The Supreme Court on Wednesday pulled up the Centre and government of northern states in India over their approach towards curbing&nbsp;pollution.&nbsp;

A bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra came down heavily on the chief secretaries of Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi on the matters related to stubble burning, construction activities, road dust among factors that contribute towards air pollution.&nbsp;

"You cannot deal with road dust, construction &amp; demolition or garbage dumping. Why are you holding the post?" Justice Mishra told Delhi Chief Secretary Ajay Kumar Dev, reports ANI.&nbsp;

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Air Pollution matter in Supreme Court: Justice Mishra asked Delhi Chief Secretary, you cannot deal with road dust, construction &amp; demolition or garbage dumping. Why are you holding the post?
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This is the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-supreme-court-asks-logic-behind-odd-even-scheme-imposes-fine-of-rs-1-lakh-on-violators-of-construction-ban-259884">second time </a>in two days the top court has&nbsp;questioned Delhi's approach towards improving&nbsp;Delhi's toxic air.

"Cars create less pollution. What are you [Delhi]&nbsp;getting from this odd-even? What is the logic behind the odd-even scheme? Banning diesel vehicles we can understand, but what is the point of odd-even scheme," the SC told the Delhi government on Monday.

The governments of Punjab and Haryana were also not sparred on the issue of stubble burning.

"We want immediate action to deal with stubble burning. It seems that there is no coordination among the officers and the state government to deal with this situation," Justice Mishra said to Punjab government, reports ANI. Justice Mishra told Punjab and neighbouring Haryana governments that they have "miserably" failed in performing its duty.&nbsp;

In order to prevent farmers from burning stubble, the SC ordered an incentive of Rs 100 per quintal to small and marginal farmers of Haryana, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh for handling residue of non-Basmati rice crops.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court also questioned the implementation of the funds coming from World Bank in order to improve infrastructure. "So much of funds have come, where is the concept of a smart city? Why have the roads not improved," Justice Mishra asked.&nbsp;

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Air Pollution matter in Supreme Court: Justice Mishra says, what is happening to the funds coming from World Bank for better infrastructure and development. So much of funds have come, where is the concept of smart city? Why have the roads not improved?
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Earlier today, Delhi's air quality improved slightly from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhis-air-quality-improves-but-still-under-very-poor-category-259978">"very poor" to "poor" category</a>. Schools also reopened&nbsp;in the national capital on Wednesday.

Due to the arrival of winter combined with other factors such as stubble burning, bursting of crackers, etc, the national capital and its adjoining areas have been covered in a thick blanket of smog from the past few weeks.

As per a report by WHO, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-orders-complete-halt-to-stubble-burning-around-delhi-260081">14 Indian cities </a>feature in world's 15 most polluted cities. Nearly 10 lakh people die each year in India due to pollution.&nbsp;

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The Supreme Court on Wednesday pulled up the Centre and government of northern states in India over their approach towards curbing pollution. A bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra came down heavily on the chief secretaries of Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi on the matters related to stubble burning, construction activities, road dust among factors that contribute towards air pollution.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday pulled up the Centre and government of northern states in India over their approach towards curbing pollution. A bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra came down heavily on the chief secretaries of Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi on the matters related to stubble burning, construction activities, road dust among factors that contribute towards air pollution. "You cannot deal with road dust, construction & demolition or garbage dumping. Why are you holding the post?" Justice Mishra told Delhi Chief Secretary Ajay Kumar Dev, reports ANI. Air Pollution matter in Supreme Court: Justice Mishra asked Delhi Chief Secretary, you cannot deal with road dust, construction & demolition or garbage dumping. Why are you holding the post? — ANI (@ANI) November 6, 2019 × This is the second time in two days the top court has questioned Delhi's approach towards improving Delhi's toxic air. "Cars create less pollution. What are you [Delhi] getting from this odd-even? What is the logic behind the odd-even scheme? Banning diesel vehicles we can understand, but what is the point of odd-even scheme," the SC told the Delhi government on Monday. The governments of Punjab and Haryana were also not sparred on the issue of stubble burning. "We want immediate action to deal with stubble burning. It seems that there is no coordination among the officers and the state government to deal with this situation," Justice Mishra said to Punjab government, reports ANI. Justice Mishra told Punjab and neighbouring Haryana governments that they have "miserably" failed in performing its duty. In order to prevent farmers from burning stubble, the SC ordered an incentive of Rs 100 per quintal to small and marginal farmers of Haryana, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh for handling residue of non-Basmati rice crops. The Supreme Court also questioned the implementation of the funds coming from World Bank in order to improve infrastructure. "So much of funds have come, where is the concept of a smart city? Why have the roads not improved," Justice Mishra asked. Air Pollution matter in Supreme Court: Justice Mishra says, what is happening to the funds coming from World Bank for better infrastructure and development. So much of funds have come, where is the concept of smart city? Why have the roads not improved? — ANI (@ANI) November 6, 2019 × Earlier today, Delhi's air quality improved slightly from "very poor" to "poor" category. Schools also reopened in the national capital on Wednesday. Due to the arrival of winter combined with other factors such as stubble burning, bursting of crackers, etc, the national capital and its adjoining areas have been covered in a thick blanket of smog from the past few weeks. As per a report by WHO, 14 Indian cities feature in world's 15 most polluted cities. Nearly 10 lakh people die each year in India due to pollution.

Supreme Court pulls up Centre, state governments over failure to improve air quality

Hundreds of people from police alongside their&nbsp;family members protested in Delhi on Tuesday over multiple incidents of violent clashes between cops and lawyers a few days ago.

Hundreds of police personnel gathered outside Police Head Quarters (PHQ) and carried their demonstrations. &nbsp;The family members of cops sloganeered and held placards claiming ''who will protect the protectors of law", "why courts turned blind", etc at India Gate in New Delhi.

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Delhi: Family members of Delhi police personnel hold protest at India Gate against the clash that broke out between police &amp; lawyers at Tis Hazari Court on 2nd November. <a href="https://t.co/bJA4Z42bi2">pic.twitter.com/bJA4Z42bi2</a>
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Senior police officers showed solidarity but requested the protesting cops to return to their duty. Rajesh Khurana, one of the senior police officers, was asked to leave by the angry&nbsp;protesters when he urged cops to return to the duty.&nbsp;

Satish Golcha, Special Commissioner of Police Delhi gave assurance to the protesters that all the injured policemen in the Tis Hazari clash will be given at least a compensation of Rs 25 thousand by Delhi Police.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-police-officers-demand-action-against-lawyers-260117/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The tussle between lawyers and Delhi cops has been ongoing from the weekend where both parties have been injured due to the violent struggle. On November 2, clashes broke out between barristers and police personnel for claiming a parking spot outside the Tis Hazari court. 
 
The lawyers set a police van on fire, while the other party&nbsp;ransacked the lawyers' chamber. At least 30 people were injured in the clash where shots were also fired.&nbsp; 
 
Later, a video surfaced where a robe-clad&nbsp;advocate was found punching and slapping a cop who was&nbsp;trying to flee on a motorcycle. This video triggered Tuesday's protests.

So, far six FIRs have been lodged.&nbsp;

"We want justice. We also have human rights, the guilty lawyers must be punished severely," said one of the protesting cops to AFP.

Lawyers also protested and some even threatened to go to an indefinite strike if their demands are not met. &nbsp;

The Central Indian Police Service (IPS) Association and police unions of various states such as Bihar, Tamil Nadu expressed solidarity with the cops over the Tis Hazari clash and demanded a fair investigation of the incident.&nbsp;

Hundreds of people from police alongside their family members protested in Delhi on Tuesday over multiple incidents of violent clashes between cops and lawyers a few days ago.

Hundreds of people from police alongside their family members protested in Delhi on Tuesday over multiple incidents of violent clashes between cops and lawyers a few days ago. Hundreds of police personnel gathered outside Police Head Quarters (PHQ) and carried their demonstrations. The family members of cops sloganeered and held placards claiming ''who will protect the protectors of law", "why courts turned blind", etc at India Gate in New Delhi. Delhi: Family members of Delhi police personnel hold protest at India Gate against the clash that broke out between police & lawyers at Tis Hazari Court on 2nd November. pic.twitter.com/bJA4Z42bi2 — ANI (@ANI) November 5, 2019 × Senior police officers showed solidarity but requested the protesting cops to return to their duty. Rajesh Khurana, one of the senior police officers, was asked to leave by the angry protesters when he urged cops to return to the duty. Satish Golcha, Special Commissioner of Police Delhi gave assurance to the protesters that all the injured policemen in the Tis Hazari clash will be given at least a compensation of Rs 25 thousand by Delhi Police. The tussle between lawyers and Delhi cops has been ongoing from the weekend where both parties have been injured due to the violent struggle. On November 2, clashes broke out between barristers and police personnel for claiming a parking spot outside the Tis Hazari court. The lawyers set a police van on fire, while the other party ransacked the lawyers' chamber. At least 30 people were injured in the clash where shots were also fired. Later, a video surfaced where a robe-clad advocate was found punching and slapping a cop who was trying to flee on a motorcycle. This video triggered Tuesday's protests. So, far six FIRs have been lodged. "We want justice. We also have human rights, the guilty lawyers must be punished severely," said one of the protesting cops to AFP. Lawyers also protested and some even threatened to go to an indefinite strike if their demands are not met. The Central Indian Police Service (IPS) Association and police unions of various states such as Bihar, Tamil Nadu expressed solidarity with the cops over the Tis Hazari clash and demanded a fair investigation of the incident.

Delhi police vs Lawyers: Hundreds of cops protest in national capital over violent clashes

New Delhi banned half the Indian capital's private cars from its roads on Monday as the megacity's 20 million people spluttered with stinging eyes in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/diplomatic-corps-expresses-concern-over-delhi-pollution-says-we-suffer-like-rest-of-delhi-259764">worst pollution in three years</a>.

As smog levels exceeded those of Beijing by more than three times, authorities also parked a van with an air purifier near the Taj Mahal,&nbsp;the iconic 17th-century marble mausoleum 250 kilometers (150 miles) south of Delhi,&nbsp;in a bid to clean the air in its surrounds.

With the pollution causing a rush of respiratory complaints at hospitals and the diversion of 37 flights on Sunday, a new law came into effect restricting cars from the capital's roads to alternative days, depending on if their number plate ends in an odd or even number.&nbsp;

More than 600 police teams were deployed at road intersections in the capital with the power to hand out fines of 4,000 rupees (nearly $60) to transgressors

Exempt from the restrictions were Delhi's seven million motorbikes and scooters, public transport and cars carrying only women, stoking criticism that the measures were ineffective.

"There is smoke everywhere and people, including youngsters, kids, elderly are finding it difficult to breathe," Delhi's chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said in a Twitter video. "Eyes are burning. Pollution is that bad."

Watch Video:

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Construction was banned temporarily late last week in the world's most polluted capital city, while schools have been closed until Wednesday, with the city government handing out free pollution masks to children.

"I have a headache every day I wake up. It's suffocating to breathe sometimes. And inflammation in the nostrils and all. And eyes also. Like it kind of burns," Ankusha Kushi, a student, told AFP.

As Delhiites woke up on Monday, levels of particulates measuring less than 2.5 microns -- so tiny they enter deep into the respiratory tract,&nbsp;were at 613 micrograms per cubic metre of air, according to the US embassy in Delhi.

Deadly over long term

The World Health Organisation's recommended safe daily maximum is a reading of 25.

In central Delhi, the state air quality institute rated levels of the tiny particulates,&nbsp;which can be deadly over the long term,&nbsp;as "severe".

Bollywood megastar Priyanka Chopra Jonas posted a selfie in pollution mask on Instagram and said it was "hard to shoot" in Delhi.

"I can’t even imagine what it must be like to live here under these conditions. We r blessed with air purifiers and masks. Pray for the homeless," she posted.

Fourteen Indian cities including the capital are among the world's top 15 most polluted cities, according to the World Health Organization.&nbsp;

One study last year said that a million Indians died prematurely every year as a result.

With local elections due in Delhi in early 2020, the crisis has also become a casualty of political bickering, with each side blaming the other.&nbsp;

Kejriwal, who likened Delhi to a "gas chamber" on Friday, said the city had done its part to curb pollution and that the burning of wheat stubble residue on farms outside the capital had to be stopped.

India's supreme court too stepped-in, slamming the authorities for failing to curb pollution and asked them to tighten rules against violators.&nbsp;

Car rule 'a stunt'&nbsp;

But national environment minister Prakash Javadekar accused Kejriwal of politicising the issue, while an MP from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) violated the odd-even car rule as a "symbolic protest" by driving a car that was barred under the scheme.

Experts warned that both state and national governments needed to go beyond short-term remedies.

Stop-gap solutions "can't be a substitute for addressing the major long-term chronic sources of air pollution", Daniel Cass, from global non-profit Vital Strategies, told AFP.

Changing agricultural practices, switching electricity generation sources and accelerating the conversion of home heating from charcoal to natural gas were also key measures in the pollution fight, Cass said.

Siddharth Singh, a climate policy expert, said the traffic restrictions are "ineffective".

"If air pollution was solely due to the vehicular traffic, then this would be a solution. Right now it cannot be a solution because motorised private transport has a very small share in the whole pie," Singh told AFP.

