Air quality index (AQI) in India's capital city has plummeted again, and Delhi has returned to breathing polluted air. Meanwhile, there has been a spike in the cancer-causing pollutant PM 2.5. It penetrates the lungs and causes chronic respiratory illness.&nbsp;The PM 2.5 level in Delhi's air is nearly 100 times above the safe limit, as per World Health Organisation.

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Despite the measures taken by Delhi authorities to monitor pollution levels in India's capital city, the air quality remains shoddy. As per predictions, the air quality is likely to worsen in Delhi, due to which authorities have set more restrictions. 
 
The officials at the Met office in Delhi said the double whammy of a poor air quality and ongoing severe cold wave will only add to the woes and Delhi's air quality will hover in the 'very poor' category&nbsp;over the next three to four days.

As per the Centre's air quality panel, CAQM, the air quality in the dark red zones of Delhi will plunge in the upcoming days. Moreover, dense fog, calm winds, and low temperatures will accompany inferior air quality.&nbsp;

CAQM has banned coal's industrial usage and has asked them to swap it for cleaner fuel. But people frequently use fuels like biomass and metallurgical coke in India's capital city.

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Due to the deteriorating air quality in Delhi, people are also questioning CAQM's Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). On January 4, CAQM relaxed tight restrictions quoting the predictions by the Indian Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology.

Although the ban on coal is effective, the administration must look into a regional clean-up of Delhi, reports say. Such measures will help the industries benefit from their switch to natural gas.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Air quality index (AQI) in India's capital city has plummeted again, and Delhi has returned to breathing polluted air. Meanwhile, there has been a spike in the cancer-causing pollutant PM 2.

Air quality index (AQI) in India's capital city has plummeted again, and Delhi has returned to breathing polluted air. Meanwhile, there has been a spike in the cancer-causing pollutant PM 2.5. It penetrates the lungs and causes chronic respiratory illness. The PM 2.5 level in Delhi's air is nearly 100 times above the safe limit, as per World Health Organisation. Also Read | Air India passenger accused of urinating on woman co-flyer sent to judicial custody for 14-days Despite the measures taken by Delhi authorities to monitor pollution levels in India's capital city, the air quality remains shoddy. As per predictions, the air quality is likely to worsen in Delhi, due to which authorities have set more restrictions. The officials at the Met office in Delhi said the double whammy of a poor air quality and ongoing severe cold wave will only add to the woes and Delhi's air quality will hover in the 'very poor' category over the next three to four days. As per the Centre's air quality panel, CAQM, the air quality in the dark red zones of Delhi will plunge in the upcoming days. Moreover, dense fog, calm winds, and low temperatures will accompany inferior air quality. CAQM has banned coal's industrial usage and has asked them to swap it for cleaner fuel. But people frequently use fuels like biomass and metallurgical coke in India's capital city. Watch | China: Covid-19 cases on the rise, WHO urges to share real-time data Due to the deteriorating air quality in Delhi, people are also questioning CAQM's Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). On January 4, CAQM relaxed tight restrictions quoting the predictions by the Indian Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology. Although the ban on coal is effective, the administration must look into a regional clean-up of Delhi, reports say. Such measures will help the industries benefit from their switch to natural gas. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Air quality in India's capital city Delhi plunges, spike in lung cancer-causing pollutants

Pollution has made the air of India's capital New Delhi and the surrounding regions unbreathable. The toxic air poses multiple severe health complications to those who are breathing it, including children, adults elderly, and also animals.

Pollution has made the air of India's capital New Delhi and the surrounding regions unbreathable. The toxic air poses multiple severe health complications to those who are breathing it, including children, adults elderly, and also animals. Describing the conditions in one word, Dr Arvind Kumar of Medanta hospital called it a "disaster". The government and related agencies are trying to mitigate the effects by implementing several measures, but the quality of air has gotten worse in the past few days, with experts saying that it might deteriorate further. To discuss the situation in-depth, and understand how it will put a long-term impact on our health, WION spoke to Dr Arvind Kumar, who is the chairman of the institute of chest surgery- chest Onco Surgery and lung transplantation at Medanta hospital in Gurugram. The levels of air pollution in Delhi and rest of the north India today are at a disastrous level, Dr Kumar said while speaking to WION in a virtual interaction. Dr Kumar said, "No one can escape the ill effects of pollution. The quality of the air is disastrous and horrible." "Last year, we used the term 'medical emergency', but now the situation has gone worse than a medical emergency," Dr Kumar said. Currently, desperate measures have been put in by the administration to improve the situation, but the air in different parts of the northern Indian region remains toxic. As per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, the 24-hour average air quality index (AQI) on Sunday (November 6) stood at 339 at 4pm IST. It dropped from 381 a day ago. On Friday, it was 447. When it comes to Air Quality Index (AQI), it is considered "good" between zero and 50, between 51 and 100 is "satisfactory", 101 and 200 is "moderate", 201 and 300 is "poor", 301 and 400 is "very poor", and 401 and 500 is "severe". Massive impact on our health Dr Kumar said that "when you are exposed to such levels, the first impact is on the surface" of your body. Eyes, nose, lips, mouth, throat, skin, hair...these are exposed to the toxic air. Dr Kumar said that people report issues like redness, burning sensation, watering and itchiness in the eyes. He mentioned, itching in the nose, soreness in the throat, metallic taste in the mouth, dry hair, dry skin, rashes in the skin, and itchy skin also happens. Dr Kumar explained that an adult breathes 25,000 times in a day and every time, about 250cc to 350cc of air goes inside, around 10,000 litres in a day. Therefore, with the air we breathe, tonnes of toxins go into our system, and that toxins get deposited inside and they have short as well as long-term effects. Impact of air pollution Immediate impact Dr Kumar said that on the breathing passage, the immediate effect is in the form of swelling in the windpipe, in the lining of the lungs. And when these "toxins get absorbed through the lungs into the blood", they can go everywhere, from the brain to the toe, "causing swelling" everywhere. He said that in such scenarios, there is swelling in the brain, which is why we often get headaches when there's extreme pollution and it causes "hyperexcitability in children". "There's swelling in the heart, there's swelling in the blood vessels... so people are having pre-mature hypertension. A lot of them have high heart rates, which is called tachycardia," Dr Kumar said, adding that people are having different problems in other organs also. Short-term problems Dr Kumar said that people also suffer from short-term effects like bronchiolitis, bronchitis, bronchial asthma and pneumonia caused in the lungs. "You have all kinds of hyperexcitability, low IQ and other problems caused in the brain. You have pre-mature hypertension, irregular heartbeat, high heartbeat, etc in the heart. And other organs are also affected," he said. Long-term problems He noted that in long term, air pollution leads to "disastrous effects". In the brain, there is a 5%-10% higher incidence of brain attacks in adults. There is a 5%-10% higher incidence of heart attacks in adults. There are also problems occurring like hypertension and a high incidence of tuberculosis (TB) in the lungs. Dr Kumar said that there are diseases like COPD and emphysema. And lung cancer is being reported more and more in non-smokers from polluted areas across the country and also in the global scenario. 'Air pollution leads to deaths' Dr Kumar said that from head to toe, diseases are being reported due to air pollution. Also, disabilities and premature deaths are caused by it. Dr Kumar said that the number of deaths caused by air pollution annually "far exceeds" the number of deaths caused by coronavirus (COVID-19), TB, malaria, HIV and some other diseases combined. However, this major and avoidable cause of death gets little attention from people as well as the government, said the doctor adding that other causes get much more attention just because they are more "visible and direct". The effects of air pollution are invisible and indirect, he said, explaining that there's nothing like "air pollution caused heart attack". "So when a person dies of a heart attack, you will say he/she died of heart attack, but that attack was caused by air pollution, this fact doesn't get highlighted," he said. He said also said that he is trying to highlight the point and inform people that air pollution is the primary cause of a lot of diseases we are dying of today, even though the visible cause is something else. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Delhi air pollution is a 'disaster', a major and avoidable 'cause of death', expert tells WION

