calm winds and low temperatures allowing accumulation of pollutants.

India: Delhi's air quality hits 'very poor' level, first time this season

The farmers of Punjab and Haryana have started their annual exercise of burning crop stubble to prepare the fields for rabi (winter) crops and due to this practice of large area the air quality Delhi -NCR has started deteriorating.

The national capital's air quality was recorded in the poor category Thursday morning and it is likely to deteriorate further due to unfavourable meteorological conditions and spike in farm fires. 
The city recorded an air quality index (AQI) of 201 at 9 am, which falls in the poor category.

Delhi's air quality had turned poor even on Wednesday, the first time in since June 29, with the Central Pollution Control Board recording a 24-hour average AQI of 215. It was 178 on Tuesday.

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'.

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday agreed to examine a suggestion that a portion of Minimum Support Price (MSP) should be withheld from farmers and released later only after verification that they didn’t burn stubble.

The top court was hearing a plea filed by environmental activist and class 12 student Aditya Dubey and law student Aman Banka who sought directions to provide free of cost stubble removing machines to small and marginal farmers to check high particulate matters in the air.

The petition contended that stubble burning contributes almost 40 per cent of air pollution in Delhi.

The PIL referred to the Harvard University study that air pollution may now be an important factor that aggravates a mild Covid-19 infection into an acute one.

Meanwhile, India's sulphur dioxide (SO2) emissions, which contribute to air pollution, recorded a significant decline of approximately six per cent in 2019 as compared to 2018, the steepest dip in four years, a report has said.

However, India continues to occupy the top emitter's position for the fifth consecutive year, the report based on an analysis by Greenpeace India and the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), released on Tuesday, said.

Sulphur dioxide is a poisonous air pollutant that increases the risk of stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, and premature death. 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;(With inputs from agencies)

The farmers of Punjab and Haryana have started their annual exercise of burning crop stubble to prepare the fields for rabi (winter) crops and due to this practice of large area the air quality Delhi -NCR has started deteriorating.

The farmers of Punjab and Haryana have started their annual exercise of burning crop stubble to prepare the fields for rabi (winter) crops and due to this practice of large area the air quality Delhi -NCR has started deteriorating. The national capital's air quality was recorded in the poor category Thursday morning and it is likely to deteriorate further due to unfavourable meteorological conditions and spike in farm fires. The city recorded an air quality index (AQI) of 201 at 9 am, which falls in the poor category. Delhi's air quality had turned poor even on Wednesday, the first time in since June 29, with the Central Pollution Control Board recording a 24-hour average AQI of 215. It was 178 on Tuesday. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'. The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday agreed to examine a suggestion that a portion of Minimum Support Price (MSP) should be withheld from farmers and released later only after verification that they didn’t burn stubble. The top court was hearing a plea filed by environmental activist and class 12 student Aditya Dubey and law student Aman Banka who sought directions to provide free of cost stubble removing machines to small and marginal farmers to check high particulate matters in the air. The petition contended that stubble burning contributes almost 40 per cent of air pollution in Delhi. The PIL referred to the Harvard University study that air pollution may now be an important factor that aggravates a mild Covid-19 infection into an acute one. Meanwhile, India's sulphur dioxide (SO2) emissions, which contribute to air pollution, recorded a significant decline of approximately six per cent in 2019 as compared to 2018, the steepest dip in four years, a report has said. However, India continues to occupy the top emitter's position for the fifth consecutive year, the report based on an analysis by Greenpeace India and the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), released on Tuesday, said. Sulphur dioxide is a poisonous air pollutant that increases the risk of stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, and premature death. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi-NCR fears air pollution as farmers continue stubble burning

Air quality is improving in countries under coronavirus quarantines, experts say, but it is far too early to speak of long-term change. Images by the US space agency NASA are clear, in February the concentration of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) fell dramatically in Wuhan, China, the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic, passing from an indicator that was red/orange to blue.

Air quality is improving in countries under coronavirus quarantines, experts say, but it is far too early to speak of long-term change. Images by the US space agency NASA are clear, in February the concentration of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) fell dramatically in Wuhan, China, the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic, passing from an indicator that was red/orange to blue. NO2 is mainly produced by vehicles, industrial sites and thermal power stations. As China moves past the peak of its crisis, however, recent images by the European Space Agency (ESA) show a resurgence in NO2 emissions. A striking reduction has also been observed by the ESA in northern Italy, which has been locked down to fight a spread of the novel coronavirus, which causes COVID-19. The European Environment Agency (EEA) reports a similar change in Barcelona and Madrid, where Spanish authorities issued confinement orders in mid-March. 'Dramatic drop-off' "NO2 is a short-lived pollutant, with a lifetime in the atmosphere of about one day," said Vincent-Henri Peuch, from the EU earth surveillance programme Copernicus. "As a result, this pollutant stays near the emissions sources and can be used as a proxy of the intensity of activity in different sectors," he told AFP. Fei Liu, an air quality researcher at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, noted the change in China, saying: "This is the first time I have seen such a dramatic drop-off over such a wide area for a specific event." Even during the economic crisis more than a decade ago, the decrease in NO2 levels "was more continuous in time," according to EEA air quality specialist Alberto Gonzalez Ortiz. In northern Italy, "average NO2 concentration levels have been almost halved on average," Peuch remarked. The pollutant can provoke serious inflammation of the respiratory system. Long-term exposure As for other countries or regions that have told inhabitants to remain confined at home, notably Argentina, Bavaria, Belgium, California, France and Tunisia, specialists are poring over the data to see if the trend is similar. Meanwhile, less NO2 does not necessarily mean purer air. Beijing experienced episodes of pollution owing to fine particles in February, NASA's Earth Observatory reported. The air in Paris was also rated as moderately polluted Friday owing to the presence of fine particles and NO2 even though the population had already been confined at home for three days. Peuch explained that the concentration of polluting matter can vary with the weather. "Some emissions sources, like energy production and residential use of energy are likely not to be decreasing markedly when more people have to stay at home," he noted. The concentration of so-called PM2.5 and PM10 particles and carbon monoxide (CO) are "also expected to be reducing over time," Peuch said. These are a mixture of minute solid particles and liquid droplets present in the atmosphere with diameters of 2.5 and 10 micrometres (microns). So what should we expect in terms of improvements to health, given that air pollution provokes around 8.8 million premature deaths each year according to a recent study? Fine particles irritate the eyes and throat and inhibit breathing. In extreme cases, elderly people and those who suffer from asthma risk death if not properly treated. In the longer term, air pollution can cause chronic respiratory or cardiac problems or lung cancer. "Less pollution is always good," notes Gonzalez Ortiz. Confinement measures thus protect in two ways, by reducing the risk of COVID-19 infection and by easing pollution from road traffic, according to a group of French doctors known as Air-Sante-climate. It is nonetheless hard to know how much benefit the world's population will actually experience because, according to the health experts, "what will have more impact is the long term exposure," Gonzalez Ortiz said.

Air quality picking up in quarantined countries

The air quality in the national capital on Monday plunged to the '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-quality-remains-poor-in-delhi-273172">very poor</a>' category, and light rains are likely to hit the city today. 
 
According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the overall AQI docked at 356 at 9 am, which falls in the 'very poor' category. 
 
At Chandni Chowk, the AQI was recorded at 321, 355 in Lodhi Road, 346 in IGI airport and 331 in IIT Delhi. 
 
An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe or hazardous. 
 
The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/19-trains-running-late-due-to-low-visibility-in-the-northern-railway-region-272007">India Meteorological Department</a> (IMD) has forecast a generally cloudy sky with the possibility of light rain with maximum and minimum temperatures at 23 and 9 degrees Celsius, respectively.

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Weather Warning and Rainfall Forecast video based on 0830 hours IST of 13.01.2020 <a href="https://t.co/vae7pgjyJa">pic.twitter.com/vae7pgjyJa</a>
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On Sunday, the maximum and minimum temperatures in the national capital were recorded at 24.3 and 7.1 degrees Celsius respectively. 
 
"Scattered to fairly widespread rain or thunderstorm with isolated heavy falls accompanied with hail or lightning also likely over north Punjab, north Haryana and northwest Uttar Pradesh on Monday," the IMD said in its bulletin. 
 
A fresh western disturbance in quick succession is also very likely to affect the Western Himalayan region and plains of northwest India from January 15 onwards with a peak intensity of precipitation on January 16, the weather agency added. 
 
As many as 15 trains are running late due to low visibility in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/19-trains-running-late-due-to-low-visibility-in-northern-railway-region-271802">Northern Railway</a> region.

The air quality in the national capital on Monday plunged to the 'very poor' category, and light rains are likely to hit the city today. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the overall AQI docked at 356 at 9 am, which falls in the 'very poor' category.

The air quality in the national capital on Monday plunged to the 'very poor' category, and light rains are likely to hit the city today. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the overall AQI docked at 356 at 9 am, which falls in the 'very poor' category. At Chandni Chowk, the AQI was recorded at 321, 355 in Lodhi Road, 346 in IGI airport and 331 in IIT Delhi. An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe or hazardous. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a generally cloudy sky with the possibility of light rain with maximum and minimum temperatures at 23 and 9 degrees Celsius, respectively. Weather Warning and Rainfall Forecast video based on 0830 hours IST of 13.01.2020 pic.twitter.com/vae7pgjyJa — India Met. Dept. (@Indiametdept) January 13, 2020 × On Sunday, the maximum and minimum temperatures in the national capital were recorded at 24.3 and 7.1 degrees Celsius respectively. "Scattered to fairly widespread rain or thunderstorm with isolated heavy falls accompanied with hail or lightning also likely over north Punjab, north Haryana and northwest Uttar Pradesh on Monday," the IMD said in its bulletin. A fresh western disturbance in quick succession is also very likely to affect the Western Himalayan region and plains of northwest India from January 15 onwards with a peak intensity of precipitation on January 16, the weather agency added. As many as 15 trains are running late due to low visibility in the Northern Railway region.