New Delhi banned half the Indian capital's private cars from its roads on Monday as the megacity's 20 million people spluttered with stinging eyes in the worst pollution in three years.

New Delhi banned half the Indian capital's private cars from its roads on Monday as the megacity's 20 million people spluttered with stinging eyes in the worst pollution in three years. As smog levels exceeded those of Beijing by more than three times, authorities also parked a van with an air purifier near the Taj Mahal, the iconic 17th-century marble mausoleum 250 kilometers (150 miles) south of Delhi, in a bid to clean the air in its surrounds. With the pollution causing a rush of respiratory complaints at hospitals and the diversion of 37 flights on Sunday, a new law came into effect restricting cars from the capital's roads to alternative days, depending on if their number plate ends in an odd or even number. More than 600 police teams were deployed at road intersections in the capital with the power to hand out fines of 4,000 rupees (nearly $60) to transgressors Exempt from the restrictions were Delhi's seven million motorbikes and scooters, public transport and cars carrying only women, stoking criticism that the measures were ineffective. "There is smoke everywhere and people, including youngsters, kids, elderly are finding it difficult to breathe," Delhi's chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said in a Twitter video. "Eyes are burning. Pollution is that bad." Watch Video: Construction was banned temporarily late last week in the world's most polluted capital city, while schools have been closed until Wednesday, with the city government handing out free pollution masks to children. "I have a headache every day I wake up. It's suffocating to breathe sometimes. And inflammation in the nostrils and all. And eyes also. Like it kind of burns," Ankusha Kushi, a student, told AFP. As Delhiites woke up on Monday, levels of particulates measuring less than 2.5 microns -- so tiny they enter deep into the respiratory tract, were at 613 micrograms per cubic metre of air, according to the US embassy in Delhi. Deadly over long term The World Health Organisation's recommended safe daily maximum is a reading of 25. In central Delhi, the state air quality institute rated levels of the tiny particulates, which can be deadly over the long term, as "severe". Bollywood megastar Priyanka Chopra Jonas posted a selfie in pollution mask on Instagram and said it was "hard to shoot" in Delhi. "I can’t even imagine what it must be like to live here under these conditions. We r blessed with air purifiers and masks. Pray for the homeless," she posted. Fourteen Indian cities including the capital are among the world's top 15 most polluted cities, according to the World Health Organization. One study last year said that a million Indians died prematurely every year as a result. With local elections due in Delhi in early 2020, the crisis has also become a casualty of political bickering, with each side blaming the other. Kejriwal, who likened Delhi to a "gas chamber" on Friday, said the city had done its part to curb pollution and that the burning of wheat stubble residue on farms outside the capital had to be stopped. India's supreme court too stepped-in, slamming the authorities for failing to curb pollution and asked them to tighten rules against violators. Car rule 'a stunt' But national environment minister Prakash Javadekar accused Kejriwal of politicising the issue, while an MP from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) violated the odd-even car rule as a "symbolic protest" by driving a car that was barred under the scheme. Experts warned that both state and national governments needed to go beyond short-term remedies. Stop-gap solutions "can't be a substitute for addressing the major long-term chronic sources of air pollution", Daniel Cass, from global non-profit Vital Strategies, told AFP. Changing agricultural practices, switching electricity generation sources and accelerating the conversion of home heating from charcoal to natural gas were also key measures in the pollution fight, Cass said. Siddharth Singh, a climate policy expert, said the traffic restrictions are "ineffective". "If air pollution was solely due to the vehicular traffic, then this would be a solution. Right now it cannot be a solution because motorised private transport has a very small share in the whole pie," Singh told AFP.

Taj Mahal gets air purifier as Delhi breathes toxic air

With the national capital facing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-thick-smog-blankets-parts-of-delhi-air-quality-index-crosses-severe-level-259837">severe air pollution</a>, the Supreme Court on Monday asked the Delhi government&nbsp;the "logic" behind the odd-even scheme and ordered it to produce data to prove that the road rationing plan reduces pollution. 
 
The Bench of Justice Arun Mishra and Deepak Gupta took up the issue of air pollution in the capital and other parts of north India. 
 
The apex court ruled that persons found violating the ban on construction and demolition in the Delhi-NCR region will be fined Rs 1 lakh and with Rs 5,000 for burning garbage. It also directed municipal bodies to prevent open dumping of garbage. 
 
"Cars create less pollution. What are you [Delhi]&nbsp;getting from this odd-even? What is the logic behind the odd-even scheme? Banning diesel vehicles we can understand, but what is the point of odd-even scheme," Justice Arun Mishra said. 
 
The bench has sought the data or records from the Delhi Government by Friday to prove that the odd-even scheme has reduced pollution in Delhi, even as autos/taxis and two-wheelers continue to ply on the roads. 
 
The next date of hearing in the case is November 6. 
 
The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-kejriwal-carpools-with-ministerial-colleagues-on-first-day-of-odd-even-259821">odd-even scheme</a>, which entails cars with even last digits to run on even days and with odd last digits to run on odd days of the month, will be in force from November 4 until November 15. 
 
The Bench also directed the Central government and the Delhi Government to take steps with the help of the experts. 
 
"It is not the way we can live. Centre should do [something], states should do [something], it can't go on. This is too much. No room is safe to live in this city, even in homes. We are losing precious years of our lives due to this," it said. 
 
The apex court also summoned chief secretaries of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to appear before it on stubble burning that leads to pollution. 
 
"Delhi is choking every year and we are not able to do anything. Every year, this is happening and this continues for 10-15 days, this does not happen in civilised countries. The right to life is most important. Things are happening every year under our nose. People are being advised to not come to Delhi, or leave Delhi. State governments are responsible," the bench said. 
 
The court said it will monitor the matter related to air pollution. 
 
"People dying in their state and neighbouring states -&nbsp;will not tolerate this. We are making a mockery of everything. This is a gross violation of the fundamental right to life. We will supervise this matter now. Crop stubble burning must stop immediately and all states must do everything to stop it," the Supreme Court said. 
 
Justice Mishra said that gram pradhans, local officials, police who do not control burning should be removed from their posts. 
 
Justice Arun Mishra further remarked that people were not safe inside their own homes and it was unacceptable in a civilised country and asked what measures were being taken by the government. 
 
Describing the situation as 'grim', the apex court also asked the Centre and Delhi government to inform them what they intend to do to reduce the pollution. 
 
"Situation is grim, what you intend to do as Centre and as the Delhi government to reduce this pollution," Supreme Court asked

Speaking on the situation in the national capital, the court stated the situation is....getting repeated every year and it is not tolerable. 
 
Air quality in Delhi other parts of North India dipped to "severe" after Diwali and a thick blanket of smog can be seen in these areas. 
 
In the wake of the current situation, the Environment Pollution (Prevention &amp; Control) Authority has declared a public health emergency.

With the national capital facing severe air pollution, the Supreme Court on Monday asked the Delhi government the "logic" behind the odd-even scheme and ordered it to produce data to prove that the road rationing plan reduces pollution.

With the national capital facing severe air pollution, the Supreme Court on Monday asked the Delhi government the "logic" behind the odd-even scheme and ordered it to produce data to prove that the road rationing plan reduces pollution. The Bench of Justice Arun Mishra and Deepak Gupta took up the issue of air pollution in the capital and other parts of north India. The apex court ruled that persons found violating the ban on construction and demolition in the Delhi-NCR region will be fined Rs 1 lakh and with Rs 5,000 for burning garbage. It also directed municipal bodies to prevent open dumping of garbage. "Cars create less pollution. What are you [Delhi] getting from this odd-even? What is the logic behind the odd-even scheme? Banning diesel vehicles we can understand, but what is the point of odd-even scheme," Justice Arun Mishra said. The bench has sought the data or records from the Delhi Government by Friday to prove that the odd-even scheme has reduced pollution in Delhi, even as autos/taxis and two-wheelers continue to ply on the roads. The next date of hearing in the case is November 6. The odd-even scheme, which entails cars with even last digits to run on even days and with odd last digits to run on odd days of the month, will be in force from November 4 until November 15. The Bench also directed the Central government and the Delhi Government to take steps with the help of the experts. "It is not the way we can live. Centre should do [something], states should do [something], it can't go on. This is too much. No room is safe to live in this city, even in homes. We are losing precious years of our lives due to this," it said. The apex court also summoned chief secretaries of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to appear before it on stubble burning that leads to pollution. "Delhi is choking every year and we are not able to do anything. Every year, this is happening and this continues for 10-15 days, this does not happen in civilised countries. The right to life is most important. Things are happening every year under our nose. People are being advised to not come to Delhi, or leave Delhi. State governments are responsible," the bench said. The court said it will monitor the matter related to air pollution. "People dying in their state and neighbouring states - will not tolerate this. We are making a mockery of everything. This is a gross violation of the fundamental right to life. We will supervise this matter now. Crop stubble burning must stop immediately and all states must do everything to stop it," the Supreme Court said. Justice Mishra said that gram pradhans, local officials, police who do not control burning should be removed from their posts. Justice Arun Mishra further remarked that people were not safe inside their own homes and it was unacceptable in a civilised country and asked what measures were being taken by the government. Describing the situation as 'grim', the apex court also asked the Centre and Delhi government to inform them what they intend to do to reduce the pollution. "Situation is grim, what you intend to do as Centre and as the Delhi government to reduce this pollution," Supreme Court asked Speaking on the situation in the national capital, the court stated the situation is....getting repeated every year and it is not tolerable. Air quality in Delhi other parts of North India dipped to "severe" after Diwali and a thick blanket of smog can be seen in these areas. In the wake of the current situation, the Environment Pollution (Prevention & Control) Authority has declared a public health emergency.

Delhi: Supreme Court questions 'logic' behind odd-even scheme, imposes fine of Rs 1 lakh on violators of construction ban

There is no respite for Delhiites from the hazardous air quality as the Delhi-NCR region was engulfed in a thick blanket of smog on Monday morning.

According to the data provided by System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), major pollutants PM 2.5 and PM 10 were docked at 500.

In the Lodhi Road area, Air Quality Index (PM 2.5) was measured at 703, Delhi University's level was at 695 while in Dhirpur, the number was 676.

Also, in Gurugram, the AQI had crossed the 800 mark.

A layer of smog was seen around ITO as Air Quality Index (AQI) remained at 434 (severe) in ITO, as per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data.

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.

The public has been advised to avoid any outdoor physical activity and people with heart and lung diseases, older adults, and children are advised to remain indoors and avoid any exertion.

To combat the menace of air pollution, the government of Delhi's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cm-kejriwal-urges-citizens-to-follow-rules-as-odd-even-scheme-kicks-in-259765">Odd-Even Scheme</a> has also commenced today. It is scheduled to conclude on November 14.

The scheme will be applicable from 8 am to 8 pm. It will not be effective on Sunday, November 10.

On Sunday, Air pollution levels in the national capital had escalated to<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-smog-bound-capital-chokes-suffers-most-hazardous-air-so-far-this-year-259691"> hazardous </a>and visibility dropped significantly as a thick blanket of smog engulfed several parts of the city despite mild showers in the early morning.

There is no respite for Delhiites from the hazardous air quality as the Delhi-NCR region was engulfed in a thick blanket of smog on Monday morning. According to the data provided by System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), major pollutants PM 2.

There is no respite for Delhiites from the hazardous air quality as the Delhi-NCR region was engulfed in a thick blanket of smog on Monday morning. According to the data provided by System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), major pollutants PM 2.5 and PM 10 were docked at 500. In the Lodhi Road area, Air Quality Index (PM 2.5) was measured at 703, Delhi University's level was at 695 while in Dhirpur, the number was 676. Also, in Gurugram, the AQI had crossed the 800 mark. A layer of smog was seen around ITO as Air Quality Index (AQI) remained at 434 (severe) in ITO, as per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. 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. The public has been advised to avoid any outdoor physical activity and people with heart and lung diseases, older adults, and children are advised to remain indoors and avoid any exertion. To combat the menace of air pollution, the government of Delhi's Odd-Even Scheme has also commenced today. It is scheduled to conclude on November 14. The scheme will be applicable from 8 am to 8 pm. It will not be effective on Sunday, November 10. On Sunday, Air pollution levels in the national capital had escalated to hazardous and visibility dropped significantly as a thick blanket of smog engulfed several parts of the city despite mild showers in the early morning.

Delhi: Thick smog blankets parts of Delhi, Air Quality Index crosses severe level

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday carpooled with his ministerial colleagues Satyendar Jain and Gopal Rai, in an attempt to encourage the practice of sharing vehicles during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cm-kejriwal-urges-citizens-to-follow-rules-as-odd-even-scheme-kicks-in-259765">odd-even period</a>.

AAP leader and labour minister Gopal Rai stated that they will be defeating the menace of pollution through this initiative.

Rai said, "We will defeat pollution same as we defeated Dengue.

BJP leader Vijay Goel making fun of the scheme is equivalent to making fun of Delhi citizen`s right to live".Kejriwal also urged all citizens to use carpooling and follow rules of the car rationing scheme.

"If there were 30 lakh vehicles on Delhi road every day and it will be reduced to 15 lakh now, it naturally will lead to a reduction in pollution", he said.

He also cornered the Central government on the issue.

"Pollution is an issue of the whole of North India and Delhi alone can't do much about it. The central government has to act on it and why do they blame Delhi and its residents about it", Kejriwal stated.