As the air quality in India's capital New Delhi and surrounding regions remain severe due to pollution, people lean towards buying air purifiers that can be very expensive also.

As the air quality in India's capital New Delhi and surrounding regions remain severe due to pollution, people lean towards buying air purifiers that can be very expensive also. Air purifier companies give assurances that they can effectively filter out the toxin pollutants from the air. The companies also say that it can trap and remove fungi, dust mites, mould spores, and certain types of bacteria also. Demandhave increased recently, but should we consider buying it? To know the details, WION spoke to Dr Arvind Kumar, who is the chairman of the institute of chest surgery- chest Onco Surgery and lung transplantation at Medanta hospital in Gurugram. Dr Kumar said that air pollution is a "public problem". A problem which impacts 1.38 billion people in the nation, but the air purifier is a "personal or a private solution". ALSO READ | Delhi air pollution is a 'disaster', a major and avoidable 'cause of death', expert tells WION The air purifier is a system that sucks in the air, which is later released after being filtered. It works just like an air conditioner. The windows, doors, and vents are supposed to be closed at all times to make the air purifiers efficient. It has to be a sealed closed room. You should have an air purifier with the capacity to handle the volume of air in your room. The filter is a mechanical process and if you have very high levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), the filter gets blocked. PM2.5 are tiny particles in the air that reduce visibility and cause the air to appear hazy when levels are elevated. Air purifier can become an 'air dirtifyer' Dr Kumar mentioned that the filter of an air purifier needs to be cleaned or changed at frequent intervals. But 99.9% of people are not told and do not do it. He noted that in several cases, this "air purifier" becomes an "air dirtifyer". Dr Kumar asked, can you remain locked inside a sealed room 24//7? Can the entire Indian population be locked inside rooms fitted with air purifiers? He said that if the answer is yes, then an air purifier is a solution, otherwise no. He concluded by saying that the solution is to "strike at the sources of air pollution, preventing the air from getting polluted". "The use of face masks, smog towers, etc are only cosmetic solutions. They serve no purpose as far as the masses are concerned," he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Delhi air pollution: Should you even consider buying air purifiers? Senior Indian doctor explains risks

New Delhi's Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, announced that the primary schools in India's capital city will reopen from Wednesday (November 9) as there is a slight improvement in the air quality in the region.&nbsp;

New Delhi's Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said last week that the primary schools in the national capital would be closed because of the extremely poor air pollution, which is causing health hazards.&nbsp;

Now, Rai has announced that the schools will re-open, and also a ban on open-air activities is being lifted. He further mentioned that the ban on truck entry has also been lifted.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/expert-tells-wion-delhi-air-pollution-is-a-disaster-a-major-and-avoidable-cause-of-death-531958">Delhi air pollution is a 'disaster', a major and avoidable 'cause of death', expert tells WION</a>&nbsp;

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While addressing a media briefing on Monday, Rai said: "In Delhi, the pollution level had crossed 450 in the last few days, due to which CAQM (Commission for Air Quality Management) had directed to implement phase four of the GRAP under which the entry of trucks was banned, primary schools were closed, 50 per cent work from home was instructed in government offices."&nbsp;

"However, air quality has been improving rapidly since yesterday (Sunday) and now the AQI stands at 350, and the wind direction has changed. In view of this, the CAQM decided to withdraw the phase four measures," he added.&nbsp;

Due to the air pollution, the Delhi government had asked half of its staff to work from home, but now it has been revoked as the minister said that the offices will be back to working at full capacity from Monday.&nbsp;

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Regarding construction, Rai said that except for railway, metro, airport, defence, and hospital, all other construction work will be banned under phase three of the GRAP.&nbsp;

New Delhi's Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, announced that the primary schools in India's capital city will reopen from Wednesday (November 9) as there is a slight improvement in the air quality in the region.