Delhi: Air quality plunges to 'very poor' category, light rains expected today

The air quality of Delhi remained 'poor' on Sunday with the overall <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-air-quality-remains-in-poor-category-aqi-likely-to-deteriorate-tomorrow-265679">Air Quality Index</a> (AQI) recorded at 211, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

According to the data compiled by SAFAR, major pollutants i.e. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhis-air-quality-takes-a-hit-particulate-matter-level-shoots-up-255194">Particulate Matter</a> (PM) 2.5 was at 136 and PM 10 at 94, both in the 'poor' category in the capital area at 10:30 in the morning.

An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe/hazardous.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-quality-improves-slightly-in-delhi-safar-says-relief-temporary-263072">SAFAR</a> has advised 'sensitive groups' to avoid all outdoor physical activities.

"People are advised to stop outdoor activity in the early morning and after sunset times and avoid prolonged or heavy exertion. Go for a short walk instead of a jog and take more breaks. Stop any activity level if you experience any unusual coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing, breathing difficulty, or fatigue. If the room has windows, close them," it stated in its advisory.

The air quality of Delhi remained 'poor' on Sunday with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 211, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

The air quality of Delhi remained 'poor' on Sunday with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 211, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). According to the data compiled by SAFAR, major pollutants i.e. Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5 was at 136 and PM 10 at 94, both in the 'poor' category in the capital area at 10:30 in the morning. An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe/hazardous. The SAFAR has advised 'sensitive groups' to avoid all outdoor physical activities. "People are advised to stop outdoor activity in the early morning and after sunset times and avoid prolonged or heavy exertion. Go for a short walk instead of a jog and take more breaks. Stop any activity level if you experience any unusual coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing, breathing difficulty, or fatigue. If the room has windows, close them," it stated in its advisory.

Air quality remains 'poor' in Delhi

The air quality of the national capital improved significantly from 'severe'&nbsp;to 'very poor'&nbsp;category today.

According to data provided by Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), AQI recorded in Anand Vihar was at 412 ( 'severe'&nbsp;category ), RK Puram 391 ('very poor'&nbsp;category) and at Rohini at 439 ('severe'&nbsp;category) at 5 am in the morning.

On Tuesday also the pollution level of the national capital remained in the 'severe'&nbsp;category with AQI crossing 430 prompting System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) to advise people to avoid outdoor activities.

An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe/hazardous.

The air quality of the national capital improved significantly from 'severe' to 'very poor' category today. According to data provided by Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), AQI recorded in Anand Vihar was at 412 ( 'severe' category ), RK Puram 391 ('very poor' category) and at Rohini at 439 ('severe' category) at 5 am in the morning.

The air quality of the national capital improved significantly from 'severe' to 'very poor' category today. According to data provided by Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), AQI recorded in Anand Vihar was at 412 ( 'severe' category ), RK Puram 391 ('very poor' category) and at Rohini at 439 ('severe' category) at 5 am in the morning. On Tuesday also the pollution level of the national capital remained in the 'severe' category with AQI crossing 430 prompting System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) to advise people to avoid outdoor activities. An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe/hazardous.

Delhi records 'very poor', 'severe' air quality on New Year day

The overall air quality in Delhi stood at `very poor` on Friday with at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-pollution-air-quality-index-remains-in-very-poor-category-for-second-consecutive-day-262655">Air Quality Index </a>(AQI) docking at 332, said Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

Capital's popular market place <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-electric-wires-all-over-chandni-chowk-is-a-time-bomb-hc-22987">Chandani Chowk</a> witnessed a `severe` AQI of 405 while Mathura road saw 334. Adjoining Uttar Pradesh's<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/4-noida-restaurants-issued-notices-for-lack-of-fire-safety-measures-28224"> Noida</a> recorded a 'very poor'&nbsp;air quality with the AQI standing at 351.

An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe/hazardous. The PM10 and PM2.5 levels in Delhi touched 264 and 161 respectively.

The SAFAR has advised `Sensitive Groups` to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion when the air quality is not good."People are advised to take more breaks and do less intense activities. It is advisable for the asthmatics to keep medicines ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur.

Heart patients, see the doctor, if get palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue," it stated in its advisory.

The overall air quality in Delhi stood at `very poor` on Friday with at Air Quality Index (AQI) docking at 332, said Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

The overall air quality in Delhi stood at `very poor` on Friday with at Air Quality Index (AQI) docking at 332, said Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). Capital's popular market place Chandani Chowk witnessed a `severe` AQI of 405 while Mathura road saw 334. Adjoining Uttar Pradesh's Noida recorded a 'very poor' air quality with the AQI standing at 351. An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe/hazardous. The PM10 and PM2.5 levels in Delhi touched 264 and 161 respectively. The SAFAR has advised `Sensitive Groups` to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion when the air quality is not good."People are advised to take more breaks and do less intense activities. It is advisable for the asthmatics to keep medicines ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. Heart patients, see the doctor, if get palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue," it stated in its advisory.

Delhi's air quality remains in 'very poor' category, overall Air Quality Index 332

Extinction Rebellion climate activists were arrested after gluing themselves to a roadblock they had erected in central London on Monday (December 9).

Activists glue hands to roadblock to highlight air pollution in London

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/delhi-witnesses-public-health-emergency-as-air-quality-dips-to-severe-258952">air quality</a> in the national capital was recorded in the 'very poor' category on Wednesday morning and is likely to dip further.

The AQI is forecasted to deteriorate to the middle-end of the 'very poor' category on Thursday. Further deterioration to the higher-end of the 'very poor' category is forecasted for Friday.

According to the System of Air Quality and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/imds-weather-prediction-model-to-be-replaced-by-one-built-by-iit-professor-137654">Weather Forecasting And Research</a> (SAFAR), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi was at 305 in Delhi, in the lower end of 'very poor' category at 8:30 am today.

At Chandani Chowk, the AQI was at 370 with PM 2.5 and PM10 at 356. In the Delhi University area, the level of air pollution was high as the AQI was recorded at 311 at 8:30 in the morning.

At several major junctions of the city, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-pollution-air-quality-index-remains-in-very-poor-category-for-second-consecutive-day-262655">Air Quality Index</a> (AQI) oscillated between 'poor' and 'very poor' category.

Major pollutants PM 2.5 and PM 10 were at 206 and 202 respectively, both in the 'Poor' category, in Lodhi Road area, according to the Air Quality Index (AQI) data. While in areas such as Airport T3, IIT-Delhi and Noida the AQI was 306, 307 and 320.

An AQI between 0-50 is considered 'good', 51-100 'satisfactory', 101-200 'moderate', 201-300 'poor', 301-400 'very poor' and 401-500 is marked as 'severe'. An AQI above 500 falls in the 'severe plus' category.

The SAFAR model forecast suggests that AQI is likely to stay in the 'very poor' category for today and marginally deteriorate in the lower end of the 'very poor' category tomorrow.

The stubble transport-level winds are north-westerly but the wind speed is high which is not favorable for pollutant accumulation. PM2.5 per cent contribution is predicted to touch eight per cent today, as per SAFAR's trending summary.

The air quality in the national capital was recorded in the 'very poor' category on Wednesday morning and is likely to dip further. The AQI is forecasted to deteriorate to the middle-end of the 'very poor' category on Thursday.

The air quality in the national capital was recorded in the 'very poor' category on Wednesday morning and is likely to dip further. The AQI is forecasted to deteriorate to the middle-end of the 'very poor' category on Thursday. Further deterioration to the higher-end of the 'very poor' category is forecasted for Friday. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi was at 305 in Delhi, in the lower end of 'very poor' category at 8:30 am today. At Chandani Chowk, the AQI was at 370 with PM 2.5 and PM10 at 356. In the Delhi University area, the level of air pollution was high as the AQI was recorded at 311 at 8:30 in the morning. At several major junctions of the city, the Air Quality Index (AQI) oscillated between 'poor' and 'very poor' category. Major pollutants PM 2.5 and PM 10 were at 206 and 202 respectively, both in the 'Poor' category, in Lodhi Road area, according to the Air Quality Index (AQI) data. While in areas such as Airport T3, IIT-Delhi and Noida the AQI was 306, 307 and 320. An AQI between 0-50 is considered 'good', 51-100 'satisfactory', 101-200 'moderate', 201-300 'poor', 301-400 'very poor' and 401-500 is marked as 'severe'. An AQI above 500 falls in the 'severe plus' category. The SAFAR model forecast suggests that AQI is likely to stay in the 'very poor' category for today and marginally deteriorate in the lower end of the 'very poor' category tomorrow. The stubble transport-level winds are north-westerly but the wind speed is high which is not favorable for pollutant accumulation. PM2.5 per cent contribution is predicted to touch eight per cent today, as per SAFAR's trending summary.

Delhi air quality turns 'very poor', may dip further

The air quality in Delhi <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-ncr-air-quality-improves-to-moderate-264771">slightly deteriorated today morning</a>, settling at 108 points on the Air Quality Index (AQI), which implies 'moderate' pollution.

Yesterday, the air quality was in a satisfactory zone with the AQI in double digits.

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), major pollutants PM 10 and PM 2.5 were both at 92 in the Dhirpur area. 
 
The air quality index for PM 10 and PM 2.5 at Lodhi Road was at 93 and 95, respectively.&nbsp;

The same was 110 and 115 at IIT, and 102 and 103 at Delhi University.&nbsp; 
 
In Chandni Chowk, one of the most crowded areas of the capital, the AQI was 133 while the same was 113 at the airport, both of which fall under the 'moderate' category.

The capital city experienced fog-like conditions early in the morning.

Residents of Lutyens Delhi complained of fog in the morning.

"Though the pollution levels are comparatively less the fog has engulfed the region. It is much better now but the air should be more cleaner," said Aditya.

Another resident named Sarthak also claimed that fog covered Delhi in the morning and added that "requisite measures should be taken to curb the pollution menace". 
 
The Centre-run SAFAR has advised 'sensitive groups' to consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion throughout the day.&nbsp; 
 
"Take it easy if symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath occur," the organisation stated in its advisory.

(With inputs from ANI)

The air quality in Delhi slightly deteriorated today morning, settling at 108 points on the Air Quality Index (AQI), which implies 'moderate' pollution. Yesterday, the air quality was in a satisfactory zone with the AQI in double digits.