The Delhi Chief Minister also stated that cab aggregator companies have been directed to not to do surge pricing during the period of odd-even.

Commenting on the stand of BJP leader Vijay Goel where he said that he will not follow the provisions of the odd-even scheme, Kejriwal said, "It is not right and very disheartening to see that BJP leaders are doing politics on this issue of odd-even. They should not do it."

Delhi government's odd-even scheme came into force from 8 AM on Monday morning with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal urging all citizens to use carpooling in order to control the deteriorating air quality in the national capital.

A flagship scheme of the Aam Aadmi Party(AAP)-led Delhi Government, the odd-even scheme is a car rationing system aimed at combating pollution, by allowing the cars with odd and even number plates to ply on the roads of the national capital on alternate days.

The scheme which has started from today will go on till November 14 and will be applicable from 8 am to 8 pm. It will not be effective on Sunday, November 10.&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday carpooled with his ministerial colleagues Satyendar Jain and Gopal Rai, in an attempt to encourage the practice of sharing vehicles during the odd-even period.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday carpooled with his ministerial colleagues Satyendar Jain and Gopal Rai, in an attempt to encourage the practice of sharing vehicles during the odd-even period. AAP leader and labour minister Gopal Rai stated that they will be defeating the menace of pollution through this initiative. Rai said, "We will defeat pollution same as we defeated Dengue. BJP leader Vijay Goel making fun of the scheme is equivalent to making fun of Delhi citizen`s right to live".Kejriwal also urged all citizens to use carpooling and follow rules of the car rationing scheme. "If there were 30 lakh vehicles on Delhi road every day and it will be reduced to 15 lakh now, it naturally will lead to a reduction in pollution", he said. He also cornered the Central government on the issue. "Pollution is an issue of the whole of North India and Delhi alone can't do much about it. The central government has to act on it and why do they blame Delhi and its residents about it", Kejriwal stated. The Delhi Chief Minister also stated that cab aggregator companies have been directed to not to do surge pricing during the period of odd-even. Commenting on the stand of BJP leader Vijay Goel where he said that he will not follow the provisions of the odd-even scheme, Kejriwal said, "It is not right and very disheartening to see that BJP leaders are doing politics on this issue of odd-even. They should not do it." Delhi government's odd-even scheme came into force from 8 AM on Monday morning with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal urging all citizens to use carpooling in order to control the deteriorating air quality in the national capital. A flagship scheme of the Aam Aadmi Party(AAP)-led Delhi Government, the odd-even scheme is a car rationing system aimed at combating pollution, by allowing the cars with odd and even number plates to ply on the roads of the national capital on alternate days. The scheme which has started from today will go on till November 14 and will be applicable from 8 am to 8 pm. It will not be effective on Sunday, November 10.

Delhi: Kejriwal carpools with ministerial colleagues on first day of odd-even

Delhi residents woke up to<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-may-receive-rainfall-after-november-6-imd-259507"> mild showers</a> in different parts of the city on early Sunday.

While the cloudy sky and haze prevented the Chhath devotees from getting a glimpse of the rising sun on the final day of the 4-day festival, the mild spell also failed to provide any respite from the '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/thick-smog-continues-to-affect-visibility-in-delhi-air-quality-index-remains-in-severe-259435">severe</a>'&nbsp;level of pollution in parts of the National Capital Region (NCR).

According to the Indian Meteorological Department, there will be a possibility of light rain and thunderstorms throughout the city."Partly cloudy sky with possibility of very light rain or thundershowers. Strong surface winds during the day (speed 15-20 km). The maximum and minimum temperatures would be around 29 and 19 degree Celsius respectively", the weather forecast agency said.

The mild spell has led to a marginal drop in the Air Quality Index (AQI) with readings at different places showing in `severe category`.As of today morning, the AQI reading at Bawana is at 492, ITO crossing is at 487 and Ashok Vihar is at 482, all in the 'Severe'&nbsp;category.

In Ghaziabad, Vasundhara at 486 and Indirapuram at 482 on Air Quality Index. As per Skymet, the Air Quality Index for Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, Faridabad shows severe to hazardous readings with PMs ranging from 400 to 709.

Experts have advised to wear face masks during outdoor exposure and limit outdoor activities to a minimum. Outdoor exercise and ventilation are not recommended.

On Friday, Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority declared a public health emergency as the air quality will have an adverse health impact on all, particularly the children.

The layer of smog and dust particles is due to worsening air quality causes throat irritation and leads to serious health risks.

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 the "severe-plus or emergency" category.

Delhi residents woke up to mild showers in different parts of the city on early Sunday. While the cloudy sky and haze prevented the Chhath devotees from getting a glimpse of the rising sun on the final day of the 4-day festival, the mild spell also failed to provide any respite from the 'severe' level of pollution in parts of the National Capital Region (NCR).

Delhi residents woke up to mild showers in different parts of the city on early Sunday. While the cloudy sky and haze prevented the Chhath devotees from getting a glimpse of the rising sun on the final day of the 4-day festival, the mild spell also failed to provide any respite from the 'severe' level of pollution in parts of the National Capital Region (NCR). According to the Indian Meteorological Department, there will be a possibility of light rain and thunderstorms throughout the city."Partly cloudy sky with possibility of very light rain or thundershowers. Strong surface winds during the day (speed 15-20 km). The maximum and minimum temperatures would be around 29 and 19 degree Celsius respectively", the weather forecast agency said. The mild spell has led to a marginal drop in the Air Quality Index (AQI) with readings at different places showing in `severe category`.As of today morning, the AQI reading at Bawana is at 492, ITO crossing is at 487 and Ashok Vihar is at 482, all in the 'Severe' category. In Ghaziabad, Vasundhara at 486 and Indirapuram at 482 on Air Quality Index. As per Skymet, the Air Quality Index for Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, Faridabad shows severe to hazardous readings with PMs ranging from 400 to 709. Experts have advised to wear face masks during outdoor exposure and limit outdoor activities to a minimum. Outdoor exercise and ventilation are not recommended. On Friday, Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority declared a public health emergency as the air quality will have an adverse health impact on all, particularly the children. The layer of smog and dust particles is due to worsening air quality causes throat irritation and leads to serious health risks. 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 the "severe-plus or emergency" category.

Delhi receives mild showers, no respite from air pollution

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".

Aside from the harm it was doing to the lungs of some 40 million people living in the capital region, the smog was so bad more than 30 flights were diverted from Delhi airport due to poor visibility.

Roads looked deserted as large numbers of people stayed home, rather than expose themselves to the noxious atmosphere outside.

"Pollution has reached unbearable levels across north India," Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi's chief minister said in a message on twitter.

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.

"Wind speed is picking up and it could take 24 to 48 hours before the pollution level reduces to a level of around 500," Mahesh Palawat, vice president of Skymet, a private weather forecasting agency, said.

Anything above 400 on the AQI poses a risk for people with respiratory illness and can also affect even those with healthy lungs.

Doctors were reporting a spike in patients with respiratory related issues, according to Sachin Taparia, head of Local Circles, a Delhi-based private consultancy that conducts surveys on government policies and programmes.

"Delhi has turned into a gas chamber as the pollution levels hit the ‘severe+’ category," Taparia said.

A survey of 17,000 people in the Delhi region by his consultancy found that 40 per cent want to get out of the Delhi region because of the failure to control pollution.

Authorities in Delhi on Friday declared a public health emergency and closed schools and all construction activity.

From Monday, the city government will also restrict the use of private vehicles on the capital's roads under an "odd-even" scheme based on license plates.

"The temporary restrictions on private vehicles will have a negligible impact as we face the most hazardous situation," said Skymet's Palawat.

Kejriwal, and the chief ministers from the neighbouring states of Punjab and Haryana, urged the federal government to do more to combat the pollution.

On Monday, according to a lawyer, the Supreme Court is likely to hear a petition on Monday from the environment agency, looking for ways to make state governments to take tougher action against farmers to curb the stubble-burning. Politicians have been reluctant to upset their farming constituencies.

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.

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.

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". Aside from the harm it was doing to the lungs of some 40 million people living in the capital region, the smog was so bad more than 30 flights were diverted from Delhi airport due to poor visibility. Roads looked deserted as large numbers of people stayed home, rather than expose themselves to the noxious atmosphere outside. "Pollution has reached unbearable levels across north India," Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi's chief minister said in a message on twitter. 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. "Wind speed is picking up and it could take 24 to 48 hours before the pollution level reduces to a level of around 500," Mahesh Palawat, vice president of Skymet, a private weather forecasting agency, said. Anything above 400 on the AQI poses a risk for people with respiratory illness and can also affect even those with healthy lungs. Doctors were reporting a spike in patients with respiratory related issues, according to Sachin Taparia, head of Local Circles, a Delhi-based private consultancy that conducts surveys on government policies and programmes. "Delhi has turned into a gas chamber as the pollution levels hit the ‘severe+’ category," Taparia said. A survey of 17,000 people in the Delhi region by his consultancy found that 40 per cent want to get out of the Delhi region because of the failure to control pollution. Authorities in Delhi on Friday declared a public health emergency and closed schools and all construction activity. From Monday, the city government will also restrict the use of private vehicles on the capital's roads under an "odd-even" scheme based on license plates. "The temporary restrictions on private vehicles will have a negligible impact as we face the most hazardous situation," said Skymet's Palawat. Kejriwal, and the chief ministers from the neighbouring states of Punjab and Haryana, urged the federal government to do more to combat the pollution. On Monday, according to a lawyer, the Supreme Court is likely to hear a petition on Monday from the environment agency, looking for ways to make state governments to take tougher action against farmers to curb the stubble-burning. Politicians have been reluctant to upset their farming constituencies. 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.

India's smog-bound capital chokes, suffers most hazardous air so far this year

Air pollution levels in the national capital escalated to hazardous and visibility dropped significantly as a thick blanket of smog engulfed several parts of the city on Sunday morning.

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 "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/thick-smog-continues-to-affect-visibility-in-delhi-air-quality-index-remains-in-severe-259435">severe</a>".

Above 500 is the "severe-plus emergency" category. In Dhirpur, the AQI was 509, while in Delhi University area it was 591. In Delhi's famous Chandni Chowk area, the AQI was recorded at 432 while in Lodhi road it was 537.

Apart from the capital, Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad and Noida are also reeling under the wave of severe air pollution. In both places, the AQI has crossed the mark of 600.

People residing in these areas complained of eye irritation and suffocation due to deteriorating air quality."We are athletes and have most of the events in the winter seasons.

This thick smog is affecting our health making it difficult to breathe in the poisonous air. The government must do something about it," Prashant Shukla, a local from Ghaziabad, told ANI.

Another local from Ghaziabad, Mukul Sharma, also narrated his ordeal and said, "I am coughing too much these days. I do not know how to safeguard myself from increasing air pollution. The government must tighten the noose around stubble burning."Also, in the Gautam Budh Nagar area, the Noida Authority conducted checking at various construction sites and arrested 27 people for flouting the construction ban.

"The construction is banned in Noida from November 1 to 5. We have conducted checking at sector 75, 35 and 72. We have arrested 27 people for flouting the ban. We will continue to conduct checks at construction sites," said an official from Noida Authority.

To combat the menace of air pollution, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP government in Delhi has announced the implementation of the Odd-Even scheme from November 4 to 15, 2019.

He has repeatedly said that the smog from the nearby states caused by the burning of crop residue is the major cause of pollution in the region.&nbsp;

Air pollution levels in the national capital escalated to hazardous and visibility dropped significantly as a thick blanket of smog engulfed several parts of the city on Sunday morning.

Air pollution levels in the national capital escalated to hazardous and visibility dropped significantly as a thick blanket of smog engulfed several parts of the city on Sunday morning. 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 the "severe-plus emergency" category. In Dhirpur, the AQI was 509, while in Delhi University area it was 591. In Delhi's famous Chandni Chowk area, the AQI was recorded at 432 while in Lodhi road it was 537. Apart from the capital, Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad and Noida are also reeling under the wave of severe air pollution. In both places, the AQI has crossed the mark of 600. People residing in these areas complained of eye irritation and suffocation due to deteriorating air quality."We are athletes and have most of the events in the winter seasons. This thick smog is affecting our health making it difficult to breathe in the poisonous air. The government must do something about it," Prashant Shukla, a local from Ghaziabad, told ANI. Another local from Ghaziabad, Mukul Sharma, also narrated his ordeal and said, "I am coughing too much these days. I do not know how to safeguard myself from increasing air pollution. The government must tighten the noose around stubble burning."Also, in the Gautam Budh Nagar area, the Noida Authority conducted checking at various construction sites and arrested 27 people for flouting the construction ban. "The construction is banned in Noida from November 1 to 5. We have conducted checking at sector 75, 35 and 72. We have arrested 27 people for flouting the ban. We will continue to conduct checks at construction sites," said an official from Noida Authority. To combat the menace of air pollution, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP government in Delhi has announced the implementation of the Odd-Even scheme from November 4 to 15, 2019. He has repeatedly said that the smog from the nearby states caused by the burning of crop residue is the major cause of pollution in the region.

Delhi-NCR chokes on smog, visibility drops significantly as AQI crosses 600

By Mallika Singh 
 
As Delhi’s Air Quality Index recently dropped from ‘Severe Plus’ to ‘Hazardous’ and touched 450 points on Saturday, leaders across the country have politicised the issue, leading to the declaration of a 'public health emergency'.

Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi Manish Sisodia on Saturday tweeted that stubble burning in the regions of Punjab and Haryana contributed to 46 per cent of the pollution in Delhi. He further asked the Central Government what they were doing to save North India and to curb stubble burning.

On Friday, the Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal blamed the governments of neighbouring states Haryana and Punjab for the increasing levels of pollution in Delhi. He accused them of forcing the farmers to burn their produce.

Union Environment and Climate Change Minister Prakash Javadekar criticised Kejriwal’s remarks and said that he was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/javadekar-urges-kejriwal-to-find-solutions-to-mitigate-pollution-and-stop-blame-game-259508">“indulging in a blame game”</a>. Javadekar urged him to tackle the problem while stating that the Delhi government did not pay its share in the construction of the Eastern Peripheral Highway which has helped bring down pollution in the city.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It is unfortunate that Delhi CM <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArvindKejriwal</a> is politicising the issue of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AirPollution?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AirPollution</a> &amp; instigating students to write a letter to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Haryana?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Haryana</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Punjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Punjab</a> CMs to show them in bad light and present them as villains.<a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4Delhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4Delhi</a> <a href="https://t.co/UXiwg3h3NQ">pic.twitter.com/UXiwg3h3NQ</a>
— Prakash Javadekar (@PrakashJavdekar) <a href="https://twitter.com/PrakashJavdekar/status/1190527132197253120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Saturday wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging him to establish a “consensus without further delay'' to stop pollution.&nbsp;

<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/india-news/in-view-of-pollution-open-activities-to-be-restricted-in-haryana-schools-dushyant-chautala-259547">Haryana</a> Deputy Chief Minister Dushyant Chautala urged the leaders to rise above politics and to take a collective stand to combat the situation “once and for all”. Additionally, he asked the Central Government to take the lead.

Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor on Saturday tweeted a picture mocking Delhi Tourism quoting ‘Delhi is injurious to health’, for which he faced backlash.

The Delhi government on Friday declared that all schools would be shut till November 5. He added that 50 lakh masks will be distributed among the students.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court is set to consider a report on Monday drafted by the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPPCA)&nbsp;related to the health emergency.

Additionally, a bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra will hear a plea on Monday regarding the pollution caused in the city due to stubble burning in the neighbouring states.&nbsp;

The EPPCA, besides declaring a state of public health emergency in Delhi NCR has also imposed a ban on all construction activities till November 5.&nbsp;

According to the Indian Meteorological Department, Delhi is expected to receive <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/delhi-may-receive-rainfall-after-november-6-imd-259507">rainfall after November 6</a> due to an increase in wind speed, which might help bring down the pollution.

By Mallika Singh As Delhi’s Air Quality Index recently dropped from ‘Severe Plus’ to ‘Hazardous’ and touched 450 points on Saturday, leaders across the country have politicised the issue, leading to the declaration of a 'public health emergency'.

By Mallika Singh As Delhi’s Air Quality Index recently dropped from ‘Severe Plus’ to ‘Hazardous’ and touched 450 points on Saturday, leaders across the country have politicised the issue, leading to the declaration of a 'public health emergency'. Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi Manish Sisodia on Saturday tweeted that stubble burning in the regions of Punjab and Haryana contributed to 46 per cent of the pollution in Delhi. He further asked the Central Government what they were doing to save North India and to curb stubble burning. On Friday, the Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal blamed the governments of neighbouring states Haryana and Punjab for the increasing levels of pollution in Delhi. He accused them of forcing the farmers to burn their produce. Union Environment and Climate Change Minister Prakash Javadekar criticised Kejriwal’s remarks and said that he was “indulging in a blame game”. Javadekar urged him to tackle the problem while stating that the Delhi government did not pay its share in the construction of the Eastern Peripheral Highway which has helped bring down pollution in the city. It is unfortunate that Delhi CM @ArvindKejriwal is politicising the issue of #AirPollution & instigating students to write a letter to #Haryana & #Punjab CMs to show them in bad light and present them as villains.@BJP4India @BJP4Delhi pic.twitter.com/UXiwg3h3NQ — Prakash Javadekar (@PrakashJavdekar) November 2, 2019 × Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Saturday wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging him to establish a “consensus without further delay'' to stop pollution. Haryana Deputy Chief Minister Dushyant Chautala urged the leaders to rise above politics and to take a collective stand to combat the situation “once and for all”. Additionally, he asked the Central Government to take the lead. Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor on Saturday tweeted a picture mocking Delhi Tourism quoting ‘Delhi is injurious to health’, for which he faced backlash. The Delhi government on Friday declared that all schools would be shut till November 5. He added that 50 lakh masks will be distributed among the students. The Supreme Court is set to consider a report on Monday drafted by the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPPCA) related to the health emergency. Additionally, a bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra will hear a plea on Monday regarding the pollution caused in the city due to stubble burning in the neighbouring states. The EPPCA, besides declaring a state of public health emergency in Delhi NCR has also imposed a ban on all construction activities till November 5. According to the Indian Meteorological Department, Delhi is expected to receive rainfall after November 6 due to an increase in wind speed, which might help bring down the pollution.

Political blame game over Delhi pollution

Union Environment and Climate Change Minister Prakash Javadekar on Saturday urged Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to take measures to tackle air pollution in national capital instead of indulging in 'blame-game'.

Addressing media persons after an event here, Javadekar said, "I think it is unfortunate that a Chief Minister, instead of finding solutions to mitigate pollution is into a blame game."

"Instead of spending Rs 1500 crores on advertisements, if Delhi government spends the money to buy machines for disposing off crop stubble for farmers of Punjab and Haryana, it will be more beneficial," said Javadekar.

Stating that the geophysical conditions surrounding the national capital play a role in increasing air pollution, the Union Minister appealed to Delhi, Punjab and Haryana governments to work together in order to tackle the menace.

Holding stubble burning in the neighbouring states responsible for rising air pollution in the national capital, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday asked Punjab, Haryana and Central governments to give specific deadlines, by when they will put stop on stubble burning.

The air quality in the national capital and its adjoining regions on Saturday continued to remain in the 'hazardous category'&nbsp;with the pollution level hovering near 400.

Due to the prevailing weather condition, the Arvind Kejriwal government in Delhi has announced to shut the schools till November 5 and has also banned all construction activities. The government has declared a "public health emergency".&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Union Environment and Climate Change Minister Prakash Javadekar on Saturday urged Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to take measures to tackle air pollution in national capital instead of indulging in 'blame-game'.

Union Environment and Climate Change Minister Prakash Javadekar on Saturday urged Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to take measures to tackle air pollution in national capital instead of indulging in 'blame-game'. Addressing media persons after an event here, Javadekar said, "I think it is unfortunate that a Chief Minister, instead of finding solutions to mitigate pollution is into a blame game." "Instead of spending Rs 1500 crores on advertisements, if Delhi government spends the money to buy machines for disposing off crop stubble for farmers of Punjab and Haryana, it will be more beneficial," said Javadekar. Stating that the geophysical conditions surrounding the national capital play a role in increasing air pollution, the Union Minister appealed to Delhi, Punjab and Haryana governments to work together in order to tackle the menace. Holding stubble burning in the neighbouring states responsible for rising air pollution in the national capital, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday asked Punjab, Haryana and Central governments to give specific deadlines, by when they will put stop on stubble burning. The air quality in the national capital and its adjoining regions on Saturday continued to remain in the 'hazardous category' with the pollution level hovering near 400. Due to the prevailing weather condition, the Arvind Kejriwal government in Delhi has announced to shut the schools till November 5 and has also banned all construction activities. The government has declared a "public health emergency".

Javadekar urges Kejriwal to find solutions to mitigate pollution and stop 'blame-game'

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday said that national capital may receive rainfall after November 6 due to the increase in the wind speed in the region, bringing some relief from the hazardous air quality.

"Presently, there is the negligible wind in Delhi. There is a possibility of an increase in wind speed from today. Wind direction will change after November 6 and rainfall may also occur. There will be a relief once it happens," said KV Singh, IMD official.

The air quality in the national capital and its adjoining regions continued to remain in the 'hazardous category'&nbsp;with the pollution level hovering near 400 today.

Notably, because of the thick blanket of smog in the morning, scores commuters faced difficulty reaching their office on time as the visibility was affected causing slow movement of traffic at the major junctions.

Due to the prevailing weather condition, the Arvind Kejriwal government in Delhi has announced to shut the schools till November 5 and has also banned all construction activities.

The government has declared a "public health emergency".&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday said that national capital may receive rainfall after November 6 due to the increase in the wind speed in the region, bringing some relief from the hazardous air quality.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday said that national capital may receive rainfall after November 6 due to the increase in the wind speed in the region, bringing some relief from the hazardous air quality. "Presently, there is the negligible wind in Delhi. There is a possibility of an increase in wind speed from today. Wind direction will change after November 6 and rainfall may also occur. There will be a relief once it happens," said KV Singh, IMD official. The air quality in the national capital and its adjoining regions continued to remain in the 'hazardous category' with the pollution level hovering near 400 today. Notably, because of the thick blanket of smog in the morning, scores commuters faced difficulty reaching their office on time as the visibility was affected causing slow movement of traffic at the major junctions. Due to the prevailing weather condition, the Arvind Kejriwal government in Delhi has announced to shut the schools till November 5 and has also banned all construction activities. The government has declared a "public health emergency".

Delhi may receive rainfall after November 6: IMD

The residents of the National Capital Region seem to be getting no respite from the worsening air quality after Diwali. As per the air quality index on Wednesday at Delhi's Lodhi Road area, the major pollutants PM 2.5 was measured at 500 (severe category) while PM 10 was recorded at 379 (very poor category).&nbsp;

Delhi's overall air quality on average was at around 392 this morning under 'very poor' category. Chandni Chowk recorded the highest PM 10 at 673 today with 'severe' category pollution.&nbsp;

Noida's air quality was at 535 at the AQI index (severe) while Gurugram was 'very poor' at 384. &nbsp;

Delhi government, on Tuesday, blamed stubble-burning activities in Delhi's adjoining areas for the dip in the air quality in the national capital.&nbsp;

The Delhi government on Tuesday said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nasa-images-show-increase-in-stubble-burning-in-last-24-hours-in-punjab-haryana-delhi-government-258717">latest images from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration</a> (NASA) show a drastic increase in the stubble burning in the last 24 hours in Haryana and Punjab, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

A statement from the office of Delhi's Environment Minister Kailash Gahlot said, "Latest NASA images show a drastic increase in stubble burning in the last 24 hours. Stubble burning counts have increased from 1,654 to 2,577 in Punjab/Haryana in the last 24 hours."

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a>: Major pollutants PM 2.5 at 500 (severe) and PM 10 at 379 (very poor), in Lodhi Road area, according to the Air Quality Index (AQI) data. <a href="https://t.co/4YCJOnCvoD">pic.twitter.com/4YCJOnCvoD</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1189352506373132288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The statement said that wind direction shows stubble plume could increase from Punjab and Haryana, and Delhi facing adverse air quality despite the cleanest Diwali night in the last many years, ANI reported.&nbsp;

"The latest NASA images show a drastic spurt in crop residue burnings (stubble burnings) in the neighbouring states of Delhi, which has severely affected Delhi's air quality.

The stubble plume from north-west regions has become one of the significant factors in adversely affecting Delhi's air quality," the statement read.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday took to Twitter and urged governments of Punjab and Haryana to take concrete steps to avoid Delhi from turning into a gas chamber.&nbsp;

"On behalf of Delhi residents, I appeal to the governments of Punjab Haryana to join hands and take some concrete steps immediately and save Delhi from becoming a gas chamber. At our level, we are making every possible effort and will continue to do so," his tweet read.&nbsp;

The pollution in the national capital and its nearby areas such as Noida, Gurugram, Faridabad and Ghaziabad remained in the 'very poor' category on Tuesday with the Air Quality Index (AQI) docking at 392, said Center-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).&nbsp;

Experts suggest there are little chances of smog lifting up in the next couple of days.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

The residents of the National Capital Region seem to be getting no respite from the worsening air quality after Diwali. As per the air quality index on Wednesday at Delhi's Lodhi Road area, the major pollutants PM 2.