New Delhi's Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, announced that the primary schools in India's capital city will reopen from Wednesday (November 9) as there is a slight improvement in the air quality in the region. New Delhi's Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said last week that the primary schools in the national capital would be closed because of the extremely poor air pollution, which is causing health hazards. Now, Rai has announced that the schools will re-open, and also a ban on open-air activities is being lifted. He further mentioned that the ban on truck entry has also been lifted. ALSO READ | Delhi air pollution is a 'disaster', a major and avoidable 'cause of death', expert tells WION WATCH | WION Climate Tracker | COP27 Summit: Egypt looks at developed nations to fulfil financial purpose × While addressing a media briefing on Monday, Rai said: "In Delhi, the pollution level had crossed 450 in the last few days, due to which CAQM (Commission for Air Quality Management) had directed to implement phase four of the GRAP under which the entry of trucks was banned, primary schools were closed, 50 per cent work from home was instructed in government offices." "However, air quality has been improving rapidly since yesterday (Sunday) and now the AQI stands at 350, and the wind direction has changed. In view of this, the CAQM decided to withdraw the phase four measures," he added. Due to the air pollution, the Delhi government had asked half of its staff to work from home, but now it has been revoked as the minister said that the offices will be back to working at full capacity from Monday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. Regarding construction, Rai said that except for railway, metro, airport, defence, and hospital, all other construction work will be banned under phase three of the GRAP.

Delhi air pollution: Primary schools to reopen, truck entry ban also lifted

The air pollution is one of the most environmental health crises of our times and according to the United Nations, it is in fact responsible for an estimated 7 million premature deaths every single year. Meanwhile, it is not less than a punishment to live in the national capital with this pollution.

Delhi's air pollution: Thick smog covers India's capital, AQI in 'severe' category

WION Dispatch | India: Pollution choking New Delhi again, thick smog covers national capital

On Thursday, nearly all monitoring stations in the Indian capital&nbsp;saw the air quality index (AQI) break the "severe" and "dangerous" classifications, prompting calls for the closure of schools.&nbsp;Data from the Central Pollution Control Board show that the AQI was above 450 in numerous locations early in the day. According to the federal authorities, reading over 400 has an influence on healthy persons and has catastrophic consequences for people who already have diseases.&nbsp;

According to data from the Delhi Pollution Control Committee, the index exceeded 800 in some areas of the city.

In Delhi, Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage 4 has been put into effect. All relevant agencies in the NCR region will immediately put into action the order that has been made public. The GRAP's Stages 1, 2, and 3 will all still be in force for all activities.

"What is happening with air pollution in Delhi is nothing short of a crime against humanity!" author and socialite Suhel Seth wrote on Twitter. "There's a total collapse of accountability!"

Every winter, the smog that covers the capital of the most polluted country in the world is caused by the burning of crop stubble in neighbouring states to clear the fields for sowing the next one, which traps dust from construction, vehicle emissions, and other sources in the cold, dense air.&nbsp;

Sometimes, the air quality is made worse by lower temperatures, calmer breezes, and their occasionally shifting directions.&nbsp;

Social media users including parents and environmentalists asked that schools be shuttered.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-saw-extreme-weather-disasters-on-241-of-273-days-of-2022-claiming-2577-lives-530255">India saw extreme weather disasters on 241 of 273 days of 2022, claiming 2577 lives</a>

"I know children don’t vote for you, but still, requesting all the chief ministers of Delhi (capital region) to immediately SHUTDOWN all the schools," environmental activist Vimlendu Jha wrote on Twitter. "It's not NORMAL to breathe 500+ AQI, not for our children, where every third child already has some pulmonary challenge."

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is also the leader of the party ruling Punjab, where crop stubble burning is rampant, said on Twitter that people in both Punjab and Delhi are fighting pollution "at their level."&nbsp;

To prevent dust pollution, the capital this week halted the majority of construction and demolition projects. Additionally, it urged citizens to carpool&nbsp;instead of driving alone, work from home whenever possible, and use less coal and firewood at home.

( with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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On Thursday, nearly all monitoring stations in the Indian capital saw the air quality index (AQI) break the "severe" and "dangerous" classifications, prompting calls for the closure of schools.

On Thursday, nearly all monitoring stations in the Indian capital saw the air quality index (AQI) break the "severe" and "dangerous" classifications, prompting calls for the closure of schools. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board show that the AQI was above 450 in numerous locations early in the day. According to the federal authorities, reading over 400 has an influence on healthy persons and has catastrophic consequences for people who already have diseases. According to data from the Delhi Pollution Control Committee, the index exceeded 800 in some areas of the city. In Delhi, Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage 4 has been put into effect. All relevant agencies in the NCR region will immediately put into action the order that has been made public. The GRAP's Stages 1, 2, and 3 will all still be in force for all activities. "What is happening with air pollution in Delhi is nothing short of a crime against humanity!" author and socialite Suhel Seth wrote on Twitter. "There's a total collapse of accountability!" Every winter, the smog that covers the capital of the most polluted country in the world is caused by the burning of crop stubble in neighbouring states to clear the fields for sowing the next one, which traps dust from construction, vehicle emissions, and other sources in the cold, dense air. Sometimes, the air quality is made worse by lower temperatures, calmer breezes, and their occasionally shifting directions. Social media users including parents and environmentalists asked that schools be shuttered. Also Read: India saw extreme weather disasters on 241 of 273 days of 2022, claiming 2577 lives "I know children don’t vote for you, but still, requesting all the chief ministers of Delhi (capital region) to immediately SHUTDOWN all the schools," environmental activist Vimlendu Jha wrote on Twitter. "It's not NORMAL to breathe 500+ AQI, not for our children, where every third child already has some pulmonary challenge." Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is also the leader of the party ruling Punjab, where crop stubble burning is rampant, said on Twitter that people in both Punjab and Delhi are fighting pollution "at their level." To prevent dust pollution, the capital this week halted the majority of construction and demolition projects. Additionally, it urged citizens to carpool instead of driving alone, work from home whenever possible, and use less coal and firewood at home. ( with inputs from agencies)

Indian capital Delhi bad air 'crime against humanity', graded response action plan launched

In the wake of deteriorating air quality, the Indian capital Delhi has prohibited construction and demolition activities.