The air quality in Delhi slightly deteriorated today morning, settling at 108 points on the Air Quality Index (AQI), which implies 'moderate' pollution. Yesterday, the air quality was in a satisfactory zone with the AQI in double digits. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), major pollutants PM 10 and PM 2.5 were both at 92 in the Dhirpur area. The air quality index for PM 10 and PM 2.5 at Lodhi Road was at 93 and 95, respectively. The same was 110 and 115 at IIT, and 102 and 103 at Delhi University. In Chandni Chowk, one of the most crowded areas of the capital, the AQI was 133 while the same was 113 at the airport, both of which fall under the 'moderate' category. The capital city experienced fog-like conditions early in the morning. Residents of Lutyens Delhi complained of fog in the morning. "Though the pollution levels are comparatively less the fog has engulfed the region. It is much better now but the air should be more cleaner," said Aditya. Another resident named Sarthak also claimed that fog covered Delhi in the morning and added that "requisite measures should be taken to curb the pollution menace". The Centre-run SAFAR has advised 'sensitive groups' to consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion throughout the day. "Take it easy if symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath occur," the organisation stated in its advisory. (With inputs from ANI)

Air quality in Delhi 'moderate', slight deterioration today

Parliamentary Standing Committee on Urban Development has called for a meeting to discuss the effects of air pollution on lungs in the specific and overall health of citizens of Delhi, on December 5.

All stakeholders including those from urban local bodies, health ministery, Indian Medical Research Council, land-owning agencies have been asked to be present at the meeting.

The agenda of the meeting will be having detailed deliberations on long term solutions that can aid in improving the air quality and lessen its worst impact on the health of the city`s residents.

Chief secretaries of three state- Delhi, Haryana and Punjab will be called as well after this meeting to seek a report on the steps they have taken to curb pollution. Date of this meeting is yet to be finalised, sources stated.

Earlier, a meeting of Parliamentary Standing Committee of Ministry of Urban Development over the deteriorating air quality of the capital, which was scheduled for November 15, was postponed after many officials and parliamentarians gave it a miss.

Later a meeting of a parliamentary panel of urban development was held in parliament on November 20.&nbsp;

Parliamentary Standing Committee on Urban Development has called for a meeting to discuss the effects of air pollution on lungs in the specific and overall health of citizens of Delhi, on December 5.

Parliamentary Standing Committee on Urban Development has called for a meeting to discuss the effects of air pollution on lungs in the specific and overall health of citizens of Delhi, on December 5. All stakeholders including those from urban local bodies, health ministery, Indian Medical Research Council, land-owning agencies have been asked to be present at the meeting. The agenda of the meeting will be having detailed deliberations on long term solutions that can aid in improving the air quality and lessen its worst impact on the health of the city`s residents. Chief secretaries of three state- Delhi, Haryana and Punjab will be called as well after this meeting to seek a report on the steps they have taken to curb pollution. Date of this meeting is yet to be finalised, sources stated. Earlier, a meeting of Parliamentary Standing Committee of Ministry of Urban Development over the deteriorating air quality of the capital, which was scheduled for November 15, was postponed after many officials and parliamentarians gave it a miss. Later a meeting of a parliamentary panel of urban development was held in parliament on November 20.

Parliamentary Standing Committee calls meeting on December 5 over effects of pollution on citizens

The air quality in some of the areas of the national capital has improved to the moderate category while some regions still remain in the 'poor category'. 
 
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CBCP), Burari crossing, at PM 2.5, the AQI was docked at 156 at 8:30 in the morning. 
 
In capital's one of most crowded areas - ITO Delhi, the AQI was 162 while in Mathura Road&nbsp;it was 133, which falls in the moderate category. 
 
However, in Dwarka, Sector 8 and Wazirpur area, the level of air pollution was poor with PM 2.5 at 237 and 234 respectively. 
 
During winter season each year, most of northern India suffers from a spike in toxicity in the air due to the change in weather patterns and crop residue burning in the neighbouring states of Haryana, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh. 
 
Not only that, but a dip in temperature along with low wind speed also tends to trap air pollutants closer to the ground. 
 
In Delhi's adjoining Ghaziabad and Noida also, the air quality improved to the moderate category with the AQI 174 and 159. 
 
In Haryana's Gurugram also, at Vikas Sadan, the AQI docked at 111 in the morning today.

The air quality in some of the areas of the national capital has improved to the moderate category while some regions still remain in the 'poor category'. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CBCP), Burari crossing, at PM 2.

The air quality in some of the areas of the national capital has improved to the moderate category while some regions still remain in the 'poor category'. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CBCP), Burari crossing, at PM 2.5, the AQI was docked at 156 at 8:30 in the morning. In capital's one of most crowded areas - ITO Delhi, the AQI was 162 while in Mathura Road it was 133, which falls in the moderate category. However, in Dwarka, Sector 8 and Wazirpur area, the level of air pollution was poor with PM 2.5 at 237 and 234 respectively. During winter season each year, most of northern India suffers from a spike in toxicity in the air due to the change in weather patterns and crop residue burning in the neighbouring states of Haryana, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh. Not only that, but a dip in temperature along with low wind speed also tends to trap air pollutants closer to the ground. In Delhi's adjoining Ghaziabad and Noida also, the air quality improved to the moderate category with the AQI 174 and 159. In Haryana's Gurugram also, at Vikas Sadan, the AQI docked at 111 in the morning today.

Delhi-NCR: Air quality improves to 'moderate'

The air quality of Delhi on Tuesday remained in the 'poor' category for the second consecutive day with overall Air Quality Index (AQI) at 242 with PM10 at 157 and PM2.5 at 70 at 9 am, said System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). 
 
The capital received a drizzle in the morning but it did not bring down the pollution levels. The 'Poor' AQI category is forecast for November 27 as well. 
 
An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe/hazardous. 
 
AQI was 235 in Dhirpur at 9 am and it dipped to the ' poor' category at 263 in Mathura Road area. AQI near Pusa, Airport Terminal 3 and Delhi University stood at 228, 264 and 215 respectively. 
 
Residents of the city complained of breathlessness and fatigue while moving about outdoors in the morning and urged the government to take measures to deal with the problem. 
 
"I feel suffocated when I go outdoors. I just want to breathe fresh air. After all, health is wealth," said Kapil Sharma. 
 
"Pollution is a major problem in Delhi. Citizens must also make efforts to reduce pollution," said Ravinder. 
 
"The government must take stringent measures to combat the air pollution menace and steps should be taken to curb stubble burning," stressed Poonam. 
On stubble burning, the Centre-run SAFAR stated, "The fire counts as per SAFAR multi-satellite product estimate is 463 which is sufficiently high and wind arriving in Delhi are from North but fire contribution in Delhi's air quality is marginal. This is due to very high upper air transport level winds which may surpass the plume without descending in Delhi. It is an ideal example that fire counts are not directly proportional to deterioration of Delhi's AQI and meteorology playing a decisive role," the organisation stated in its advisory. 
 
SAFAR has advised 'sensitive groups' to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion. It has also advised residents to take more breaks and do less intense activities. The asthmatics have been advised to keep medicines ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. Heart patients should see a doctor if there are palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue.

The air quality of Delhi on Tuesday remained in the 'poor' category for the second consecutive day with overall Air Quality Index (AQI) at 242 with PM10 at 157 and PM2.

The air quality of Delhi on Tuesday remained in the 'poor' category for the second consecutive day with overall Air Quality Index (AQI) at 242 with PM10 at 157 and PM2.5 at 70 at 9 am, said System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). The capital received a drizzle in the morning but it did not bring down the pollution levels. The 'Poor' AQI category is forecast for November 27 as well. An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe/hazardous. AQI was 235 in Dhirpur at 9 am and it dipped to the ' poor' category at 263 in Mathura Road area. AQI near Pusa, Airport Terminal 3 and Delhi University stood at 228, 264 and 215 respectively. Residents of the city complained of breathlessness and fatigue while moving about outdoors in the morning and urged the government to take measures to deal with the problem. "I feel suffocated when I go outdoors. I just want to breathe fresh air. After all, health is wealth," said Kapil Sharma. "Pollution is a major problem in Delhi. Citizens must also make efforts to reduce pollution," said Ravinder. "The government must take stringent measures to combat the air pollution menace and steps should be taken to curb stubble burning," stressed Poonam. On stubble burning, the Centre-run SAFAR stated, "The fire counts as per SAFAR multi-satellite product estimate is 463 which is sufficiently high and wind arriving in Delhi are from North but fire contribution in Delhi's air quality is marginal. This is due to very high upper air transport level winds which may surpass the plume without descending in Delhi. It is an ideal example that fire counts are not directly proportional to deterioration of Delhi's AQI and meteorology playing a decisive role," the organisation stated in its advisory. SAFAR has advised 'sensitive groups' to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion. It has also advised residents to take more breaks and do less intense activities. The asthmatics have been advised to keep medicines ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. Heart patients should see a doctor if there are palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue.

Delhi: Air quality remains 'poor' despite early morning drizzle

Delhi Fire Service on Saturday deployed 20 fire tenders to spray water on trees and roads at polluted areas in the city as a measure to control pollution levels.

The fire tenders have been deployed at Rohini, Dwarka, Okhla Phase II, Punjabi Bagh, Anand Vihar, Vivek Vihar, Wazirpur, Jahangir Puri, RK Puram, Bawana, Narela, Mundka and Mayapuri.

People residing in the national capital were breathing polluted air for the third consecutive day on Saturday with overall AQI at 326, which falls in the `very poor` category, at 9 in the morning.

At Lodhi Road, the AQI was 317 while in Chandni Chowk, the pollution level was around 346. Around IIT Delhi and Airport Terminal 3, the AQI was 319 and 328 respectively, said System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Delhi Fire Service on Saturday deployed 20 fire tenders to spray water on trees and roads at polluted areas in the city as a measure to control pollution levels.

Delhi Fire Service on Saturday deployed 20 fire tenders to spray water on trees and roads at polluted areas in the city as a measure to control pollution levels. The fire tenders have been deployed at Rohini, Dwarka, Okhla Phase II, Punjabi Bagh, Anand Vihar, Vivek Vihar, Wazirpur, Jahangir Puri, RK Puram, Bawana, Narela, Mundka and Mayapuri. People residing in the national capital were breathing polluted air for the third consecutive day on Saturday with overall AQI at 326, which falls in the `very poor` category, at 9 in the morning. At Lodhi Road, the AQI was 317 while in Chandni Chowk, the pollution level was around 346. Around IIT Delhi and Airport Terminal 3, the AQI was 319 and 328 respectively, said System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

Delhi Fire Service deploys 20 fire tenders across city to counter air pollution

Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday expressed confidence that air pollution in the national capital will be reduced in lesser time than taken by China to address the problem of pollution in Beijing and called for the people`s movement to deal with the problem.