The residents of the National Capital Region seem to be getting no respite from the worsening air quality after Diwali. As per the air quality index on Wednesday at Delhi's Lodhi Road area, the major pollutants PM 2.5 was measured at 500 (severe category) while PM 10 was recorded at 379 (very poor category). Delhi's overall air quality on average was at around 392 this morning under 'very poor' category. Chandni Chowk recorded the highest PM 10 at 673 today with 'severe' category pollution. Noida's air quality was at 535 at the AQI index (severe) while Gurugram was 'very poor' at 384. Delhi government, on Tuesday, blamed stubble-burning activities in Delhi's adjoining areas for the dip in the air quality in the national capital. The Delhi government on Tuesday said that the latest images from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) show a drastic increase in the stubble burning in the last 24 hours in Haryana and Punjab, news agency ANI reported. A statement from the office of Delhi's Environment Minister Kailash Gahlot said, "Latest NASA images show a drastic increase in stubble burning in the last 24 hours. Stubble burning counts have increased from 1,654 to 2,577 in Punjab/Haryana in the last 24 hours." #Delhi: Major pollutants PM 2.5 at 500 (severe) and PM 10 at 379 (very poor), in Lodhi Road area, according to the Air Quality Index (AQI) data. pic.twitter.com/4YCJOnCvoD — ANI (@ANI) October 30, 2019 × The statement said that wind direction shows stubble plume could increase from Punjab and Haryana, and Delhi facing adverse air quality despite the cleanest Diwali night in the last many years, ANI reported. "The latest NASA images show a drastic spurt in crop residue burnings (stubble burnings) in the neighbouring states of Delhi, which has severely affected Delhi's air quality. The stubble plume from north-west regions has become one of the significant factors in adversely affecting Delhi's air quality," the statement read. Meanwhile, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday took to Twitter and urged governments of Punjab and Haryana to take concrete steps to avoid Delhi from turning into a gas chamber. "On behalf of Delhi residents, I appeal to the governments of Punjab Haryana to join hands and take some concrete steps immediately and save Delhi from becoming a gas chamber. At our level, we are making every possible effort and will continue to do so," his tweet read. The pollution in the national capital and its nearby areas such as Noida, Gurugram, Faridabad and Ghaziabad remained in the 'very poor' category on Tuesday with the Air Quality Index (AQI) docking at 392, said Center-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). Experts suggest there are little chances of smog lifting up in the next couple of days. (With inputs from ANI)

'Save Delhi from becoming gas chamber,' Kejriwal urges neighbouring governments to take concrete steps

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday arrived in Delhi, after concluding his two-day visit to Saudi Arabia where he delivered the keynote address of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) and held talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Saudi Arabia.

During the visit, Modi held talks with Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud and condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and appreciated the close cooperation on security matters between the two countries.

A total of 12 agreements and MoUs were signed between the two countries in key sectors including defence industries collaboration, renewable energy, security cooperation and civil aviation.

Modi held "fruitful discussions" with the Crown Prince on "adding greater dynamism and depth to the bilateral strategic partnership", according to MEA.

At the FII Forum, also dubbed as the 'Davos in the Desert', the Prime Minister spoke about the goal of achieving $5 trillion dollar economy and highlighted several initiatives taken by his government to make India more business-friendly to investors.

The FII has been hosted by Riyadh since 2017 to project the Kingdom as a potential investment hub in the region.

He also spoke about regional and global issues and said that his country aims to invest $100 billion in refining, pipelines and gas terminals by 2024.

The Prime Minister held talks with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud, Labour and Social Development Minister Ahmad bin Sulaiman Alrajhi and Environment and Agriculture Minister Abdulrahman bin Abdulmohsen Al Fadley.

Modi's visit to Saudi Arabia came amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following New Delhi's decision in August to revoke Article 370 of the Constitution that granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Islamabad has unilaterally downgraded bilateral ties and has been attempting to internationalise the Kashmir issue but to no avail.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday arrived in Delhi, after concluding his two-day visit to Saudi Arabia where he delivered the keynote address of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) and held talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Saudi Arabia.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday arrived in Delhi, after concluding his two-day visit to Saudi Arabia where he delivered the keynote address of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) and held talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Saudi Arabia. During the visit, Modi held talks with Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud and condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and appreciated the close cooperation on security matters between the two countries. A total of 12 agreements and MoUs were signed between the two countries in key sectors including defence industries collaboration, renewable energy, security cooperation and civil aviation. Modi held "fruitful discussions" with the Crown Prince on "adding greater dynamism and depth to the bilateral strategic partnership", according to MEA. At the FII Forum, also dubbed as the 'Davos in the Desert', the Prime Minister spoke about the goal of achieving $5 trillion dollar economy and highlighted several initiatives taken by his government to make India more business-friendly to investors. The FII has been hosted by Riyadh since 2017 to project the Kingdom as a potential investment hub in the region. He also spoke about regional and global issues and said that his country aims to invest $100 billion in refining, pipelines and gas terminals by 2024. The Prime Minister held talks with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud, Labour and Social Development Minister Ahmad bin Sulaiman Alrajhi and Environment and Agriculture Minister Abdulrahman bin Abdulmohsen Al Fadley. Modi's visit to Saudi Arabia came amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following New Delhi's decision in August to revoke Article 370 of the Constitution that granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Islamabad has unilaterally downgraded bilateral ties and has been attempting to internationalise the Kashmir issue but to no avail.

PM Modi arrives in Delhi after concluding 2-day visit to Saudi Arabia

Delhites should be more concerned about pollution levels rather than hosting a cricket match, said Gautam Gambir on Wednesday as smog enveloped the national capital region.

"It is a far serious issue than having a game of cricket or any other sports matches happens in Delhi. For us I think people living in Delhi should be more concerned about the pollution levels rather than the cricket match that happens," Gambhir said.

"Not only athletes it's also for the common man of Delhi as well. A match is a very small thing, I think we can say ok whether we want to shift the match or not," he added.

The first T20I between India and Bangladesh is scheduled to be played at Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on November 3 despite the alarming air pollution level.

"That is a very small thing, ultimately its the entire Delhi which is suffering, from kids to old age people as well, so it's our responsibility. I got to know that pollution is still better but a lot of credit goes to the people of Delhi but hard work still needs to made by Delhites," the cricketer-turned-politician said.

"So, I am not bothered whether the match will happen or not. I hope it happens and it should happen, but again it's the thing which is throughout the year that Delhi people face. It is far more concerning then match," he added.

When asked about what Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) should plan when it comes to deciding match venue, Gambhir said: "Probably yes, you want to play in an environment which is suitable for everyone and players as well. If the pollution levels are high then obviously you can think of having an alternate venue but for me, as I just maintained and what I have just said."

Gambhir further added that Delhi pollution level is better than the past six years on Diwali and credit needs to be given to Delhites.

"It's been better since last 6 years and probably this is the least level of pollution we have after Diwali. I think credit needs to go to the people of Delhi but still lot of efforts needs to be made." Gambhir said.

"The Delhi government is claiming that they have done a lot of work but ultimately its people of Delhi who had that awareness not to burn crackers but a lot of efforts have to be done rather than all this gimmick of advertisement and taking credit of what people of Delhi have done," he added.

Gambhir also added that the government should create awareness for curbing the high air pollution level.

"I think we should still try and create as much awareness as we can and get the pollution levels down because it's still in a very poor category so I feel a lot of efforts needs to be made," Gambhir said.

When asked about what steps should be taken to prevent pollution Gautam said: "Absolutely serious steps should be taken. For me, the most important steps are not advertising on Twitter and not taking credit but what we do on the ground level as well. I don't remember what the Delhi government has done in the last four and a half years."

"I feel the central government is very serious in getting the pollution level down plus stubble burning needs to be curbed as well. So, I think the central government is doing all the best what they can to curb down the pollution level but I think and feel Delhi government still needs to pull up their socks," he added.

Delhites should be more concerned about pollution levels rather than hosting a cricket match, said Gautam Gambir on Wednesday as smog enveloped the national capital region.

Delhites should be more concerned about pollution levels rather than hosting a cricket match, said Gautam Gambir on Wednesday as smog enveloped the national capital region. "It is a far serious issue than having a game of cricket or any other sports matches happens in Delhi. For us I think people living in Delhi should be more concerned about the pollution levels rather than the cricket match that happens," Gambhir said. "Not only athletes it's also for the common man of Delhi as well. A match is a very small thing, I think we can say ok whether we want to shift the match or not," he added. The first T20I between India and Bangladesh is scheduled to be played at Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on November 3 despite the alarming air pollution level. "That is a very small thing, ultimately its the entire Delhi which is suffering, from kids to old age people as well, so it's our responsibility. I got to know that pollution is still better but a lot of credit goes to the people of Delhi but hard work still needs to made by Delhites," the cricketer-turned-politician said. "So, I am not bothered whether the match will happen or not. I hope it happens and it should happen, but again it's the thing which is throughout the year that Delhi people face. It is far more concerning then match," he added. When asked about what Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) should plan when it comes to deciding match venue, Gambhir said: "Probably yes, you want to play in an environment which is suitable for everyone and players as well. If the pollution levels are high then obviously you can think of having an alternate venue but for me, as I just maintained and what I have just said." Gambhir further added that Delhi pollution level is better than the past six years on Diwali and credit needs to be given to Delhites. "It's been better since last 6 years and probably this is the least level of pollution we have after Diwali. I think credit needs to go to the people of Delhi but still lot of efforts needs to be made." Gambhir said. "The Delhi government is claiming that they have done a lot of work but ultimately its people of Delhi who had that awareness not to burn crackers but a lot of efforts have to be done rather than all this gimmick of advertisement and taking credit of what people of Delhi have done," he added. Gambhir also added that the government should create awareness for curbing the high air pollution level. "I think we should still try and create as much awareness as we can and get the pollution levels down because it's still in a very poor category so I feel a lot of efforts needs to be made," Gambhir said. When asked about what steps should be taken to prevent pollution Gautam said: "Absolutely serious steps should be taken. For me, the most important steps are not advertising on Twitter and not taking credit but what we do on the ground level as well. I don't remember what the Delhi government has done in the last four and a half years." "I feel the central government is very serious in getting the pollution level down plus stubble burning needs to be curbed as well. So, I think the central government is doing all the best what they can to curb down the pollution level but I think and feel Delhi government still needs to pull up their socks," he added.

Pollution far serious issue than hosting cricket match: Gautam Gambhir

Delhi and Noida were left reeling under 'very poor' pollution levels after Diwali celebrations which saw people bursting crackers to mark the occasion.

The overall air quality index stood at 306 and 356 in Delhi and Noida respectively.

Extremely poor pollution levels were previously predicted in Delhi due to firecracker emissions, unfavourable weather and a significant spike in stubble burning in neighbouring states.

As Haryana too witnessed bursting of crackers on Diwali, its AQI stood at 279 (poor) at NISE Gwal Pahari area in Gurugram.

On Saturday, the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-chokes-again-day-ahead-of-diwali-likely-to-worsen-tomorrow-258250">(SAFAR) had predicted</a> that the air quality will get even worse in coming days and the AQI was expected to be around 324 due to Diwali.

In the wake of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-quality-remains-poor-on-diwali-in-new-delhi-258353">increased pollution</a>, Delhi residents have complained of a spike in respiratory problems and allergies.

Stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana makes the situation in Delhi worse. According to Punjab Remote Sensing Centre (PRSC), straw burning has increased this year.

To curb air pollution, the Arvind Kejriwal-led government in Delhi has announced the implementation of the Odd-Even scheme from November 4 to 15.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Delhi and Noida were left reeling under 'very poor' pollution levels after Diwali celebrations which saw people bursting crackers to mark the occasion. The overall air quality index stood at 306 and 356 in Delhi and Noida respectively.

Delhi and Noida were left reeling under 'very poor' pollution levels after Diwali celebrations which saw people bursting crackers to mark the occasion. The overall air quality index stood at 306 and 356 in Delhi and Noida respectively. Extremely poor pollution levels were previously predicted in Delhi due to firecracker emissions, unfavourable weather and a significant spike in stubble burning in neighbouring states. As Haryana too witnessed bursting of crackers on Diwali, its AQI stood at 279 (poor) at NISE Gwal Pahari area in Gurugram. On Saturday, the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) had predicted that the air quality will get even worse in coming days and the AQI was expected to be around 324 due to Diwali. In the wake of the increased pollution, Delhi residents have complained of a spike in respiratory problems and allergies. Stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana makes the situation in Delhi worse. According to Punjab Remote Sensing Centre (PRSC), straw burning has increased this year. To curb air pollution, the Arvind Kejriwal-led government in Delhi has announced the implementation of the Odd-Even scheme from November 4 to 15.

Air quality level in Delhi 'very poor' post-Diwali

Ahead of her official visit to India, German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday expressed happiness over her scheduled meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the upcoming fifth biennial Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC) in New Delhi.

She informed that the focus of the talks between the two sides would be on economic and trade relations, climate protection, and sustainable development, among&nbsp;other areas.

As per an unofficial translation of Merkel`s statement tweeted by the Indian Embassy in Germany, the discussions between the two sides would also touch upon foreign and security policy issues, as well as how the two countries could work together towards climate protection and sustainable development.

"It is my fourth visit to India and I am happy to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and to discuss with him about our bilateral relations. IGCs give us the opportunity to talk about the whole breadth of the future of our relationship. This time, the focus will be economic and trade relations, innovation and digitalisation, and climate protection and sustainable development," the statement read.

"Additionally, we will talk about how we can work towards climate protection and sustainable development in our relationship. We will also discuss foreign and security policy issues -- that means that our discussion will cover a large spectrum," it added.

The discussions will also touch upon renewable energy, smart cities, and new forms of mobility, Merkel further said.

The German Chancellor added that she is impressed by the "developmental dynamic of India" and how the country has rapidly developed over the past few years.

"All of us know that India has great potential. Therefore it is important that we, as Germans, the largest trade partner of India in the EU (European Union), work further for the strengthening of our relationship and learn from India and also are able to use our technological development in India."

"That would be a win-win situation for both countries," Merkel concluded.

Merkel will visit India on November 1 at the invitation of PM Modi. She will be accompanied by several ministers and state secretaries of the federal government, as well as a high-powered business delegation, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in an official statement.