On Monday, the air quality index (AQI) was 415 in the Anand Vihar area of Delhi– more than eight times the “good” level, according to the Central Pollution Control Board.

The weather agency has predicted that the air quality would worsen from Tuesday due to calmer winds and other meteorological conditions.

“Experts are predicting that wind speed will fall from Nov. 1 and its direction will change,” Delhi’s environment minister, Gopal Rai, told a news conference on Sunday.

Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-new-delhi-records-30-less-air-pollution-than-last-year-post-diwali-528605">WION Climate Tracker: New Delhi records 30% less air pollution than last year post Diwali</a>

“Based on that, it is being predicted that the AQI would go beyond 400 into the severe category.”

He, however, did not further reveal when the restrictions could be lifted.

AQI is used as a yardstick to gauge the air quality of a region. The higher the AQI value, the greater the level of air pollution and the greater the health concern

A reading of above 400 is considered “severe” that can affect healthy people and seriously impact those with existing illnesses.

Every winter season, just after the Diwali festival, the city of over 20 million witnesses the worst air quality as cold and heavy air traps construction dust and vehicle emissions, apart from the smoke emanating out of crop residues that come from the neighbouring Haryana and Punjab states ahead of the new crop season.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/biomass-burning-rather-than-firecrackers-makes-delhis-air-quality-poor-says-iit-delhi-study-482184">Biomass burning rather than firecrackers makes Delhi’s air quality poor, says IIT Delhi study</a>

Meanwhile, the Delhi government has formed 586 teams to monitor the construction works, Rai said, adding that hospitals, railways, airports and other such public activities could be exempted from the ban.

Moreover, 521 machines have been deployed to sprinkle water across the city to settle dust while nearly 233 anti-smog guns have been dispatched, the minister added.

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In the wake of deteriorating air quality, the Indian capital Delhi has prohibited construction and demolition activities. On Monday, the air quality index (AQI) was 415 in the Anand Vihar area of Delhi– more than eight times the “good” level, according to the Central Pollution Control Board.

In the wake of deteriorating air quality, the Indian capital Delhi has prohibited construction and demolition activities. On Monday, the air quality index (AQI) was 415 in the Anand Vihar area of Delhi– more than eight times the “good” level, according to the Central Pollution Control Board. The weather agency has predicted that the air quality would worsen from Tuesday due to calmer winds and other meteorological conditions. “Experts are predicting that wind speed will fall from Nov. 1 and its direction will change,” Delhi’s environment minister, Gopal Rai, told a news conference on Sunday. Also watch: WION Climate Tracker: New Delhi records 30% less air pollution than last year post Diwali “Based on that, it is being predicted that the AQI would go beyond 400 into the severe category.” He, however, did not further reveal when the restrictions could be lifted. AQI is used as a yardstick to gauge the air quality of a region. The higher the AQI value, the greater the level of air pollution and the greater the health concern A reading of above 400 is considered “severe” that can affect healthy people and seriously impact those with existing illnesses. Every winter season, just after the Diwali festival, the city of over 20 million witnesses the worst air quality as cold and heavy air traps construction dust and vehicle emissions, apart from the smoke emanating out of crop residues that come from the neighbouring Haryana and Punjab states ahead of the new crop season. Also read: Biomass burning rather than firecrackers makes Delhi’s air quality poor, says IIT Delhi study Meanwhile, the Delhi government has formed 586 teams to monitor the construction works, Rai said, adding that hospitals, railways, airports and other such public activities could be exempted from the ban. Moreover, 521 machines have been deployed to sprinkle water across the city to settle dust while nearly 233 anti-smog guns have been dispatched, the minister added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India’s capital Delhi suspends construction activities as air quality set to worsen

Every year post the Diwali festival, the national capital Delhi is seen clouded with hazardous and unbreathable air. And it is squarely blamed either on stubble burning, as it coincides with crop harvesting season and fireworks. However, a recent study done by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has dispelled this notion.

According to their study, the reason air quality dips in the national capital a day after Diwali is because of biomass burning emissions rather than firecrackers.

The study titled 'Chemical speciation and source apportionment of ambient PM2.5’ has shed light on the pollution sources impacting the ambient air quality in New Delhi before, during, and after Diwali. &nbsp;

The researchers found that the metal content in PM2.5 levels rose by 1100 per cent, and the fireworks alone accounted for 95 per cent of the metal PM2.5during Diwali.

“However, the impact of the fireworks plummets within around 12 hours following Diwali,” reveals Chirag Manchanda, the lead author of this study.&nbsp;

The research study published in the journal “Atmospheric Pollution Research” has presented source-apportionment results for highly time-resolved elemental and organic fractions of PM2.5 to address the challenge.

“Both stubble burning and increased heating requirements of the region in winters drive the biomass burning activity”, adds Prof Vikram Singh, Department of Chemical Engineering, IIT Delhi, who was one of the investigators.&nbsp;

The study concludes by arguing, “The result of this study provides crucial insights into a topic of long-standing debate and concern between air quality experts and policymakers committed to alleviating the extreme air pollution events in the capital of Delhi following Diwali,” said the principal investigator Prof. Mayank Kumar, Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Delhi. &nbsp;

This study was partly funded by IIT Delhi and the Ministry of Education, Government of India and conducted as part of a collaborative effort between IIT Delhi, IIT Kanpur, and PRL Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

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Every year post the Diwali festival, the national capital Delhi is seen clouded with hazardous and unbreathable air. And it is squarely blamed either on stubble burning, as it coincides with crop harvesting season and fireworks.