Replying to debate over air pollution in the Lok Sabha, Javadekar said that a national knowledge network has been created and scientists meet daily to find new ways to deal with the problem of pollution.

The minister said that India will provide leadership on climate change and will be able to deal with the problem of pollution soon.

He said every individual has to make a contribution to combating pollution as part of the people`s movement.

"The government will also take everyone along. I have confidence that if it took 15 years to tackle the problem of pollution in Beijing, we will do it in lesser time and do it collectively," he said.

He said that there is only one earth and resources are depleting. Pointing to difference between climate change and air pollution, Javadekar said there has been excessive emission of carbon dioxide during the industralisation of the western world and this gas remains in the atmosphere for a very long time and impedes the flow of heat generated by the sun.

"This is leading to a rise in temperature of the earth," he said. Javadekar said that in contrast, pollutants which cause air pollution disappear in a short time.

He said India is not responsible for climate change and its carbon emissions are far less than the developed world.

"We are not a cause of the problem, but ultimately we are suffering and everybody is suffering. So, as a responsible country, India has decided to become a part of the solution," he said.

The minister said that India was committed to increasing the share of renewable power in its energy mix to 40 per cent and has already scaled up the production target from 1,75,000 MW of renewable energy to 4,50,000 MW.

He said that India will also reduce its emission intensity by 35 per cent and steps have been taken in this direction. Stressing on afforestation, he said trees absorb carbon and produce wood.

"In the coming 10 years, we will create forests on a large scale. We have the highest target in the world. The green cover has increased by 13,000 square kilometres in the last four years," he said.

The minister said that India has also announced that it will make 26 million hectare barren land green in the next 10 years. Javadekar said he will visit Spain next month for CoP 25 and India`s position is straight.

"India is doing what it had said and every country has to fulfill its promise made in the Paris Climate Agreement. The developing world should get finance, 100 billion dollars that were committed. Technology should be given at an affordable cost. If technology is not given, the change will not happen soon," he said.

Stressing on sustainable development, he cited the instance of Delhi metro and said both that "development and environment protection have to go hand-in-hand."

Javadekar said that five times more trees have been planted than the trees cut for the construction of the metro. The minister said that the government has prepared the National Clean Air programme and released funds according to the needs of the cities to reduce the pollution level.

He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Air Quality Index in 2015 and devices for measuring air quality have been installed at 730 places in 344 cities.

Javadekar said that poor air quality of Delhi was also related to its geography and noted that Indo-Gangetic plain has the highest level of pollution.

"Because there is moisture from Ganga, from the Himalayas, there are cold winds or slow winds. Delhi is like a bowl. If the wind speed is 20 km, the air will get clean but if it is less than 20 km, the air stays there and that is the reason for more pollution," he said.

Reading from the report of a scientist, he said, "Meteorology plays a dominant role in Delhi`s air quality and also other places` air quality. Ventilation Index defined as a product of wind speed and mixing height is a significant factor affecting air quality."

"Winters are dominated by cold dry air and ground-based inversions with low wind conditions which make the air stagnant and creates an unfavourable condition for dispersion," he said.

He said that air pollution is caused by industry, vehicles, dust and bio-mass and listed the steps taken by the government to address each aspect including the closure of coal-based power plant in the capital, expansion of metro network and construction of peripheral highways.

He urged the people to create their own oxygen bank by planting seven trees. Javadekar said that they had started a school nursery programme and the child will take a sapling home when results are declared.

The minister said higher awareness had led to fewer bursting of crackers during Diwali. He also laid stress on using electric-vehicles.

The minister said that the Indian tradition teaches to live with nature and cited examples of clothes being dried in sun and not through an electric dryer and clothes of children being passed from generation to generation.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday expressed confidence that air pollution in the national capital will be reduced in lesser time than taken by China to address the problem of pollution in Beijing and called for the people`s movement to deal with the problem.

Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday expressed confidence that air pollution in the national capital will be reduced in lesser time than taken by China to address the problem of pollution in Beijing and called for the people`s movement to deal with the problem. Replying to debate over air pollution in the Lok Sabha, Javadekar said that a national knowledge network has been created and scientists meet daily to find new ways to deal with the problem of pollution. The minister said that India will provide leadership on climate change and will be able to deal with the problem of pollution soon. He said every individual has to make a contribution to combating pollution as part of the people`s movement. "The government will also take everyone along. I have confidence that if it took 15 years to tackle the problem of pollution in Beijing, we will do it in lesser time and do it collectively," he said. He said that there is only one earth and resources are depleting. Pointing to difference between climate change and air pollution, Javadekar said there has been excessive emission of carbon dioxide during the industralisation of the western world and this gas remains in the atmosphere for a very long time and impedes the flow of heat generated by the sun. "This is leading to a rise in temperature of the earth," he said. Javadekar said that in contrast, pollutants which cause air pollution disappear in a short time. He said India is not responsible for climate change and its carbon emissions are far less than the developed world. "We are not a cause of the problem, but ultimately we are suffering and everybody is suffering. So, as a responsible country, India has decided to become a part of the solution," he said. The minister said that India was committed to increasing the share of renewable power in its energy mix to 40 per cent and has already scaled up the production target from 1,75,000 MW of renewable energy to 4,50,000 MW. He said that India will also reduce its emission intensity by 35 per cent and steps have been taken in this direction. Stressing on afforestation, he said trees absorb carbon and produce wood. "In the coming 10 years, we will create forests on a large scale. We have the highest target in the world. The green cover has increased by 13,000 square kilometres in the last four years," he said. The minister said that India has also announced that it will make 26 million hectare barren land green in the next 10 years. Javadekar said he will visit Spain next month for CoP 25 and India`s position is straight. "India is doing what it had said and every country has to fulfill its promise made in the Paris Climate Agreement. The developing world should get finance, 100 billion dollars that were committed. Technology should be given at an affordable cost. If technology is not given, the change will not happen soon," he said. Stressing on sustainable development, he cited the instance of Delhi metro and said both that "development and environment protection have to go hand-in-hand." Javadekar said that five times more trees have been planted than the trees cut for the construction of the metro. The minister said that the government has prepared the National Clean Air programme and released funds according to the needs of the cities to reduce the pollution level. He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Air Quality Index in 2015 and devices for measuring air quality have been installed at 730 places in 344 cities. Javadekar said that poor air quality of Delhi was also related to its geography and noted that Indo-Gangetic plain has the highest level of pollution. "Because there is moisture from Ganga, from the Himalayas, there are cold winds or slow winds. Delhi is like a bowl. If the wind speed is 20 km, the air will get clean but if it is less than 20 km, the air stays there and that is the reason for more pollution," he said. Reading from the report of a scientist, he said, "Meteorology plays a dominant role in Delhi`s air quality and also other places` air quality. Ventilation Index defined as a product of wind speed and mixing height is a significant factor affecting air quality." "Winters are dominated by cold dry air and ground-based inversions with low wind conditions which make the air stagnant and creates an unfavourable condition for dispersion," he said. He said that air pollution is caused by industry, vehicles, dust and bio-mass and listed the steps taken by the government to address each aspect including the closure of coal-based power plant in the capital, expansion of metro network and construction of peripheral highways. He urged the people to create their own oxygen bank by planting seven trees. Javadekar said that they had started a school nursery programme and the child will take a sapling home when results are declared. The minister said higher awareness had led to fewer bursting of crackers during Diwali. He also laid stress on using electric-vehicles. The minister said that the Indian tradition teaches to live with nature and cited examples of clothes being dried in sun and not through an electric dryer and clothes of children being passed from generation to generation.

Will take lesser time than Beijing: Javadekar on tackling Delhi's air pollution

Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Thursday told Rajya Sabha that several initiatives have been taken to "abate and control <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-ncr-air-quality-dips-to-very-poor-might-drop-to-severe-category-263515">air pollution in Delhi/NCR</a>".

Javadekar told the Upper House that a high-level task force was constituted under the chairmanship of the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister for the same and that "regular review meetings have been held," news agency ANI quoted the minister.&nbsp;

The minister also said that a comprehensive air plan for Delhi NCR has been developed, "identifying the timelines and implementing agencies for actions delineated".&nbsp;

He also said that the Central government has notified a graded response action plan for Delhi/NCR for different levels of pollution.

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Prakash Javadekar in Rajya Sabha: A comprehensive air plan for Delhi NCR has been developed identifying the timelines and implementing agencies for actions delineated. Centre has notified a graded response action plan for Delhi NCR for different levels of pollution <a href="https://t.co/HeKerh0OTu">https://t.co/HeKerh0OTu</a>
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The air quality in Delhi-NCR plunged into 'very poor' category again on Thursday and is expected to drop to 'severe' by tomorrow, as per the data provided by System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

The Air Quality Index (AQI) today was recorded at 312 with PM 10 at 142 and PM 2.5 at 72.

"The overall Delhi AQI is in the very poor category and is slowly declining and may further deteriorate by tomorrow towards the higher end of the very poor scale and may touch 'severe' in some parts of Delhi by November 22," stated the organisation in its advisory.

The pollution in Delhi can be attributed to two factors - slow surface winds in Delhi, and increasing fire counts compared to last week. Additionally, stubble level winds from the burning sites will contribute to the pollution.

The national capital and the adjoining areas have been grappling with poor air quality after Diwali last month. While schools were shut for multiple days across Delhi/NCR to keep children away from the adverse effects of worsening pollution levels, construction activities were also halted on some days.&nbsp;

The Kejriwal government also initiated the 'Odd-Even' vehicular scheme earlier this month with an aim to abate the pollution.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Thursday told Rajya Sabha that several initiatives have been taken to "abate and control air pollution in Delhi/NCR". Javadekar told the Upper House that a high-level task force was constituted under the chairmanship of the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister for the same and that "regular review meetings have been held," news agency ANI quoted the minister.

Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Thursday told Rajya Sabha that several initiatives have been taken to "abate and control air pollution in Delhi/NCR". Javadekar told the Upper House that a high-level task force was constituted under the chairmanship of the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister for the same and that "regular review meetings have been held," news agency ANI quoted the minister. The minister also said that a comprehensive air plan for Delhi NCR has been developed, "identifying the timelines and implementing agencies for actions delineated". He also said that the Central government has notified a graded response action plan for Delhi/NCR for different levels of pollution. Prakash Javadekar in Rajya Sabha: A comprehensive air plan for Delhi NCR has been developed identifying the timelines and implementing agencies for actions delineated. Centre has notified a graded response action plan for Delhi NCR for different levels of pollution https://t.co/HeKerh0OTu — ANI (@ANI) November 21, 2019 × The air quality in Delhi-NCR plunged into 'very poor' category again on Thursday and is expected to drop to 'severe' by tomorrow, as per the data provided by System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). The Air Quality Index (AQI) today was recorded at 312 with PM 10 at 142 and PM 2.5 at 72. "The overall Delhi AQI is in the very poor category and is slowly declining and may further deteriorate by tomorrow towards the higher end of the very poor scale and may touch 'severe' in some parts of Delhi by November 22," stated the organisation in its advisory. The pollution in Delhi can be attributed to two factors - slow surface winds in Delhi, and increasing fire counts compared to last week. Additionally, stubble level winds from the burning sites will contribute to the pollution. The national capital and the adjoining areas have been grappling with poor air quality after Diwali last month. While schools were shut for multiple days across Delhi/NCR to keep children away from the adverse effects of worsening pollution levels, construction activities were also halted on some days. The Kejriwal government also initiated the 'Odd-Even' vehicular scheme earlier this month with an aim to abate the pollution. (With inputs from ANI)

Comprehensive plan to tackle air pollution in Delhi, NCR has been developed: Javadekar

BJP leader Vijay Goel on Thursday accused the Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP government in Delhi of not taking enough measures to address air pollution in the national capital over the last five years.

"Kejriwal did not take steps to tackle air pollution and bad water quality. He did not show his concern to around two crore people of Delhi. Earlier, water was not coming in Delhi but now water is coming, but it's contaminated. They are doing politics on this matter. Even the Supreme Court said that the odd-even scheme is not enough to tackle air pollution," he told ANI.

"90 per cent pollution happens from local sources such as road construction, smoke coming out from vehicles, dust and industrial pollution. Stubble burning was an excuse. It was being done for the last 30 days. So, the Kejriwal government has not done anything in the last five years," Goel said.

The air quality in Delhi and its adjoining areas such as Gurugram, Noida, Ghaziabad and Faridabad again plunged to 'very poor' category on Thursday and is expected to fall into 'severe' category by tomorrow, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

Today, the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of the national capital docked at 312.

Earlier today, Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar said that a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/several-initiatives-have-been-taken-to-abate-control-air-pollution-in-delhi-ncr-prakash-javadekar-263629">comprehensive plan for Delhi NCR has been developed</a> identifying the timelines for abating and controlling air pollution in the region.

"In order to abate and control air pollution in Delhi NCR, we have undertaken several initiatives. A high-level task force was constituted under the chairmanship of the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister. Regular review meetings have been held," Javadekar said in the Rajya Sabha.

"The Centre has notified a graded response action plan for Delhi NCR for different levels of pollution," he added.&nbsp;

BJP leader Vijay Goel on Thursday accused the Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP government in Delhi of not taking enough measures to address air pollution in the national capital over the last five years.

BJP leader Vijay Goel on Thursday accused the Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP government in Delhi of not taking enough measures to address air pollution in the national capital over the last five years. "Kejriwal did not take steps to tackle air pollution and bad water quality. He did not show his concern to around two crore people of Delhi. Earlier, water was not coming in Delhi but now water is coming, but it's contaminated. They are doing politics on this matter. Even the Supreme Court said that the odd-even scheme is not enough to tackle air pollution," he told ANI. "90 per cent pollution happens from local sources such as road construction, smoke coming out from vehicles, dust and industrial pollution. Stubble burning was an excuse. It was being done for the last 30 days. So, the Kejriwal government has not done anything in the last five years," Goel said. The air quality in Delhi and its adjoining areas such as Gurugram, Noida, Ghaziabad and Faridabad again plunged to 'very poor' category on Thursday and is expected to fall into 'severe' category by tomorrow, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). Today, the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of the national capital docked at 312. Earlier today, Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar said that a comprehensive plan for Delhi NCR has been developed identifying the timelines for abating and controlling air pollution in the region. "In order to abate and control air pollution in Delhi NCR, we have undertaken several initiatives. A high-level task force was constituted under the chairmanship of the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister. Regular review meetings have been held," Javadekar said in the Rajya Sabha. "The Centre has notified a graded response action plan for Delhi NCR for different levels of pollution," he added.

AAP didn't take steps to tackle air pollution in last 5 years: Vijay Goel

The toxic air in the Indian capital city and its adjoining areas maintained its intensity as the air quality observed on early Friday was still in the "severe" mark. Watch this video to know more.

Drastic dip in air quality of Indian capital Delhi

A puff of fresh air is all for what the Indian capital New Delhi is gasping for over the last 15-20 days as air quality is hovering from 'poor' to 'severe plus' category since late October. Although its effects are unproven, middle-aged and elderly residents were flocking to 'Oxygen bar', that is offering the city a 15-minute session to inhale a cocktail of oxygen in different flavours, for 500 rupees ($7).

Delhi Odd-Even scheme ends today, ‘Oxygen Bar’ sells puff of fresh air to pollution-hit Delhi

Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority on Wednesday issued recommendations directing schools in Delhi/NCR to remain shut for the coming two days in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/punjab-haryana-should-take-steps-to-convert-stubble-into-cng-coal-kejriwal-261828">wake worsening air quality</a>.&nbsp;

The anti-pollution body has also directed industries using coal and other such fuels, hot mix plants et cetera to remain closed till November 15, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Wednesday asked the AAP-led Delhi government to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-asks-delhi-government-to-submit-data-on-pollution-levels-261848">provide data on pollution levels</a> in the national capital from the date on which the odd-even scheme commenced till November 14.

A bench of Justices Arun Mishra and Deepak Gupta issued a notice to the Delhi government on a petition challenging the odd-even rationing scheme formulated by it.

The top court also asked the city government and Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to provide data on the air quality index (AQI) from October 1 to December 31 of last year.

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Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority has issued recommendations for Delhi NCR, Schools should remain closed for next 2 days and industries using coal and other such fuels, hot mix plants etc should remain closed till 15th. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AirQuality?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AirQuality</a> <a href="https://t.co/vs7RBwhEYO">pic.twitter.com/vs7RBwhEYO</a>
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Cooler temperatures and lighter wind trapped heavy smog over the Indian capital on Wednesday, pushing pollution to "severe" levels in many places with no immediate relief in sight, government agencies said.

The overall air quality index (AQI) in the city was 494, according to the monitoring agency SAFAR.

The index measures the levels of airborne PM 2.5 - particles that can reach deep into the lungs. Anything above 60 is considered unhealthy.

With the cool season setting in, the city was likely to suffer for weeks, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

"Now that it is getting colder, air is not rising high enough to disperse pollutants. The whole trapping is happening close to the ground," said Anumita Roy Chowdhury, an executive director at Centre for Science and Environment, a Delhi-based research and advocacy organisation.

The Central Pollution Control Board said pollution levels had touched 500 in some parts of the city, meaning danger for healthy people, not just those suffering from existing conditions.

Farmers burning stubble in their fields in areas around the city have been generating clouds of acrid smoke, SAFAR said, and the smog could get even worse.

"No sudden recovery is expected under this condition at least for the next two days and AQI is likely to deteriorate further," it said.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority on Wednesday issued recommendations directing schools in Delhi/NCR to remain shut for the coming two days in the wake worsening air quality.

Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority on Wednesday issued recommendations directing schools in Delhi/NCR to remain shut for the coming two days in the wake worsening air quality. The anti-pollution body has also directed industries using coal and other such fuels, hot mix plants et cetera to remain closed till November 15, news agency ANI reported. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Wednesday asked the AAP-led Delhi government to provide data on pollution levels in the national capital from the date on which the odd-even scheme commenced till November 14. A bench of Justices Arun Mishra and Deepak Gupta issued a notice to the Delhi government on a petition challenging the odd-even rationing scheme formulated by it. The top court also asked the city government and Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to provide data on the air quality index (AQI) from October 1 to December 31 of last year. Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority has issued recommendations for Delhi NCR, Schools should remain closed for next 2 days and industries using coal and other such fuels, hot mix plants etc should remain closed till 15th. #AirQuality pic.twitter.com/vs7RBwhEYO — ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2019 × Cooler temperatures and lighter wind trapped heavy smog over the Indian capital on Wednesday, pushing pollution to "severe" levels in many places with no immediate relief in sight, government agencies said. The overall air quality index (AQI) in the city was 494, according to the monitoring agency SAFAR. The index measures the levels of airborne PM 2.5 - particles that can reach deep into the lungs. Anything above 60 is considered unhealthy. With the cool season setting in, the city was likely to suffer for weeks, news agency Reuters reported. "Now that it is getting colder, air is not rising high enough to disperse pollutants. The whole trapping is happening close to the ground," said Anumita Roy Chowdhury, an executive director at Centre for Science and Environment, a Delhi-based research and advocacy organisation. The Central Pollution Control Board said pollution levels had touched 500 in some parts of the city, meaning danger for healthy people, not just those suffering from existing conditions. Farmers burning stubble in their fields in areas around the city have been generating clouds of acrid smoke, SAFAR said, and the smog could get even worse. "No sudden recovery is expected under this condition at least for the next two days and AQI is likely to deteriorate further," it said. (With inputs from agencies)

As air pollution soars in Delhi, schools to remain shut for two days 

Delhi and its adjoining regions including Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad and Ghaziabad on Tuesday were engulfed by a dense, noxious smog that reduced visibility, and brought the air quality to `very poor` level, reported news agency ANI.