"Under the IGC format, the counterpart ministers from both countries will hold initial discussions in their respective areas of responsibility. The outcome of these discussions will be reported on at the IGC co-chaired by the Prime Minister and the Federal Chancellor of Germany," the MEA statement said.

During the IGC, the two sides will discuss the deepening of cooperation in traditional sectors such as transport, skill development, and energy, and explore possibilities for cooperation in newer areas like green urban mobility and Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Modi and Merkel will also exchange views on regional and global matters of mutual interest. Both leaders will have a separate engagement with CEOs and business leaders of both countries, the statement said.

The German Chancellor is also expected to meet President Ram Nath Kovind.

"India and Germany have established a strategic partnership that is characterised by a high degree of trust and mutual understanding. The two leaders have regularly interacted on the sidelines of multilateral meetings. Germany is a leading trade and investment partner," the statement read.

Last month, Merkel had met Modi on the sidelines of the 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The two leaders held wide-ranging dialogues on several issues. In April last year, Modi made a brief stopover in Berlin and met Merkel after his visit to Sweden and Britain. 
&nbsp;

Ahead of her official visit to India, German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday expressed happiness over her scheduled meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the upcoming fifth biennial Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC) in New Delhi.

Ahead of her official visit to India, German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday expressed happiness over her scheduled meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the upcoming fifth biennial Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC) in New Delhi. She informed that the focus of the talks between the two sides would be on economic and trade relations, climate protection, and sustainable development, among other areas. As per an unofficial translation of Merkel`s statement tweeted by the Indian Embassy in Germany, the discussions between the two sides would also touch upon foreign and security policy issues, as well as how the two countries could work together towards climate protection and sustainable development. "It is my fourth visit to India and I am happy to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and to discuss with him about our bilateral relations. IGCs give us the opportunity to talk about the whole breadth of the future of our relationship. This time, the focus will be economic and trade relations, innovation and digitalisation, and climate protection and sustainable development," the statement read. "Additionally, we will talk about how we can work towards climate protection and sustainable development in our relationship. We will also discuss foreign and security policy issues -- that means that our discussion will cover a large spectrum," it added. The discussions will also touch upon renewable energy, smart cities, and new forms of mobility, Merkel further said. The German Chancellor added that she is impressed by the "developmental dynamic of India" and how the country has rapidly developed over the past few years. "All of us know that India has great potential. Therefore it is important that we, as Germans, the largest trade partner of India in the EU (European Union), work further for the strengthening of our relationship and learn from India and also are able to use our technological development in India." "That would be a win-win situation for both countries," Merkel concluded. Merkel will visit India on November 1 at the invitation of PM Modi. She will be accompanied by several ministers and state secretaries of the federal government, as well as a high-powered business delegation, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in an official statement. "Under the IGC format, the counterpart ministers from both countries will hold initial discussions in their respective areas of responsibility. The outcome of these discussions will be reported on at the IGC co-chaired by the Prime Minister and the Federal Chancellor of Germany," the MEA statement said. During the IGC, the two sides will discuss the deepening of cooperation in traditional sectors such as transport, skill development, and energy, and explore possibilities for cooperation in newer areas like green urban mobility and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Modi and Merkel will also exchange views on regional and global matters of mutual interest. Both leaders will have a separate engagement with CEOs and business leaders of both countries, the statement said. The German Chancellor is also expected to meet President Ram Nath Kovind. "India and Germany have established a strategic partnership that is characterised by a high degree of trust and mutual understanding. The two leaders have regularly interacted on the sidelines of multilateral meetings. Germany is a leading trade and investment partner," the statement read. Last month, Merkel had met Modi on the sidelines of the 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The two leaders held wide-ranging dialogues on several issues. In April last year, Modi made a brief stopover in Berlin and met Merkel after his visit to Sweden and Britain.

India, Germany to focus on trade, economic relations at IGC: Merkel ahead of Delhi visit

Just a day ahead of Diwali, Delhi's air quality dropped to season's worst on Saturday, due to decrease speed of the wind affecting the dispersion of dust particles.

"The decrease in wind speed has started to negatively influence Delhi's air quality by drastically decreasing ventilation coefficients and thereby affecting dispersion," said the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

At 10 am today, the overall air quality of Delhi was docking at 305, said SAFAR. The organisation had predicted that tomorrow, the air quality will get even worse from today.

The AQI is expected to be around 324. 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 increasing menace of air pollution in Delhi has erupted a political slugfest with allegation and counter allegation levelling across party lines.

On Saturday, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Vijay Goel slammed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for not taking requisite measures to combat the pollution.

Speaking to ANI, the former union minister said, " Pollution has increased in Delhi. In the last five years, Arvind Kejriwal has done nothing to reduce air pollution in the national capital. It was only the Centre who has taken steps like constructing bridges, highways and widened roads for traffic management and decongestion."

He also slammed the Delhi government for re-introducing the Odd-Even scheme in Delhi in saying, "They have introduced this scheme just to be in the news. Their (AAP government) is to be in the advertisements. Odd-Even will again cause a problem for the people."

To combat the menace of air pollution, the Arvind Kejriwal-led government in Delhi has announced the implementation of the Odd-Even scheme from November 4 to 15, 2019, stating that the smog from the nearby states due to the burning of crop residue is the major cause of pollution in the region.

On a closer look, farmers residing in Haryana and Punjab usually burn the crop residue after harvesting paddy in the autumn season in order to clear the fields for summer harvest. Smoke from these two states travels to the national capital each year, leading to a spike in the air pollution levels.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Just a day ahead of Diwali, Delhi's air quality dropped to season's worst on Saturday, due to decrease speed of the wind affecting the dispersion of dust particles.

Just a day ahead of Diwali, Delhi's air quality dropped to season's worst on Saturday, due to decrease speed of the wind affecting the dispersion of dust particles. "The decrease in wind speed has started to negatively influence Delhi's air quality by drastically decreasing ventilation coefficients and thereby affecting dispersion," said the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). At 10 am today, the overall air quality of Delhi was docking at 305, said SAFAR. The organisation had predicted that tomorrow, the air quality will get even worse from today. The AQI is expected to be around 324. 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 increasing menace of air pollution in Delhi has erupted a political slugfest with allegation and counter allegation levelling across party lines. On Saturday, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Vijay Goel slammed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for not taking requisite measures to combat the pollution. Speaking to ANI, the former union minister said, " Pollution has increased in Delhi. In the last five years, Arvind Kejriwal has done nothing to reduce air pollution in the national capital. It was only the Centre who has taken steps like constructing bridges, highways and widened roads for traffic management and decongestion." He also slammed the Delhi government for re-introducing the Odd-Even scheme in Delhi in saying, "They have introduced this scheme just to be in the news. Their (AAP government) is to be in the advertisements. Odd-Even will again cause a problem for the people." To combat the menace of air pollution, the Arvind Kejriwal-led government in Delhi has announced the implementation of the Odd-Even scheme from November 4 to 15, 2019, stating that the smog from the nearby states due to the burning of crop residue is the major cause of pollution in the region. On a closer look, farmers residing in Haryana and Punjab usually burn the crop residue after harvesting paddy in the autumn season in order to clear the fields for summer harvest. Smoke from these two states travels to the national capital each year, leading to a spike in the air pollution levels.

Delhi chokes again day ahead of Diwali, likely to worsen tomorrow

Former cricketer and MP from Delhi East Gautam Gambhir on Saturday accused Delhi government of only putting up advertisements and doing nothing worthwhile to control pollution in the past four and a half years of its tenure.

"People of Delhi are in distress because of pollution but the Delhi government only brings out detailed advertisements on pollution control. It has done nothing to address pollution in the four and a half years they have been in power," Gambhir told ANI.

"Things will improve only when work is done on the ground and not by bringing out advertisements," he added.

Gambhir appealed to the public to not burn firecrackers this Diwali to make a positive change.

"People have become aware now and they do not burst crackers as much as they did earlier," he said.

He further said that the awareness programmes run by the Central government have created a difference on the ground.

The air quality in the national capital plunged to a `very poor` category on October 25 when the air quality index (AQI) clocked 326.

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`.&nbsp;

Former cricketer and MP from Delhi East Gautam Gambhir on Saturday accused Delhi government of only putting up advertisements and doing nothing worthwhile to control pollution in the past four and a half years of its tenure.

Former cricketer and MP from Delhi East Gautam Gambhir on Saturday accused Delhi government of only putting up advertisements and doing nothing worthwhile to control pollution in the past four and a half years of its tenure. "People of Delhi are in distress because of pollution but the Delhi government only brings out detailed advertisements on pollution control. It has done nothing to address pollution in the four and a half years they have been in power," Gambhir told ANI. "Things will improve only when work is done on the ground and not by bringing out advertisements," he added. Gambhir appealed to the public to not burn firecrackers this Diwali to make a positive change. "People have become aware now and they do not burst crackers as much as they did earlier," he said. He further said that the awareness programmes run by the Central government have created a difference on the ground. The air quality in the national capital plunged to a `very poor` category on October 25 when the air quality index (AQI) clocked 326. 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`.

Delhi government did nothing to tackle pollution, only puts up ads: Gautam Gambhir

The Delhi High Court on Thursday issued notice to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Congress leader P Chidambaram`s bail application in connection with the INX media money laundering case.

Justice Suresh Kumar Kait directed the agency to file a reply in seven days and fixed November 4 as the next date of hearing in the matter.

Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for Chidambaram, argued that there is no evidence of tampering, influencing witness and flight risk.

"This was the observation by the top court. When 60 days in CBI were getting over and there was a chance of my bail they (ED) wanted to arrest me. Today seven-day police custody is getting over today. I would like to press for bail after the 15-day custody period is over. The ED has interrogated him only on four occasions," Singhvi said.

Chidambaram on Wednesday moved a bail petition in the INX media case and asserted that all the other accused in the matter have been granted bail.

The ED which is probing the money laundering charges against the leader had arrested him on October 16, following which he was remanded in custody by a special court till October 24, which is also getting expired today.

"All other accused have been enlarged on bail. The petitioner has deep roots in the society and has been in the public life for 40 years," the bail plea said, alleging that the arrest was malafide and done with an intention to harm his reputation.

Chidambaram said he does not have the propensity to evade the law.

"The petitioner has throughout been available during the period of the investigation. Investigation agency did not recover or elicit any incriminating from the possession of Chidambaram during the searches," the plea stated.

The Supreme Court recently granted him bail in the money laundering case which is being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Chidambaram was arrested on August 21 by the CBI in connection with the graft case after which the court initially remanded him to custody and later sent to Tihar Jail.

The agency has recently charge-sheeted him and others, including his son Karti and a handful of bureaucrats, for causing loss to the exchequer by allegedly committing offences under the Prevention of Corruption (PC) Act and the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

The CBI had registered an FIR on May 15, 2017, alleging irregularities in a Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance granted to the INX Media group for receiving overseas funds of Rs 305 crore in 2007, during Chidambaram`s tenure as finance minister.

Thereafter, the ED lodged a money laundering case in this regard in 2017.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Delhi High Court on Thursday issued notice to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Congress leader P Chidambaram`s bail application in connection with the INX media money laundering case.

The Delhi High Court on Thursday issued notice to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Congress leader P Chidambaram`s bail application in connection with the INX media money laundering case. Justice Suresh Kumar Kait directed the agency to file a reply in seven days and fixed November 4 as the next date of hearing in the matter. Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for Chidambaram, argued that there is no evidence of tampering, influencing witness and flight risk. "This was the observation by the top court. When 60 days in CBI were getting over and there was a chance of my bail they (ED) wanted to arrest me. Today seven-day police custody is getting over today. I would like to press for bail after the 15-day custody period is over. The ED has interrogated him only on four occasions," Singhvi said. Chidambaram on Wednesday moved a bail petition in the INX media case and asserted that all the other accused in the matter have been granted bail. The ED which is probing the money laundering charges against the leader had arrested him on October 16, following which he was remanded in custody by a special court till October 24, which is also getting expired today. "All other accused have been enlarged on bail. The petitioner has deep roots in the society and has been in the public life for 40 years," the bail plea said, alleging that the arrest was malafide and done with an intention to harm his reputation. Chidambaram said he does not have the propensity to evade the law. "The petitioner has throughout been available during the period of the investigation. Investigation agency did not recover or elicit any incriminating from the possession of Chidambaram during the searches," the plea stated. The Supreme Court recently granted him bail in the money laundering case which is being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Chidambaram was arrested on August 21 by the CBI in connection with the graft case after which the court initially remanded him to custody and later sent to Tihar Jail. The agency has recently charge-sheeted him and others, including his son Karti and a handful of bureaucrats, for causing loss to the exchequer by allegedly committing offences under the Prevention of Corruption (PC) Act and the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The CBI had registered an FIR on May 15, 2017, alleging irregularities in a Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance granted to the INX Media group for receiving overseas funds of Rs 305 crore in 2007, during Chidambaram`s tenure as finance minister. Thereafter, the ED lodged a money laundering case in this regard in 2017.

INX media case: Delhi High Court issues notice to ED on Chidambaram's bail plea

As his party, Janata Dal (United) gears for the elections scheduled for 2020 in Delhi, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Wednesday vouched for granting full statehood to the national capital.

"My party and I have always vouched for giving full statehood for Delhi. And we have said this everytime. So that they can look after everything from law and order, development among others," Kumar said addressing his party workers here.