Every year post the Diwali festival, the national capital Delhi is seen clouded with hazardous and unbreathable air. And it is squarely blamed either on stubble burning, as it coincides with crop harvesting season and fireworks. However, a recent study done by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has dispelled this notion. According to their study, the reason air quality dips in the national capital a day after Diwali is because of biomass burning emissions rather than firecrackers. The study titled 'Chemical speciation and source apportionment of ambient PM2.5’ has shed light on the pollution sources impacting the ambient air quality in New Delhi before, during, and after Diwali. The researchers found that the metal content in PM2.5 levels rose by 1100 per cent, and the fireworks alone accounted for 95 per cent of the metal PM2.5during Diwali. “However, the impact of the fireworks plummets within around 12 hours following Diwali,” reveals Chirag Manchanda, the lead author of this study. The research study published in the journal “Atmospheric Pollution Research” has presented source-apportionment results for highly time-resolved elemental and organic fractions of PM2.5 to address the challenge. “Both stubble burning and increased heating requirements of the region in winters drive the biomass burning activity”, adds Prof Vikram Singh, Department of Chemical Engineering, IIT Delhi, who was one of the investigators. The study concludes by arguing, “The result of this study provides crucial insights into a topic of long-standing debate and concern between air quality experts and policymakers committed to alleviating the extreme air pollution events in the capital of Delhi following Diwali,” said the principal investigator Prof. Mayank Kumar, Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Delhi. This study was partly funded by IIT Delhi and the Ministry of Education, Government of India and conducted as part of a collaborative effort between IIT Delhi, IIT Kanpur, and PRL Ahmedabad. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Biomass burning rather than firecrackers makes Delhi’s air quality poor, says IIT Delhi study

Authorities on Friday advised people to limit outdoor activities and told government and private offices to cut vehicle use by at least 30 per cent as air quality in Delhi-NCR inched towards the emergency level amid a rise in emissions from farm fires and unfavourable meteorological conditions.

Over 4,000 farm fires, accounting for 35 per cent of Delhi's pollution on Friday, played a major role in pushing the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) to 471 by 4 pm, the worst this season so far. It was 411 on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-delhi-reels-under-pollution-students-stay-home-427822">Also Read:&nbsp;New Delhi reels under pollution, students stay home</a>

A sub-committee on Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) said meteorological conditions will be highly unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants till November 18 and agencies concerned must be fully ready to implement measures under "emergency"&nbsp;category.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) said the 24-hour average concentration of lung-damaging fine particles known as PM2.5 in Delhi-NCR crossed the 300 mark around midnight and stood at 381 micrograms per cubic metre at 4 pm on Friday, over six times the safe limit of 60 micrograms per cubic metre.

The PM10 level was recorded at 577 micrograms per cubic metre, over five times the safe limit of 100 micrograms per cubic metre.

According to GRAP, the air quality is considered to be in the 'emergency' category if the PM2.5 and PM10 levels continue to be above 300 micrograms per cubic metre and 500 micrograms per cubic metre respectively for 48 hours or more.

After reviewing the situation, the sub-committee on GRAP said, "Government and private offices and other establishments are advised to reduce vehicle usage by at least 30 per cent (by working from home, carpooling, optimising field activities etc). People are advised to limit outdoor activities and minimise their exposure."

"Concerned agencies must be in complete readiness for implementation of measures under 'emergency' category as per GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan)," an order issued by the committee read.

The GRAP -&nbsp;a set of anti-pollution measures followed in Delhi and its vicinity, according to the severity of the situation comes into force in mid-October when air quality levels start worsening.

The measures to be followed in the 'emergency' situation include stopping the entry of trucks in Delhi, ban on construction activities and introducing the odd-even car rationing scheme.

CPCB Member Secretary Prashant Gargava observed that in view of unfavourable meteorology, stubble burning and poor dispersion resulting in accumulation of pollutants, the coming week is critical regarding Delhi-NCR's air quality.

The CPCB said an action-taken report is received daily from Uttar Pradesh and Haryana Pollution Control Boards but these are awaited from Delhi Pollution Control Committee and Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board.

According to an analysis by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee, people in Delhi breathe the worst air between November 1 and November 15 every year. The city has recorded severe air quality on six of the last eight days after Diwali.

Faridabad (460), Ghaziabad (486), Greater Noida (478), Gurgaon (448) and Noida (488) also recorded severe air quality at 4 pm on Friday.

An AQI between zero 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".

A layer of eye-stinging smog lingering over Delhi-NCR thickened on Friday, giving an orange tint to the sun and lowering visibility to 200 metres at several places in the region.

India Meteorological Department officials said moderate fog and low temperatures in the morning -- a low of 12.6 degrees Celsius on Friday -- and calm winds have been trapping pollutants close to the ground.

"Visibility levels at the Indira Gandhi International Airport and the Safdarjung Airport dropped to 200-500 metres due to moderate fog. It intensified on Friday due to high humidity," an official said.

Green think tank Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) has said the ongoing smog episode is a public health emergency and could be the longest in four years. In another report, it said vehicles accounted for more than 50 per cent of Delhi's pollution from October 24 to November 8.

According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality forecasting agency SAFAR, stubble burning has accounted for at least 25 per cent of Delhi's PM2.5 pollution for nine days on the trot, starting November 4.

Authorities on Friday advised people to limit outdoor activities and told government and private offices to cut vehicle use by at least 30 per cent as air quality in Delhi-NCR inched towards the emergency level amid a rise in emissions from farm fires and unfavourable meteorological conditions.