Delhi and its adjoining regions including Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad and Ghaziabad on Tuesday were engulfed by a dense, noxious smog that reduced visibility, and brought the air quality to `very poor` level, reported news agency ANI. The overall air quality of the national capital docked at 376 at 8:30am on Tuesday, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). Delhi: Anand Vihar at 441(severe) and Rohini at 440(severe) on Air Quality Index (AQI) (file pic) pic.twitter.com/8sWhV7Ll0c — ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2019 × At Dhirpur, the AQI was 388 while at Delhi University it was 382. At Lodhi Road and IIT Delhi, the AQI was 360 and 369, respectively. Today, the minimum and maximum temperature of Delhi will hover around 14 degrees Celsius and 27 degrees Celsius with the humidity at 46 per cent. The shallow fog will envelop the region throughout the day. The Center-run SAFAR has advised people to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion. "Take more breaks and do less intense activities. Asthmatics, keep medicine ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. Heart patients, see doctor, if get palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue," it said in an advisory. During winter season each year, most of northern India suffers from a spike in toxicity in the air due to the change in weather patterns and crop residue burning in states of Haryana, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh. Not only that, but a dip in temperature along with low wind speed also tends to trap air pollutants closer to the ground. (With inputs from ANI)

Toxic air leaves Delhi-NCR gasping for breath

Scores of Delhi residents were spotted in India's western resort state of Goa, taking escape vacations away from the city as the air quality in the national capital was declared 'severe plus' over the past week and a public health emergency was announced.

Goa's beaches are often seen occupied by tourists but the tourists had a good fraction of Delhi residents here as seen on Thursday (November 07).

A Delhi resident Vidya said that she felt that she was finally able to breathe after coming to Goa.

Anything above 401 is classified as 'severe'. Air pollution at that level can seriously affect those with existing respiratory illnesses and even those who are otherwise healthy. New Delhi's air quality index, last week, had crossed 500 on the scale and was declared 'severe plus'.

PM 2.5, or tiny particulate matter that is less than 2.5 microns in diameter, are considered particularly dangerous because they lodge deep in the lungs. PM 10 is another pollutant that is inhaled when people breathe through their mouths.

Scores of Delhi residents were spotted in India's western resort state of Goa, taking escape vacations away from the city as the air quality in the national capital was declared 'severe plus' over the past week and a public health emergency was announced.

Scores of Delhi residents were spotted in India's western resort state of Goa, taking escape vacations away from the city as the air quality in the national capital was declared 'severe plus' over the past week and a public health emergency was announced. Goa's beaches are often seen occupied by tourists but the tourists had a good fraction of Delhi residents here as seen on Thursday (November 07). A Delhi resident Vidya said that she felt that she was finally able to breathe after coming to Goa. Anything above 401 is classified as 'severe'. Air pollution at that level can seriously affect those with existing respiratory illnesses and even those who are otherwise healthy. New Delhi's air quality index, last week, had crossed 500 on the scale and was declared 'severe plus'. PM 2.5, or tiny particulate matter that is less than 2.5 microns in diameter, are considered particularly dangerous because they lodge deep in the lungs. PM 10 is another pollutant that is inhaled when people breathe through their mouths.

'I can finally breathe': Delhi residents escape to beaches of Goa away from toxic air

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday chaired the 31st interaction through 'PRAGATI'&nbsp;and asked the Agriculture Ministry to distribute equipment to farmers of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh on a priority basis to tackle stubble burning.

He said that transport and agriculture ministries should come together to develop an e-model of logistics support for agricultural products. The prime minister also called for deploying young officers in aspirational districts and setting timelines to bring them up to national average.

According to an official release, prime minister gave explicit instructions for speedy completion of Katra-Banihal Railway Line by next year and said that Delhi-Meerut Expressway should be completed by the revised timeline of May 2020.

He said that long-delayed projects should be expedited by the respective state governments and directed that regular reports on the progress of such projects be sent to his office.

The release said that in the previous PRAGATI meetings, a total of 265 projects with a total investment of Rs 12.15 lakh crore, besides 47 schemes and grievances related to 17 sectors had been reviewed.

The PRAGATI meeting -- ICT based multi-modal platform for Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation -- witnessed a review of nine projects worth over Rs 61,000 crore related to 16 states and the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Grievances of Indian citizens working abroad along with subjects like National Agriculture Market and Aspirational District Programme were also discussed.

In the review of the progress of Aspirational District Programme, the prime minister was informed about dashboard based on 49 performance indicators.

"Even slow-moving indicators like the status of nutrition have shown tremendous progress. It was also noted that some districts of Uttar Pradesh have shown impressive growth," the release said.

Calling it an act of national service, the prime minister laid stress on the importance of focussing on education and healthcare of tribal children. "He emphasized the need to decide on timelines to bring the backward districts up to the national average. He also stressed that young officers must be deployed in Aspirational Districts," the release said.

The prime minister was informed about the progress in the National Agriculture Market platform, which has helped in better price discovery. "E-payments are now being made directly into the account of farmers. Progress in the development of two integrated e-mandis in Jammu and Kashmir was also reviewed," the release said.

"Prime minister directed that based on e-models of demand aggregation, Ministry of Road, Transport and Highways and Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers'&nbsp;Welfare should work together on a new start-up model of logistics support, particularly with regard to the transfer of agricultural products from one state to another," the release said.

It said that all the states must come together and use a common, integrated platform for smooth operation.

"On the issue of stubble burning, Prime Minister directed Agriculture Ministry to give priority to the farmers of the states of Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Haryana in the distribution of equipment to prevent such occurrences," the release said.

Modi reviewed the progress of infrastructure connectivity projects including Katra-Banihal Railway Line."He gave explicit instructions on speedy completion of the project by next year," the release said.

Several projects in the north-east like the widening and up-gradation of Aizawl-Tuipang highway project was also discussed.

"To provide faster and safer connectivity between Delhi and Meerut, the prime minister said that Delhi-Meerut Expressway should be completed by the revised timeline of May 2020," the release said.

On the renewable energy front, Prime Minister chaired discussions about the creation of an intra-state transmission system in eight renewable energy-rich states - Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.

He enquired about difficulties being faced by solar and wind power companies in starting new projects, including in the land acquisition process. The prime minister congratulated the state governments of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh for progress made in timely completion of the project related to the strengthening of transmission system beyond Vemagiri.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday chaired the 31st interaction through 'PRAGATI' and asked the Agriculture Ministry to distribute equipment to farmers of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh on a priority basis to tackle stubble burning.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday chaired the 31st interaction through 'PRAGATI' and asked the Agriculture Ministry to distribute equipment to farmers of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh on a priority basis to tackle stubble burning. He said that transport and agriculture ministries should come together to develop an e-model of logistics support for agricultural products. The prime minister also called for deploying young officers in aspirational districts and setting timelines to bring them up to national average. According to an official release, prime minister gave explicit instructions for speedy completion of Katra-Banihal Railway Line by next year and said that Delhi-Meerut Expressway should be completed by the revised timeline of May 2020. He said that long-delayed projects should be expedited by the respective state governments and directed that regular reports on the progress of such projects be sent to his office. The release said that in the previous PRAGATI meetings, a total of 265 projects with a total investment of Rs 12.15 lakh crore, besides 47 schemes and grievances related to 17 sectors had been reviewed. The PRAGATI meeting -- ICT based multi-modal platform for Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation -- witnessed a review of nine projects worth over Rs 61,000 crore related to 16 states and the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Grievances of Indian citizens working abroad along with subjects like National Agriculture Market and Aspirational District Programme were also discussed. In the review of the progress of Aspirational District Programme, the prime minister was informed about dashboard based on 49 performance indicators. "Even slow-moving indicators like the status of nutrition have shown tremendous progress. It was also noted that some districts of Uttar Pradesh have shown impressive growth," the release said. Calling it an act of national service, the prime minister laid stress on the importance of focussing on education and healthcare of tribal children. "He emphasized the need to decide on timelines to bring the backward districts up to the national average. He also stressed that young officers must be deployed in Aspirational Districts," the release said. The prime minister was informed about the progress in the National Agriculture Market platform, which has helped in better price discovery. "E-payments are now being made directly into the account of farmers. Progress in the development of two integrated e-mandis in Jammu and Kashmir was also reviewed," the release said. "Prime minister directed that based on e-models of demand aggregation, Ministry of Road, Transport and Highways and Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare should work together on a new start-up model of logistics support, particularly with regard to the transfer of agricultural products from one state to another," the release said. It said that all the states must come together and use a common, integrated platform for smooth operation. "On the issue of stubble burning, Prime Minister directed Agriculture Ministry to give priority to the farmers of the states of Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Haryana in the distribution of equipment to prevent such occurrences," the release said. Modi reviewed the progress of infrastructure connectivity projects including Katra-Banihal Railway Line."He gave explicit instructions on speedy completion of the project by next year," the release said. Several projects in the north-east like the widening and up-gradation of Aizawl-Tuipang highway project was also discussed. "To provide faster and safer connectivity between Delhi and Meerut, the prime minister said that Delhi-Meerut Expressway should be completed by the revised timeline of May 2020," the release said. On the renewable energy front, Prime Minister chaired discussions about the creation of an intra-state transmission system in eight renewable energy-rich states - Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. He enquired about difficulties being faced by solar and wind power companies in starting new projects, including in the land acquisition process. The prime minister congratulated the state governments of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh for progress made in timely completion of the project related to the strengthening of transmission system beyond Vemagiri.

PM Modi orders distribution of equipment to farmers on 'priority' to stop stubble burning

Air quality in Delhi has dipped to severe category and its high time to take urgent action to protect yourself from smog. Watch this episode of WION Wideangle to know about the ways adopted by people in Delhi to tackle the Airpocalypse.

WION Wideangle: Tackling India's Airpocalypse

The past 24 hours have brought some relief to the people residing in the national capital and its adjoining areas such as Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad and Ghaziabad as the air quality index (AQI) on Tuesday slightly improved from `severe` to `very poor` category in Delhi-NCR, stated the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

At 9 in the morning today, the overall AQI of Delhi docked at 381, which falls in the `very poor` category. The AQI between the range of 51 to 100 is considered as satisfactory, 101-200 is moderate, 201-300 falls under the category of poor. While 300-400 is considered as `very poor`, levels between 401-500 fall under the `hazardous category`.At Dhirpur, the AQI was 271 in the morning, while in Mathura Road area it dipped to `poor` category at 236. Furthermore, AQI near Chandni Chowk, Airport, Terminal 3 and Delhi University stood at 375, 234 and 256 respectively.