The JDU chief also raised the demand for special category status for Bihar in the meeting.

"Just like we want special status for Bihar, we have always wanted statehood for Delhi," Kumar said.

The JDU is looking to contest Assembly elections next year in the national capital and is eyeing the voter base from Bihar and Poorvanchal region in Delhi.

"Even if just for a day the people of Bihar residing in Delhi decide that they will not work then the whole Delhi will come to a stop," Kumar said in an attempt to woo the voters from the region.&nbsp;

As his party, Janata Dal (United) gears for the elections scheduled for 2020 in Delhi, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Wednesday vouched for granting full statehood to the national capital.

As his party, Janata Dal (United) gears for the elections scheduled for 2020 in Delhi, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Wednesday vouched for granting full statehood to the national capital. "My party and I have always vouched for giving full statehood for Delhi. And we have said this everytime. So that they can look after everything from law and order, development among others," Kumar said addressing his party workers here. The JDU chief also raised the demand for special category status for Bihar in the meeting. "Just like we want special status for Bihar, we have always wanted statehood for Delhi," Kumar said. The JDU is looking to contest Assembly elections next year in the national capital and is eyeing the voter base from Bihar and Poorvanchal region in Delhi. "Even if just for a day the people of Bihar residing in Delhi decide that they will not work then the whole Delhi will come to a stop," Kumar said in an attempt to woo the voters from the region.

Nitish Kumar vouches for full statehood for Delhi

Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari on Sunday took a jibe at Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for blaming farmers for the increase in the pollution levels.

Speaking to media persons here, Tiwari said, "Whenever the pollution level shoots up, Kejriwal blames farmers for burning their stubble. No stubble is being burnt anywhere. The pollution is because of the increase in traffic on the roads and burning of garbage by the people of the city."

Tiwari also hailed the Indian Army for destroying terror launch pads located in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK).&nbsp;

"India has lost its patience and now the terrorists will not be spared," he said.

The Indian Army, today, started using artillery guns to target terrorist camps in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) which have been actively trying to push terrorists into Indian Territory.

Four terror launch pads in Neelam valley of PoK were targeted and fatalities have been reported, sources said.

This comes after an unprovoked ceasefire violation was started by the Pakistani side to push infiltrators into the Indian side.&nbsp;

Two Indian soldiers and a civilian were killed in firing by Pakistan Army in Tangdhar sector of Kupwara in Jammu and Kashmir.In retaliation, the Indian Army inflicted heavy damages and casualties on the Pakistan side.&nbsp;

Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari on Sunday took a jibe at Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for blaming farmers for the increase in the pollution levels. Speaking to media persons here, Tiwari said, "Whenever the pollution level shoots up, Kejriwal blames farmers for burning their stubble.

Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari on Sunday took a jibe at Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for blaming farmers for the increase in the pollution levels. Speaking to media persons here, Tiwari said, "Whenever the pollution level shoots up, Kejriwal blames farmers for burning their stubble. No stubble is being burnt anywhere. The pollution is because of the increase in traffic on the roads and burning of garbage by the people of the city." Tiwari also hailed the Indian Army for destroying terror launch pads located in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). "India has lost its patience and now the terrorists will not be spared," he said. The Indian Army, today, started using artillery guns to target terrorist camps in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) which have been actively trying to push terrorists into Indian Territory. Four terror launch pads in Neelam valley of PoK were targeted and fatalities have been reported, sources said. This comes after an unprovoked ceasefire violation was started by the Pakistani side to push infiltrators into the Indian side. Two Indian soldiers and a civilian were killed in firing by Pakistan Army in Tangdhar sector of Kupwara in Jammu and Kashmir.In retaliation, the Indian Army inflicted heavy damages and casualties on the Pakistan side.

Whenever pollution levels shoots up, Kejriwal blames farmers: Manoj Tiwari

The past 24-hours have brought relief to the people residing in Delhi and its adjoining areas such as Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad and Ghaziabad as the air quality index (AQI) on Saturday slightly improved from 'very poor'&nbsp;to 'poor'&nbsp;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 was docking at 242, which falls in the 'poor'&nbsp;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'&nbsp;category at 236.

Furthermore, AQI near Chandni Chowk, Airport, Terminal 3 and Delhi University stood at 375, 234 and 256 respectively.

The organisation has advised 'Sensitive Groups'&nbsp;to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion.

The locals are advised to take more breaks and do less intense activities.

The asthmatics have been advised to keep medicine ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. "Heart patients, see the doctor, if get palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue," the organisation stated in its advisory.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The past 24-hours have brought relief to the people residing in Delhi and its adjoining areas such as Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad and Ghaziabad as the air quality index (AQI) on Saturday slightly improved from 'very poor' to '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 relief to the people residing in Delhi and its adjoining areas such as Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad and Ghaziabad as the air quality index (AQI) on Saturday slightly improved from 'very poor' to '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 was docking at 242, which falls in the '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. The organisation has advised 'Sensitive Groups' to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion. The locals are advised to take more breaks and do less intense activities. The asthmatics have been advised to keep medicine ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. "Heart patients, see the doctor, if get palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue," the organisation stated in its advisory.

Air quality in Delhi improves slightly today, concerns persist

Delhi is once again inching towards the worst time of the year in terms of air pollution, as the national capital`s air quality is getting toxic day by day.

The government-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) on Friday said overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of the national capital with Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5 was detected at 375, which falls in the ` very poor` category.

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 or hazardous.

At Mathura road, major pollutant PM 2.5 was detected at 267 (hazardous), while in Dhirpur and Delhi University, the air quality dipped to the `very poor` category at 316 and 309, respectively.

In Chandni Chowk also, the air quality plunged to `poor category` at 276 AQI.

"During morning walk we feel irritation in eyes due to dust and smog in the air. I also feel breathless after jogging for a few minutes. People are using more and more cars which is why pollution is increasing in Delhi," said Raj Kumar, a local.

"I feel suffocated when I go for a walk at India Gate. The pollution is increasing in Delhi. I request the government to take requisite measures to curb the menace," said Sharanjeet Singh, another local.

The IMD has forecasted that the minimum and the maximum temperature in the capital will be around 21 and 33 degrees Celsius, respectively, throughout the day. The humidity will be 47 per cent with wind speed 10 kilometres per hour.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Delhi is once again inching towards the worst time of the year in terms of air pollution, as the national capital`s air quality is getting toxic day by day. The government-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) on Friday said overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of the national capital with Particulate Matter (PM) 2.

Delhi is once again inching towards the worst time of the year in terms of air pollution, as the national capital`s air quality is getting toxic day by day. The government-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) on Friday said overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of the national capital with Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5 was detected at 375, which falls in the ` very poor` category. 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 or hazardous. At Mathura road, major pollutant PM 2.5 was detected at 267 (hazardous), while in Dhirpur and Delhi University, the air quality dipped to the `very poor` category at 316 and 309, respectively. In Chandni Chowk also, the air quality plunged to `poor category` at 276 AQI. "During morning walk we feel irritation in eyes due to dust and smog in the air. I also feel breathless after jogging for a few minutes. People are using more and more cars which is why pollution is increasing in Delhi," said Raj Kumar, a local. "I feel suffocated when I go for a walk at India Gate. The pollution is increasing in Delhi. I request the government to take requisite measures to curb the menace," said Sharanjeet Singh, another local. The IMD has forecasted that the minimum and the maximum temperature in the capital will be around 21 and 33 degrees Celsius, respectively, throughout the day. The humidity will be 47 per cent with wind speed 10 kilometres per hour.

Delhi chokes with dusty haze, air quality remains 'very poor'

Amid tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/exclusive-wion-examines-balakot-air-strikes-by-indian-air-force-201044">Balakot airstrikes</a> in February, Pakistani fighter jets intercepted a Kabul-bound Indian passenger plane for almost an hour over their airspace last month.

The SpiceJet flight was mid-air when two Pakistani F-16 jets flanked the commercial plane and asked its pilot to lower its altitude and report to them with the flight details.

The incident occurred on September 23 and the flight involved in the incident was SG-21, which had taken off from Delhi for Kabul. Around 120 passengers were on board. More importantly, the incident was reported when Pakistan airspace was not closed for India.

The SpiceJet captain briefed Pakistani F-16 jet pilots, saying, "This is SpiceJet, Indian commercial aircraft, which carries passengers and is going to Kabul as per schedule," sources told.

When the F-16s rounded up SpiceJet, the Pakistani jets and their pilots could be seen by passengers. One of the passengers on the flight, on the conditions of anonymity, told ANI that the Pakistani fighter pilot instructed SpiceJet pilot through hand signs to lower the altitude of the commercial plane.

According to sources, every flight has its code, like SpiceJet is known as `SG`. It caused confusion and Pakistani ATC misunderstood SpiceJet as `IA` and misinterpreted it as the Indian Army or India Airforce. When Pakistani ATC reported about an aircraft coming from India with IA code they immediately launched their F-16s to intercept the Indian plane.

After the confusion was sorted out, the Pakistani fighters escorted the SpiceJet out of Pakistan airspace till they entered Afghanistan, confirmed a DGCA official. "At the time when Pakistani F-16s were flying around their flight, all passengers were asked to shut their windows and maintain silence," the passengers told ANI.

After the flight landed safely in Kabul, it`s return journey was delayed by almost five hours as Pakistani embassy officials in Kabul scrambled to clear paperwork involving the mid-air mix up.&nbsp;

Amid tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad after Balakot airstrikes in February, Pakistani fighter jets intercepted a Kabul-bound Indian passenger plane for almost an hour over their airspace last month.

Amid tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad after Balakot airstrikes in February, Pakistani fighter jets intercepted a Kabul-bound Indian passenger plane for almost an hour over their airspace last month. The SpiceJet flight was mid-air when two Pakistani F-16 jets flanked the commercial plane and asked its pilot to lower its altitude and report to them with the flight details. The incident occurred on September 23 and the flight involved in the incident was SG-21, which had taken off from Delhi for Kabul. Around 120 passengers were on board. More importantly, the incident was reported when Pakistan airspace was not closed for India. The SpiceJet captain briefed Pakistani F-16 jet pilots, saying, "This is SpiceJet, Indian commercial aircraft, which carries passengers and is going to Kabul as per schedule," sources told. When the F-16s rounded up SpiceJet, the Pakistani jets and their pilots could be seen by passengers. One of the passengers on the flight, on the conditions of anonymity, told ANI that the Pakistani fighter pilot instructed SpiceJet pilot through hand signs to lower the altitude of the commercial plane. According to sources, every flight has its code, like SpiceJet is known as `SG`. It caused confusion and Pakistani ATC misunderstood SpiceJet as `IA` and misinterpreted it as the Indian Army or India Airforce. When Pakistani ATC reported about an aircraft coming from India with IA code they immediately launched their F-16s to intercept the Indian plane. After the confusion was sorted out, the Pakistani fighters escorted the SpiceJet out of Pakistan airspace till they entered Afghanistan, confirmed a DGCA official. "At the time when Pakistani F-16s were flying around their flight, all passengers were asked to shut their windows and maintain silence," the passengers told ANI. After the flight landed safely in Kabul, it`s return journey was delayed by almost five hours as Pakistani embassy officials in Kabul scrambled to clear paperwork involving the mid-air mix up.

After Pakistan ATC mix up, Pakistan F-16 jets intercepted Delhi-Kabul Spicejet flight last month

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday announced that persons with disabilities will be exempted from the odd-even vehicle rationing system which will be implemented in the national capital after Diwali. "Yes @MajDPSingh, persons with disabilities will definitely be exempt during Odd-Even," Kejriwal tweeted.

The chief minister was responding to a tweet by Major DP Singh, a Kargil War veteran, who stated that he is an amputee and cannot travel in Delhi metro.

"How about persons with disabilities @ArvindKejriwal sir? I am an amputee and can't sit in the metro with an artificial leg due to ill-designed seats. So would be the bus ride for me due to pushes and pulls. The only option is my own car. What do I and many like me do?" Major DP Singh tweeted.

After Kejriwal's positive response, the former army man quoted the chief minister's tweet and wrote, "Thank you @ArvindKejriwal sir. Appreciate your kind response and support. Jai Hind."

The odd-even vehicle rationing scheme will be implemented in the national capital after Diwali, from November 4 to 15.

Last week, Kejriwal had announced that women will be exempted from the scheme, however, private CNG vehicles will come under its ambit.

A decision on two-wheelers is yet to be taken. A flagship scheme of the Aam Aadmi Party government, aimed at combatting pollution, it was first implemented in 2015.

The scheme entails cars with odd and even number plates to run on alternate days. For the last few years, the national capital has been grappling with smog every winter, raising health concerns.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday announced that persons with disabilities will be exempted from the odd-even vehicle rationing system which will be implemented in the national capital after Diwali.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday announced that persons with disabilities will be exempted from the odd-even vehicle rationing system which will be implemented in the national capital after Diwali. "Yes @MajDPSingh, persons with disabilities will definitely be exempt during Odd-Even," Kejriwal tweeted. The chief minister was responding to a tweet by Major DP Singh, a Kargil War veteran, who stated that he is an amputee and cannot travel in Delhi metro. "How about persons with disabilities @ArvindKejriwal sir? I am an amputee and can't sit in the metro with an artificial leg due to ill-designed seats. So would be the bus ride for me due to pushes and pulls. The only option is my own car. What do I and many like me do?" Major DP Singh tweeted. After Kejriwal's positive response, the former army man quoted the chief minister's tweet and wrote, "Thank you @ArvindKejriwal sir. Appreciate your kind response and support. Jai Hind." The odd-even vehicle rationing scheme will be implemented in the national capital after Diwali, from November 4 to 15. Last week, Kejriwal had announced that women will be exempted from the scheme, however, private CNG vehicles will come under its ambit. A decision on two-wheelers is yet to be taken. A flagship scheme of the Aam Aadmi Party government, aimed at combatting pollution, it was first implemented in 2015. The scheme entails cars with odd and even number plates to run on alternate days. For the last few years, the national capital has been grappling with smog every winter, raising health concerns.