Authorities on Friday advised people to limit outdoor activities and told government and private offices to cut vehicle use by at least 30 per cent as air quality in Delhi-NCR inched towards the emergency level amid a rise in emissions from farm fires and unfavourable meteorological conditions. Over 4,000 farm fires, accounting for 35 per cent of Delhi's pollution on Friday, played a major role in pushing the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) to 471 by 4 pm, the worst this season so far. It was 411 on Thursday. Also Read: New Delhi reels under pollution, students stay home A sub-committee on Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) said meteorological conditions will be highly unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants till November 18 and agencies concerned must be fully ready to implement measures under "emergency" category. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) said the 24-hour average concentration of lung-damaging fine particles known as PM2.5 in Delhi-NCR crossed the 300 mark around midnight and stood at 381 micrograms per cubic metre at 4 pm on Friday, over six times the safe limit of 60 micrograms per cubic metre. The PM10 level was recorded at 577 micrograms per cubic metre, over five times the safe limit of 100 micrograms per cubic metre. According to GRAP, the air quality is considered to be in the 'emergency' category if the PM2.5 and PM10 levels continue to be above 300 micrograms per cubic metre and 500 micrograms per cubic metre respectively for 48 hours or more. After reviewing the situation, the sub-committee on GRAP said, "Government and private offices and other establishments are advised to reduce vehicle usage by at least 30 per cent (by working from home, carpooling, optimising field activities etc). People are advised to limit outdoor activities and minimise their exposure." "Concerned agencies must be in complete readiness for implementation of measures under 'emergency' category as per GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan)," an order issued by the committee read. The GRAP - a set of anti-pollution measures followed in Delhi and its vicinity, according to the severity of the situation comes into force in mid-October when air quality levels start worsening. The measures to be followed in the 'emergency' situation include stopping the entry of trucks in Delhi, ban on construction activities and introducing the odd-even car rationing scheme. CPCB Member Secretary Prashant Gargava observed that in view of unfavourable meteorology, stubble burning and poor dispersion resulting in accumulation of pollutants, the coming week is critical regarding Delhi-NCR's air quality. The CPCB said an action-taken report is received daily from Uttar Pradesh and Haryana Pollution Control Boards but these are awaited from Delhi Pollution Control Committee and Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board. According to an analysis by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee, people in Delhi breathe the worst air between November 1 and November 15 every year. The city has recorded severe air quality on six of the last eight days after Diwali. Faridabad (460), Ghaziabad (486), Greater Noida (478), Gurgaon (448) and Noida (488) also recorded severe air quality at 4 pm on Friday. An AQI between zero 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". A layer of eye-stinging smog lingering over Delhi-NCR thickened on Friday, giving an orange tint to the sun and lowering visibility to 200 metres at several places in the region. India Meteorological Department officials said moderate fog and low temperatures in the morning -- a low of 12.6 degrees Celsius on Friday -- and calm winds have been trapping pollutants close to the ground. "Visibility levels at the Indira Gandhi International Airport and the Safdarjung Airport dropped to 200-500 metres due to moderate fog. It intensified on Friday due to high humidity," an official said. Green think tank Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) has said the ongoing smog episode is a public health emergency and could be the longest in four years. In another report, it said vehicles accounted for more than 50 per cent of Delhi's pollution from October 24 to November 8. According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality forecasting agency SAFAR, stubble burning has accounted for at least 25 per cent of Delhi's PM2.5 pollution for nine days on the trot, starting November 4.

Get ready to implement emergency measures, says Pollution Control Board as Delhi's air quality worsens

the deteriorating air quality in and around the Indian capital has become a matter of high concern. A layer of eye-stinging smog continues for the 8th day. The govt. has put out an advisory for people living in Delhi NCR regions.

Delhi: Layer of eye-stinging smog continues for 8th day

A thick and heavy acrid smog engulfed the residents of India’s national capital Delhi and surrounding regions on Friday, a day after people blatantly disregarded the government’s ban and burst firecrackers.

Several people complained of itchy throat and watery eyes as a thick layer of smog lingered over the region.

On Friday morning, the air quality entered the ‘hazardous’ category, according to the Ministry Earth Sciences’ SAFAR-India application. &nbsp;On Thursday night, the air quality had entered the severe zone around 8 pm as low temperature and wind speed allowed the accumulation of pollutants.

The concentration of Particulate Matter&nbsp;2.5, which is considered harmful for human health,&nbsp;stood at 774.69 at 3am on Friday. The average AQI for the city touched an alarming 1645 around 1am.

The neighbouring cities of Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Gurgaon and Noida also recording ‘severe’ air quality with crackers burst peaking after 9 pm.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/air-pollution-kills-7-million-people-per-year-estimates-who-issues-new-guidelines-414975">Air pollution kills 7 million people per year, estimates WHO;&nbsp; issues new guidelines</a>

Experts said the air quality turned severe owing to unfavourable meteorological conditions —calm winds, low temperature and low mixing height —and a poisonous cocktail of emissions from firecrackers, stubble burning and local sources.

According to the SAFAR forecasting, the air quality is not likely to improve until Sunday.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-quality-index-india-worlds-second-most-polluted-country-415692">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-quality-index-india-worlds-second-most-polluted-country-415692">Air Quality Index: India world’s second most polluted country</a>

“The improvement would, however, just fluctuate in the `Very Poor` category."The overall air quality of Delhi is plunged into the upper end of very poor category...It will continue to fall now and may enter at the edge of the "very poor" to "severe" category by tonight...," it said.

“If firecrackers are burned even 50 per cent of last year then PM2.5 will enter `severe` category by midnight and shoot up rapidly by today early morning with AQI even crossing 500+,” it added.

The authorities had predicted that pollution levels would shoot up in Delhi with the share of stubble burning in the national capital's pollution rising to 25 per cent on the day of Diwali itself.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A thick and heavy acrid smog engulfed the residents of India’s national capital Delhi and surrounding regions on Friday, a day after people blatantly disregarded the government’s ban and burst firecrackers.