Locals especially the middle-aged people complained of breathless and fatigue urged the Delhi government to take requisite measures to combat the menace.

"The pollution is increasing in Delhi. The government must do something. My children are also getting affected," said Pramod Sharma, a local while speaking to ANI.

"The government must roll out a policy so that the vehicles can be reduced on roads. I do cycling every day but now in this pollution, it is getting difficult for me. Things will become worse in the future if some actions are not taken," said Javed Ahmad, another local.

Due to a thick blanket of smog, the visibility in the city also dropped affecting the road traffic at major junctions such as Signature Bridge and Akshardham Temple road.

To curb air pollution, the Arvind Kejriwal-led government in Delhi has announced the implementation of the Odd-Even scheme from November 4 till November 15, 2019.

The past 24 hours have brought some relief to the people residing in the national capital and its adjoining areas such as Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad and Ghaziabad as the air quality index (AQI) on Tuesday slightly improved from `severe` to `very poor` category in Delhi-NCR, stated the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

The past 24 hours have brought some relief to the people residing in the national capital and its adjoining areas such as Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad and Ghaziabad as the air quality index (AQI) on Tuesday slightly improved from `severe` to `very poor` category in Delhi-NCR, stated the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). At 9 in the morning today, the overall AQI of Delhi docked at 381, which falls in the `very poor` category. The AQI between the range of 51 to 100 is considered as satisfactory, 101-200 is moderate, 201-300 falls under the category of poor. While 300-400 is considered as `very poor`, levels between 401-500 fall under the `hazardous category`.At Dhirpur, the AQI was 271 in the morning, while in Mathura Road area it dipped to `poor` category at 236. Furthermore, AQI near Chandni Chowk, Airport, Terminal 3 and Delhi University stood at 375, 234 and 256 respectively. Locals especially the middle-aged people complained of breathless and fatigue urged the Delhi government to take requisite measures to combat the menace. "The pollution is increasing in Delhi. The government must do something. My children are also getting affected," said Pramod Sharma, a local while speaking to ANI. "The government must roll out a policy so that the vehicles can be reduced on roads. I do cycling every day but now in this pollution, it is getting difficult for me. Things will become worse in the future if some actions are not taken," said Javed Ahmad, another local. Due to a thick blanket of smog, the visibility in the city also dropped affecting the road traffic at major junctions such as Signature Bridge and Akshardham Temple road. To curb air pollution, the Arvind Kejriwal-led government in Delhi has announced the implementation of the Odd-Even scheme from November 4 till November 15, 2019.

Delhi's air quality improves but still under 'very poor' category

Delhi's Air Pollution Crisis: An Annual Nightmare.

Gravitas: Stop The Politics, Clear Delhi's Air

The Central government on Sunday deployed 300 teams in the national capital to tackle the menace of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/health-advisory-issued-for-delhiites-says-stay-indoors-wear-masks-259748">air pollution in the national capital</a> and the adjoining areas.&nbsp;

Pollution levels in Delhi-NCR have escalated to 'severe plus' and emergency-like level with the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority sounding a public health emergency in the region.&nbsp;

The teams have been deployed with a special focus on seven Industrial clusters and major traffic corridors across Delhi-NCR, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, the principal secretary to Prime Minister, PK Mishra, held a meeting on the rise in air pollution in Delhi-NCR.

The Centre informed that similar arrangements have also been made by Punjab and Haryana and necessary machinery has been provided in the states. Neighbouring states have also been asked to reduce fire incidents and dust levels due to adverse meteorological conditions in the last three days.

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Mishra-led high-level review meeting with senior officials from Punjab, Haryana and Delhi was conducted through video-conferencing. The meeting reviewed the situation arising out of stubble burning, construction activities, burning of wastes and industrial and vehicular pollution.

State chief secretaries have been directed to monitor the situation in their respective states. The cabinet secretary will monitor the situation on daily basis.

Air pollution in New Delhi and surrounding towns reached the worst levels so far this year on Sunday, with authorities in the world's most polluted capital city having already declared a public health emergency and ordered the closure of schools.

The air quality index, measuring levels of PM 2.5, tiny particulate matter in the air, deteriorated to above 900, way over the 500-level that qualifies as "severe-plus," news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

The government environment monitoring agency SAFAR warned that no relief was expected for the next one to two days, as humidity resulting from unexpected light rains overnight had exacerbated pollution, already driven by higher the seasonal crop stubble burning by farmers in the surrounding states.

According to SAFAR, satellite pictures had captured more than 3,000 incidents of stubble burning last week in neighbouring states, contributing to 44 per cent of Delhi's pollution.

Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has said that the state government has initiated action against as many as 2,923 farmers so far in the 20,729 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/action-initiated-in-20729-cases-of-stubble-burning-punjab-cm-259743'">cases of stubble burning</a> reported till November 1 in the state.&nbsp;

In the view of worsening air quality, schools in Delhi, Noida, Gurugram and Noida <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ghaziabad-all-schools-to-remain-closed-on-november-4-and-5-due-to-air-pollution-259715">have been shut till Tuesday</a>.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Central government on Sunday deployed 300 teams in the national capital to tackle the menace of air pollution in the national capital and the adjoining areas.

The Central government on Sunday deployed 300 teams in the national capital to tackle the menace of air pollution in the national capital and the adjoining areas. Pollution levels in Delhi-NCR have escalated to 'severe plus' and emergency-like level with the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority sounding a public health emergency in the region. The teams have been deployed with a special focus on seven Industrial clusters and major traffic corridors across Delhi-NCR, news agency ANI reported. Earlier in the day, the principal secretary to Prime Minister, PK Mishra, held a meeting on the rise in air pollution in Delhi-NCR. The Centre informed that similar arrangements have also been made by Punjab and Haryana and necessary machinery has been provided in the states. Neighbouring states have also been asked to reduce fire incidents and dust levels due to adverse meteorological conditions in the last three days. × Mishra-led high-level review meeting with senior officials from Punjab, Haryana and Delhi was conducted through video-conferencing. The meeting reviewed the situation arising out of stubble burning, construction activities, burning of wastes and industrial and vehicular pollution. State chief secretaries have been directed to monitor the situation in their respective states. The cabinet secretary will monitor the situation on daily basis. Air pollution in New Delhi and surrounding towns reached the worst levels so far this year on Sunday, with authorities in the world's most polluted capital city having already declared a public health emergency and ordered the closure of schools. The air quality index, measuring levels of PM 2.5, tiny particulate matter in the air, deteriorated to above 900, way over the 500-level that qualifies as "severe-plus," news agency Reuters reported. The government environment monitoring agency SAFAR warned that no relief was expected for the next one to two days, as humidity resulting from unexpected light rains overnight had exacerbated pollution, already driven by higher the seasonal crop stubble burning by farmers in the surrounding states. According to SAFAR, satellite pictures had captured more than 3,000 incidents of stubble burning last week in neighbouring states, contributing to 44 per cent of Delhi's pollution. Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has said that the state government has initiated action against as many as 2,923 farmers so far in the 20,729 cases of stubble burning reported till November 1 in the state. In the view of worsening air quality, schools in Delhi, Noida, Gurugram and Noida have been shut till Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

Centre deploys 300 teams, focus on 7 Industrial clusters as Delhi-NCR chokes on pollution

In the backdrop of severe air pollution in Delhi-NCR and other parts of north India, PK Mishra, Principal Secretary to Prime Minister held a high-level review meeting with senior officials from Punjab, Haryana and Delhi through video-conferencing on Sunday.

The meeting was held to tackle the menace of air pollution. About 300 teams are in the field in Delhi to reduce air pollution, necessary machinery for this work has been distributed in the states.

The Chief Secretaries of these States have been asked to monitor the situation in various districts of their respective states on a 24x7 basis.

Also, the Cabinet Secretary will monitor the situation on a daily basis. Principal Secretary to PM had earlier reviewed the situation on October 24.

A series of meetings have taken place for the necessary preparation, including one meeting by the Cabinet Secretary on this subject (air pollution), on October 4.

Earlier today, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal urged the Central government to take immediate steps to provide relief from the pollution and assured full support in all its initiatives.

The National capital and its adjoining areas have been covered in a thick blanket of smog due to rising pollution from past few weeks.

The situation is such that public health emergency has also been issued by EPCA in the wake of the dipping air quality.

Taking to Twitter, Kejriwal, who has been lately slamming neighbouring states of Punjab and Haryana over the rise in pollution in Delhi said, "Pollution has reached unbearable levels across North India. Delhi government has taken many steps. Delhiites have made many sacrifices. Delhi suffering for no fault of theirs."&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

In the backdrop of severe air pollution in Delhi-NCR and other parts of north India, PK Mishra, Principal Secretary to Prime Minister held a high-level review meeting with senior officials from Punjab, Haryana and Delhi through video-conferencing on Sunday.

In the backdrop of severe air pollution in Delhi-NCR and other parts of north India, PK Mishra, Principal Secretary to Prime Minister held a high-level review meeting with senior officials from Punjab, Haryana and Delhi through video-conferencing on Sunday. The meeting was held to tackle the menace of air pollution. About 300 teams are in the field in Delhi to reduce air pollution, necessary machinery for this work has been distributed in the states. The Chief Secretaries of these States have been asked to monitor the situation in various districts of their respective states on a 24x7 basis. Also, the Cabinet Secretary will monitor the situation on a daily basis. Principal Secretary to PM had earlier reviewed the situation on October 24. A series of meetings have taken place for the necessary preparation, including one meeting by the Cabinet Secretary on this subject (air pollution), on October 4. Earlier today, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal urged the Central government to take immediate steps to provide relief from the pollution and assured full support in all its initiatives. The National capital and its adjoining areas have been covered in a thick blanket of smog due to rising pollution from past few weeks. The situation is such that public health emergency has also been issued by EPCA in the wake of the dipping air quality. Taking to Twitter, Kejriwal, who has been lately slamming neighbouring states of Punjab and Haryana over the rise in pollution in Delhi said, "Pollution has reached unbearable levels across North India. Delhi government has taken many steps. Delhiites have made many sacrifices. Delhi suffering for no fault of theirs."