Disabled people exempted from Odd-Even scheme in Delhi: Arvind Kejriwal

Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi took a hit on Friday as the concentration of the particulate matter -- PM 2.5 and PM 10 -- levels in the air shot up.

According to the AQI data, major pollutants PM 2.5 stood at 185 in the `moderate` category and PM 10 at 201 in the `poor` category in New Delhi`s Lodhi Road area.

Smog was also seen blanketing the sky, thereby resulting in decreased visibility.

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 air quality before the festival of Dussehra was in "satisfactory" and "moderate" category.

It apparently took a hit after an effigy of Ravana, Kumbhkarana and Meghnad were burnt along with the firecrackers on Dussehra which deteriorated the air quality.&nbsp;

Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi took a hit on Friday as the concentration of the particulate matter -- PM 2.5 and PM 10 -- levels in the air shot up. According to the AQI data, major pollutants PM 2.

Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi took a hit on Friday as the concentration of the particulate matter -- PM 2.5 and PM 10 -- levels in the air shot up. According to the AQI data, major pollutants PM 2.5 stood at 185 in the `moderate` category and PM 10 at 201 in the `poor` category in New Delhi`s Lodhi Road area. Smog was also seen blanketing the sky, thereby resulting in decreased visibility. 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 air quality before the festival of Dussehra was in "satisfactory" and "moderate" category. It apparently took a hit after an effigy of Ravana, Kumbhkarana and Meghnad were burnt along with the firecrackers on Dussehra which deteriorated the air quality.

Delhi's air quality takes a hit, particulate matter level shoots up

The first-ever India International Cooperatives Trade Fair (IICTF) will be held at Pragati Maidan here from October 11.

Speaking to ANI, Union Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said, "The ministries of Agriculture and Commerce and Industry have organised a three-day India International Cooperative trade fair from October 11 to 13. In addition to many co-operatives, more than 35 countries will be taking part in the fair." 
 
The fair has been jointly organised by National Cooperative Development Corporation in association with the Bangkok-based international organisation NEDAC and leading organisations in India like NAFED, APEDA and ITPO. 
 
In addition, six state governments and Union Territories are partners of IICTF. 
 
Bangladesh is also a partner country in the event. 
 
Tomar further said that the joint initiative is getting a good response. During the trade fair, a seminar will also be held in which representatives from different countries will share their experiences and opinions. 
 
In a statement, the Agriculture Ministry said that the event has received an overwhelming response both domestically and abroad. 
 
More than 150 Indian cooperatives, 20 organisations from the Centre, States and Union Territories and 35 countries have purchased exhibition booths so far for participation. 
 
"The trade fair is expected to evolve a conducive environment for cooperative trade in the global arena, help in expansion and diversification of business, technology transfer, help lay international quality benchmark for cooperative products," an official statement read.&nbsp;

The first-ever India International Cooperatives Trade Fair (IICTF) will be held at Pragati Maidan here from October 11. Speaking to ANI, Union Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said, "The ministries of Agriculture and Commerce and Industry have organised a three-day India International Cooperative trade fair from October 11 to 13.

The first-ever India International Cooperatives Trade Fair (IICTF) will be held at Pragati Maidan here from October 11. Speaking to ANI, Union Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said, "The ministries of Agriculture and Commerce and Industry have organised a three-day India International Cooperative trade fair from October 11 to 13. In addition to many co-operatives, more than 35 countries will be taking part in the fair." The fair has been jointly organised by National Cooperative Development Corporation in association with the Bangkok-based international organisation NEDAC and leading organisations in India like NAFED, APEDA and ITPO. In addition, six state governments and Union Territories are partners of IICTF. Bangladesh is also a partner country in the event. Tomar further said that the joint initiative is getting a good response. During the trade fair, a seminar will also be held in which representatives from different countries will share their experiences and opinions. In a statement, the Agriculture Ministry said that the event has received an overwhelming response both domestically and abroad. More than 150 Indian cooperatives, 20 organisations from the Centre, States and Union Territories and 35 countries have purchased exhibition booths so far for participation. "The trade fair is expected to evolve a conducive environment for cooperative trade in the global arena, help in expansion and diversification of business, technology transfer, help lay international quality benchmark for cooperative products," an official statement read.

First ever India International Cooperative Trade Fair to be held in Delhi

Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/javadekar-backs-cutting-trees-at-aarey-says-development-and-environment-protection-should-go-together-253905">Prakash Javadekar</a> on Monday said that much needs to be done to address the issue of stubble burning that impacts Delhi's air quality in the winter months and noted that the central government has provided Rs 1150 crore assistance for machines that will allow stubble to be converted to manure. 
 
Addressing a press conference, the minister said the problem of stubble burning was old and steps have been taken to tackle it by the Modi government. 
 
"The biggest question and it will come again is stubble burning," Javadekar said at a press conference here on steps taken to by the central government to deal with the problem of air pollution in Delhi. 
 
He said farmers in Haryana and Punjab have been burning stubble for years and if such air reaches Delhi, it adds to worries. 
 
"If the (polluted) air comes to Delhi, the issue becomes serious. For this, the central government has provided assistance of Rs 1150 crore and 18,000 machines have been given to farmers in Punjab and Haryana. They will not need to burn the stubble. It will be broken and will be turned into manure," he said. 
 
"There is a need to do it much more. Now it has started, earlier it had not even started. It has been burning for 20 years, but work has started now,' he said. 
The minister said the government has for the first time made "construction and demolition waste management rules" which are based on those followed for metro construction. 
 
He said three units to deal with construction and demolition waste were working and another four will be set up. The minister said that the measures have prevented 6 lakh tonne of debris from going into rivers and drains. 
 
He added that 76 road sweeping machines and 502 water sprinklers have been provided to deal with the problem of dust. 
 
Additionally, three waste-to-energy plants were using 6000 tonnes of waste to produce 52 MW power. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/use-only-green-crackers-during-diwali-says-javadekar-254294">The minister said bio-mining was being used in landfills like Ghazipur</a> which will help in segregating material and help decompose organic material.

Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Prakash Javadekar on Monday said that much needs to be done to address the issue of stubble burning that impacts Delhi's air quality in the winter months and noted that the central government has provided Rs 1150 crore assistance for machines that will allow stubble to be converted to manure.

Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Prakash Javadekar on Monday said that much needs to be done to address the issue of stubble burning that impacts Delhi's air quality in the winter months and noted that the central government has provided Rs 1150 crore assistance for machines that will allow stubble to be converted to manure. Addressing a press conference, the minister said the problem of stubble burning was old and steps have been taken to tackle it by the Modi government. "The biggest question and it will come again is stubble burning," Javadekar said at a press conference here on steps taken to by the central government to deal with the problem of air pollution in Delhi. He said farmers in Haryana and Punjab have been burning stubble for years and if such air reaches Delhi, it adds to worries. "If the (polluted) air comes to Delhi, the issue becomes serious. For this, the central government has provided assistance of Rs 1150 crore and 18,000 machines have been given to farmers in Punjab and Haryana. They will not need to burn the stubble. It will be broken and will be turned into manure," he said. "There is a need to do it much more. Now it has started, earlier it had not even started. It has been burning for 20 years, but work has started now,' he said. The minister said the government has for the first time made "construction and demolition waste management rules" which are based on those followed for metro construction. He said three units to deal with construction and demolition waste were working and another four will be set up. The minister said that the measures have prevented 6 lakh tonne of debris from going into rivers and drains. He added that 76 road sweeping machines and 502 water sprinklers have been provided to deal with the problem of dust. Additionally, three waste-to-energy plants were using 6000 tonnes of waste to produce 52 MW power. The minister said bio-mining was being used in landfills like Ghazipur which will help in segregating material and help decompose organic material.

Much needs to be done to deal with stubble burning, says Javadekar

Delhi and its nearby regions such as Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad and Faridabad are likely to receive moderate rainfall on Saturday, predicted the weather department.

The India Meteorological Department also stated that the minimum and the maximum temperatures in Delhi-NCR would hover between 22 degree Celsius and 34 degree Celsius with a generally cloudy sky.

The air quality of Delhi is in the moderate category with overall Air Quality Index (AQI) docking at 105, according to SAFAR.

At Mathura Road, the AQI was 128 with Particulate Matter (PM) 10.

At Dhirpur, the AQI was 99 while in the Pusa area it improved to 'satisfactory'&nbsp;category at 71.

Furthermore, AQI near Lodhi Road, Airport Terminal 3 and Chandni Chowk stood at 85, 123 and 182, respectively.

Heavy rain with strong winds lashed parts of the national capital on Friday causing waterlogging and traffic disruptions.

Some parts of the city also saw hailstorm, the weather agency said.

Apart from Delhi, heavy rainfall is predicted over Bihar and South Interior Karnataka.

The IMD in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin stated that thunderstorm accompanied with lightning is likely to occur at isolated places over Marathawada, Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar and West Bengal and Sikkim.&nbsp; 
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Delhi and its nearby regions such as Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad and Faridabad are likely to receive moderate rainfall on Saturday, predicted the weather department.

Delhi and its nearby regions such as Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad and Faridabad are likely to receive moderate rainfall on Saturday, predicted the weather department. The India Meteorological Department also stated that the minimum and the maximum temperatures in Delhi-NCR would hover between 22 degree Celsius and 34 degree Celsius with a generally cloudy sky. The air quality of Delhi is in the moderate category with overall Air Quality Index (AQI) docking at 105, according to SAFAR. At Mathura Road, the AQI was 128 with Particulate Matter (PM) 10. At Dhirpur, the AQI was 99 while in the Pusa area it improved to 'satisfactory' category at 71. Furthermore, AQI near Lodhi Road, Airport Terminal 3 and Chandni Chowk stood at 85, 123 and 182, respectively. Heavy rain with strong winds lashed parts of the national capital on Friday causing waterlogging and traffic disruptions. Some parts of the city also saw hailstorm, the weather agency said. Apart from Delhi, heavy rainfall is predicted over Bihar and South Interior Karnataka. The IMD in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin stated that thunderstorm accompanied with lightning is likely to occur at isolated places over Marathawada, Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar and West Bengal and Sikkim.

Delhi likely to receive light rains today: IMD

The Delhi Transport Union has called for a one-day strike on Thursday against the hefty fines imposed for violating traffic rules under the newly amended <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/most-of-the-states-support-new-motor-vehicle-rules-gadkari-250331">Motor Vehicles (MV) Act 2019.</a>

A large number of public vehicles, like buses and autos are on strike against the fines, inconveniencing several commuters in Delhi and NCR who depend on these modes of transportation.

An auto-rickshaw driver, Sanjay Kumar Shah said, "The rate of the challans (fines) are very high. Earlier we paid Rs 100 fine which has now increased to Rs 25,000. So we are against this implementation. Our earnings can't meet the heights of challans."

Outlining the plight of commuters, a Delhi local Satendra told ANI, "As all the buses and autos are on strike it is getting difficult for us to manage today. I have been standing at the bus stand for more than an hour. The government should not keep such high challans. It is difficult for the auto people to pay. Their earnings are way less than the challans they are asked to pay."

Last month, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways had notified the provisions of the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019, which was implemented in several states from September 1.

The law enforces heavy fines and stricter penalties for traffic violations. There have been several instances where people have coughed up hefty fines for traffic violations in many parts of the country.&nbsp;

The Delhi Transport Union has called for a one-day strike on Thursday against the hefty fines imposed for violating traffic rules under the newly amended Motor Vehicles (MV) Act 2019.

The Delhi Transport Union has called for a one-day strike on Thursday against the hefty fines imposed for violating traffic rules under the newly amended Motor Vehicles (MV) Act 2019. A large number of public vehicles, like buses and autos are on strike against the fines, inconveniencing several commuters in Delhi and NCR who depend on these modes of transportation. An auto-rickshaw driver, Sanjay Kumar Shah said, "The rate of the challans (fines) are very high. Earlier we paid Rs 100 fine which has now increased to Rs 25,000. So we are against this implementation. Our earnings can't meet the heights of challans." Outlining the plight of commuters, a Delhi local Satendra told ANI, "As all the buses and autos are on strike it is getting difficult for us to manage today. I have been standing at the bus stand for more than an hour. The government should not keep such high challans. It is difficult for the auto people to pay. Their earnings are way less than the challans they are asked to pay." Last month, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways had notified the provisions of the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019, which was implemented in several states from September 1. The law enforces heavy fines and stricter penalties for traffic violations. There have been several instances where people have coughed up hefty fines for traffic violations in many parts of the country.

Delhi Transport Union on strike against hefty fines under new Motor Vehicles Act

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