A thick and heavy acrid smog engulfed the residents of India’s national capital Delhi and surrounding regions on Friday, a day after people blatantly disregarded the government’s ban and burst firecrackers. Several people complained of itchy throat and watery eyes as a thick layer of smog lingered over the region. On Friday morning, the air quality entered the ‘hazardous’ category, according to the Ministry Earth Sciences’ SAFAR-India application. On Thursday night, the air quality had entered the severe zone around 8 pm as low temperature and wind speed allowed the accumulation of pollutants. The concentration of Particulate Matter 2.5, which is considered harmful for human health, stood at 774.69 at 3am on Friday. The average AQI for the city touched an alarming 1645 around 1am. The neighbouring cities of Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Gurgaon and Noida also recording ‘severe’ air quality with crackers burst peaking after 9 pm. Also read | Air pollution kills 7 million people per year, estimates WHO; issues new guidelines Experts said the air quality turned severe owing to unfavourable meteorological conditions —calm winds, low temperature and low mixing height —and a poisonous cocktail of emissions from firecrackers, stubble burning and local sources. According to the SAFAR forecasting, the air quality is not likely to improve until Sunday. Also read | Air Quality Index: India world’s second most polluted country “The improvement would, however, just fluctuate in the `Very Poor` category."The overall air quality of Delhi is plunged into the upper end of very poor category...It will continue to fall now and may enter at the edge of the "very poor" to "severe" category by tonight...," it said. “If firecrackers are burned even 50 per cent of last year then PM2.5 will enter `severe` category by midnight and shoot up rapidly by today early morning with AQI even crossing 500+,” it added. The authorities had predicted that pollution levels would shoot up in Delhi with the share of stubble burning in the national capital's pollution rising to 25 per cent on the day of Diwali itself. (With inputs from agencies)

Itchy throats, watery eyes: Post Diwali, air quality turns ‘hazardous’ in India’s national capital Delhi

It's that time of the year when the Indian capital turns to a gas chamber, the air quality has significantly worsened once again. The average air quality index in New Delhi is 315 which falls in the very poor category.

India: Delhi's AQI enters 'very poor' category for the 1st time in this season

National capital`s air quality remained in the severe category for the third consecutive day on Thursday as calm winds and low ventilation halted the dispersion of accumulated pollutants. 
 
Delhi`s air quality index stood at 425 micrograms per cubic meter in severe category at noon. On Wednesday, the air quality index was 433 micrograms per cubic meter and 418 micrograms per cubic meter the previous day. 
 
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), 28 out of 36 pollution monitoring stations in Delhi showed severe air quality index reading. Nehru Nagar, Anand Vihar, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium and R.K. Puram areas of the national capital have the most noxious air, inching towards emergency levels. 
 
The System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), which comes under the aegis of the Ministry of Earth Sciences said the calm wind, cold conditions and low ventilation has halted the dispersion of the accumulated pollutants. 
 
"Surface-level winds are calm and forecasted to pick up and AQI is likely to improve during the day. Better ventilation condition is forecasted for the next two days. Hence, AQI is forecasted to improve to the higher end of the very poor category by 25th December," the weather forecasting agency said. 
 
Delhi`s neighbouring regions -- Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Noida and Greater Noida recorded `severe` quality of air, leaving aside Gurugram which has slightly better AQI at 375 micrograms per cubic meter. Greater Noida and Noida have the most polluted air amongst all at 455 and 447 micrograms per cubic meter. 
 
Nationwide, as many as 12 cities have very poor air quality. Uttar Pradesh`s Greater Noida and Noida top the charts, followed by Faridabad and Delhi. Aizawl city of Mizoram recorded the cleanest air in the country at 27 micrograms per cubic meter. 
 
SAFAR has issued a stringent warning, asking everyone to avoid physical activity outdoors and consult a doctor if they experience unusual coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing, breathing difficulty, or fatigue and wear masks known as N-95 or P-100 respirators. 
&nbsp;

National capital`s air quality remained in the severe category for the third consecutive day on Thursday as calm winds and low ventilation halted the dispersion of accumulated pollutants.

National capital`s air quality remained in the severe category for the third consecutive day on Thursday as calm winds and low ventilation halted the dispersion of accumulated pollutants. Delhi`s air quality index stood at 425 micrograms per cubic meter in severe category at noon. On Wednesday, the air quality index was 433 micrograms per cubic meter and 418 micrograms per cubic meter the previous day. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), 28 out of 36 pollution monitoring stations in Delhi showed severe air quality index reading. Nehru Nagar, Anand Vihar, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium and R.K. Puram areas of the national capital have the most noxious air, inching towards emergency levels. The System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), which comes under the aegis of the Ministry of Earth Sciences said the calm wind, cold conditions and low ventilation has halted the dispersion of the accumulated pollutants. "Surface-level winds are calm and forecasted to pick up and AQI is likely to improve during the day. Better ventilation condition is forecasted for the next two days. Hence, AQI is forecasted to improve to the higher end of the very poor category by 25th December," the weather forecasting agency said. Delhi`s neighbouring regions -- Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Noida and Greater Noida recorded `severe` quality of air, leaving aside Gurugram which has slightly better AQI at 375 micrograms per cubic meter. Greater Noida and Noida have the most polluted air amongst all at 455 and 447 micrograms per cubic meter. Nationwide, as many as 12 cities have very poor air quality. Uttar Pradesh`s Greater Noida and Noida top the charts, followed by Faridabad and Delhi. Aizawl city of Mizoram recorded the cleanest air in the country at 27 micrograms per cubic meter. SAFAR has issued a stringent warning, asking everyone to avoid physical activity outdoors and consult a doctor if they experience unusual coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing, breathing difficulty, or fatigue and wear masks known as N-95 or P-100 respirators.