Air pollution menace: Principal Secretary to PM holds meeting with officials of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana

The Directorate General of Health Service (DGHS) on Sunday released health advisory to the public for protection from air pollution, which has reached to severe level in Delhi and may result in "morbidity" among the exposed people.

"The air pollution harms and may cause respiratory illness in healthy people on prolonged exposure and even pronounced respiratory or other serious illnesses in the 'vulnerable population'&nbsp;even on short exposure," a statement issued by the DGHS.

The vulnerable population includes elderly, children below 5 years, pregnant women, persons with poor nutritional status.

Advising the public to avoid outdoor physical activities, especially during morning and late evening hours, the DGHS said that persons having occupations of prolonged exposure such as traffic policemen, traffic volunteer, rickshaw pullers, auto-rickshaw drivers, roadside vendors should take extra precautions.

The following do's and don'ts are as followed

Do's:

Remain indoors, or reschedule outdoors activities

Consult the nearest doctor in case of breathlessness, giddiness, cough, chest discomfort or pain, irritation in eyes

Use certified N-95 masks and follow user instructions

Continue use of clean smokeless fuel gas or electricity for cooking and heating purpose.

Use public transportation

Dont's:

Don't burn leaves, wood, agriculture products, garbage

Don't go to places with heavy traffic and areas near polluting places and construction sites

Don't go for morning and late evening walks, run, jog and physical exercise

Don't open doors and windows during the mornings and late evenings

Don't smoke cigarettes and related tobacco products.

Avoid driving cars, scooters and other motorised vehicles.

 
&nbsp;

The Directorate General of Health Service (DGHS) on Sunday released health advisory to the public for protection from air pollution, which has reached to severe level in Delhi and may result in "morbidity" among the exposed people.

The Directorate General of Health Service (DGHS) on Sunday released health advisory to the public for protection from air pollution, which has reached to severe level in Delhi and may result in "morbidity" among the exposed people. "The air pollution harms and may cause respiratory illness in healthy people on prolonged exposure and even pronounced respiratory or other serious illnesses in the 'vulnerable population' even on short exposure," a statement issued by the DGHS. The vulnerable population includes elderly, children below 5 years, pregnant women, persons with poor nutritional status. Advising the public to avoid outdoor physical activities, especially during morning and late evening hours, the DGHS said that persons having occupations of prolonged exposure such as traffic policemen, traffic volunteer, rickshaw pullers, auto-rickshaw drivers, roadside vendors should take extra precautions. The following do's and don'ts are as followed Do's: Remain indoors, or reschedule outdoors activities Consult the nearest doctor in case of breathlessness, giddiness, cough, chest discomfort or pain, irritation in eyes Use certified N-95 masks and follow user instructions Continue use of clean smokeless fuel gas or electricity for cooking and heating purpose. Use public transportation Dont's: Don't burn leaves, wood, agriculture products, garbage Don't go to places with heavy traffic and areas near polluting places and construction sites Don't go for morning and late evening walks, run, jog and physical exercise Don't open doors and windows during the mornings and late evenings Don't smoke cigarettes and related tobacco products. Avoid driving cars, scooters and other motorised vehicles.

Health advisory issued for Delhiites, says 'stay indoors, wear masks'

Action has been initiated against as many as 2,923 farmers so far in the 20,729 cases of stubble burning reported till November 1, in the state, said Punjab Chief Minister's Office in a statement.

The action is expected to cause a reduction of 10-20 per cent in the number of such cases this year as against 2018, the statement said. "As against a total of around 49,000 cases of stubble burning last year, this year the state government has so far received reports of 20,729 cases, with more than 70 per cent of the paddy already harvested," the statement read.

Despite the High Court having stayed the recovery of fine from farmers penalised last year, the state government has intensified its drive against the dangerous practice of stubble burning, the Chief Minister said.

According to the statement, "Even as he expressed the hope that the Prime Minister will understand, and respond positively to his letter on the grave issue of the worsening Delhi air pollution, Captain Amarinder said his government was fully seized of the problem and was working committedly to put a stop to stubble burning."

"The Enforcement Teams had, till November 1, 2019, visited 11286 fire incidents sites, and Environment Compensation amounting to Rs 41.62 lakh had been imposed in 1585 cases, Red Entry made in Khasra Girdawaris in 1136 cases, and prosecution/ FIR filed in 202 cases against the defaulting farmers," the statement said.

While admitting that Punjab was also contributing to the Delhi smog, due to the westerly upper winds, including those coming from Pakistan, Captain Amarinder said to put the blame entirely on his state was "absolutely incorrect."

Statistics showed that the parameters on the factors relating to pollution were higher in Delhi, he added. Instead of addressing the problem, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was playing political games, he said, asking what the AAP leader was doing on the ground to resolve the issue.

The situation has aggravated in recent years as the production of paddy has increased, with the last two years reporting record production in Punjab, even though the state's people were traditionally not rice-eaters, according to the Chief Minister.

He also pointed out that the cities in the state were also enveloped by smog.

Underlining the need to change the cropping pattern by weaning the farmers away from paddy, he reiterated his demand for MSP for other crops to help promote diversification.

The Central government has to step in and find a consensus to resolve the crisis, Captain Amarinder stressed.&nbsp; 
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Action has been initiated against as many as 2,923 farmers so far in the 20,729 cases of stubble burning reported till November 1, in the state, said Punjab Chief Minister's Office in a statement.

Action has been initiated against as many as 2,923 farmers so far in the 20,729 cases of stubble burning reported till November 1, in the state, said Punjab Chief Minister's Office in a statement. The action is expected to cause a reduction of 10-20 per cent in the number of such cases this year as against 2018, the statement said. "As against a total of around 49,000 cases of stubble burning last year, this year the state government has so far received reports of 20,729 cases, with more than 70 per cent of the paddy already harvested," the statement read. Despite the High Court having stayed the recovery of fine from farmers penalised last year, the state government has intensified its drive against the dangerous practice of stubble burning, the Chief Minister said. According to the statement, "Even as he expressed the hope that the Prime Minister will understand, and respond positively to his letter on the grave issue of the worsening Delhi air pollution, Captain Amarinder said his government was fully seized of the problem and was working committedly to put a stop to stubble burning." "The Enforcement Teams had, till November 1, 2019, visited 11286 fire incidents sites, and Environment Compensation amounting to Rs 41.62 lakh had been imposed in 1585 cases, Red Entry made in Khasra Girdawaris in 1136 cases, and prosecution/ FIR filed in 202 cases against the defaulting farmers," the statement said. While admitting that Punjab was also contributing to the Delhi smog, due to the westerly upper winds, including those coming from Pakistan, Captain Amarinder said to put the blame entirely on his state was "absolutely incorrect." Statistics showed that the parameters on the factors relating to pollution were higher in Delhi, he added. Instead of addressing the problem, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was playing political games, he said, asking what the AAP leader was doing on the ground to resolve the issue. The situation has aggravated in recent years as the production of paddy has increased, with the last two years reporting record production in Punjab, even though the state's people were traditionally not rice-eaters, according to the Chief Minister. He also pointed out that the cities in the state were also enveloped by smog. Underlining the need to change the cropping pattern by weaning the farmers away from paddy, he reiterated his demand for MSP for other crops to help promote diversification. The Central government has to step in and find a consensus to resolve the crisis, Captain Amarinder stressed.

Action initiated in 20,729 cases of stubble burning: Punjab CM

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that there should be no politics over pollution and all state governments and Centre should come together and discuss the issue.

"All scientists and experts are saying that pollution from stubble burning is coming to Delhi, due to which there is pollution everywhere. We don`t want to do any blame game, there should be no politics at this stage. All governments should come together and discuss the issue," Kejriwal said in a video message.

He also stated that the Delhi government has taken all measures to curb pollution but the smoke from the stubble burning has entered Delhi and has caused the Air Quality Index (AQI) to reach to alarming levels.

"We have curbed construction activities after levying fines on the builders. On Diwali, this year the children reduced the usage of crackers. People of Delhi have done everything that they can do to control the pollution. But it is because of stubble burning, that Delhi is suffering from this issue," he said.

He also urged all to follow the Odd-Even scheme which will be starting from Monday.

"Odd-even scheme is going to start from November 4 and will last up to November 15 from 8 am to 8 pm. I request people that they follow the rule, if not for themselves but for their families," he added.

Notably, for the first time in this season, the Air Quality Index (AQI) docked as high as 625 at 10 in the morning despite light drizzles in the early hours.

An AQI between 0-50 is considered "good", 51-100 "satisfactory", 101-200 "moderate", 201-300 "poor", 301-400 "very poor", and 401-500 "severe". Above 500 is "severe-plus emergency" category.&nbsp;

 
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Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that there should be no politics over pollution and all state governments and Centre should come together and discuss the issue.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that there should be no politics over pollution and all state governments and Centre should come together and discuss the issue. "All scientists and experts are saying that pollution from stubble burning is coming to Delhi, due to which there is pollution everywhere. We don`t want to do any blame game, there should be no politics at this stage. All governments should come together and discuss the issue," Kejriwal said in a video message. He also stated that the Delhi government has taken all measures to curb pollution but the smoke from the stubble burning has entered Delhi and has caused the Air Quality Index (AQI) to reach to alarming levels. "We have curbed construction activities after levying fines on the builders. On Diwali, this year the children reduced the usage of crackers. People of Delhi have done everything that they can do to control the pollution. But it is because of stubble burning, that Delhi is suffering from this issue," he said. He also urged all to follow the Odd-Even scheme which will be starting from Monday. "Odd-even scheme is going to start from November 4 and will last up to November 15 from 8 am to 8 pm. I request people that they follow the rule, if not for themselves but for their families," he added. Notably, for the first time in this season, the Air Quality Index (AQI) docked as high as 625 at 10 in the morning despite light drizzles in the early hours. An AQI between 0-50 is considered "good", 51-100 "satisfactory", 101-200 "moderate", 201-300 "poor", 301-400 "very poor", and 401-500 "severe". Above 500 is "severe-plus emergency" category.

All governments should come together to act on pollution: Arvind Kejriwal

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