Delhi's air quality remains severe for third consecutive day

The air quality was recorded in the 'poor' category across Faridabad, Gurgaon, Noida, Greater Noida and Ghaziabad on Sunday, data from a government agency showed.

The presence of pollutants PM 2.5 and PM 10 also remained high in the five immediate neighbours of Delhi, according to the air quality index (AQI) maintained by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

According to the index, an AQI between zero 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 average 24-hour AQI at 4 pm on Sunday was 236 in Faridabad, 242 in Gurgaon, 268 in Noida, 273 in Greater Noida and 300 in Ghaziabad, according to the CPCB's Sameer app.

On Saturday, it was 171 in Faridabad, 204 in Gurgaon, 233 in Noida, 226 in Greater Noida and 240 in Ghaziabad. 
The CPCB states that an AQI in the "poor" category may cause breathing discomfort to most people on prolonged exposure.

The AQI for each city is based on the average value of all stations there. Noida, Faridabad, Ghaziabad have four stations each, while Gurgaon has three and Greater Noida two, according to the app

The air quality was recorded in the 'poor' category across Faridabad, Gurgaon, Noida, Greater Noida and Ghaziabad on Sunday, data from a government agency showed.

The air quality was recorded in the 'poor' category across Faridabad, Gurgaon, Noida, Greater Noida and Ghaziabad on Sunday, data from a government agency showed. The presence of pollutants PM 2.5 and PM 10 also remained high in the five immediate neighbours of Delhi, according to the air quality index (AQI) maintained by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). According to the index, an AQI between zero 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 average 24-hour AQI at 4 pm on Sunday was 236 in Faridabad, 242 in Gurgaon, 268 in Noida, 273 in Greater Noida and 300 in Ghaziabad, according to the CPCB's Sameer app. On Saturday, it was 171 in Faridabad, 204 in Gurgaon, 233 in Noida, 226 in Greater Noida and 240 in Ghaziabad. The CPCB states that an AQI in the "poor" category may cause breathing discomfort to most people on prolonged exposure. The AQI for each city is based on the average value of all stations there. Noida, Faridabad, Ghaziabad have four stations each, while Gurgaon has three and Greater Noida two, according to the app

Air quality remains 'poor' in National Capital Region

As India's capital chokes under smog, we decode how countries across the world are battling air pollution. Watch 'Fighting Air Pollution' on Wion Wideangle.

WION Wideangle: Fighting Air Pollution

Delhi is in a critical situation as coronavirus spread and pollution in the city are on the peak.

Delhi's air quality improves from 'Severe' to 'Very poor'

Delhi woke up to a grey morning as an apocalyptic smog blotted out the sun from the sky and smudged landmarks from view with air quality inching closer to ''emergency''&nbsp;levels on Tuesday.

Air quality monitoring stations at Mandir Marg, Punjabi Bagh, Pusa, Rohini, Patparganj, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Najafgarh, Sri Aurobindo Marg, and Okhla Phase 2 maxed out&nbsp;as air quality indexes hit the 500 mark, Central Pollution Control Board data showed.

The smog reduced the visibility to merely 300 meters in the morning affecting traffic, an official of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/complete-ban-on-crackers-from-midnight-to-nov-30-in-delhi-ncr-341881" hreflang="en">Complete ban on crackers from midnight to Nov 30 in Delhi-NCR</a>

Delhi recorded an AQI of 487 at 9 am, which falls in the ''severe'' category. The neighbouring cities of Faridabad (474), Ghaziabad (476), Noida (490), Greater Noida (467), and Gurugram (469) also recorded ''severe'' air quality.

This is the sixth ''severe'' air day on the trot in Delhi. The city witnessed seven ''severe''&nbsp;air days in November last year.

The levels of PM2.5&nbsp;finer particles that can even enter the bloodstream&nbsp;in Delhi-NCR were 605 g/m3 at 8 am&nbsp;around ten times the safe limit of 60g/m3.

PM10 levels stood at 777 microgram&nbsp;per cubic meter (g/m3) at 8 am,?the highest since November June 14, 2018, when it surged to 847 g/m3, according to CPCB data.?PM10 levels below 100 g/m3 are considered safe in India.

If PM2.5 and PM10 levels are more than 300 g/m3 and 500 g/m3 for over 48 hours, emergency measures such ban on construction activities, entry of trucks, and car rationing scheme can be implemented under the Graded Response Action Plan for Delhi-NCR notified by the Ministry of Environment and Forests in 2017.

Government agencies and experts said calm wind speeds were exacerbating the effect of stubble burning and a ?quick recovery? is not possible unless the number of farm fires reduces drastically.

V K Soni, the head of the IMD's environment research centre, said a major improvement in Delhi-NCR's air quality was highly unlikely in the coming days.

''The air quality is likely to be recorded in the upper end of the ''very poor'' category on Diwali if we discount firecrackers emissions. If people burst crackers, pollution levels can increase to 'severe'' to 'severe plus' category (emergency),''&nbsp;he said.

The National Green Tribunal on Monday imposed a total ban on sale or use of all kinds of firecrackers in the National Capital Region (NCR) from November 9 midnight to November 30 midnight, saying "celebration by crackers is for happiness and not to celebrate deaths and diseases".

The Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, SAFAR, said, ''Low dispersion condition continues in Delhi along with high fire-related intrusion. This has led to the accumulation of pollutants near the surface.'' 
''No quick recovery is expected unless a drastic reduction in fire counts takes place,''&nbsp;it said.

SAFAR said the share of stubble burning in Delhi's PM2.5 pollution was 38 percent on Monday.

According to the IMD, Delhi recorded calm winds and a minimum temperature of 10.8 degrees Celsius on Tuesday morning. Calm winds and low temperatures trap pollutants close to the ground, while favourable wind speed helps in their dispersion.

There was moderate fog in the morning which led to smog. It reduced visibility to 300 meters at the Safdarjung and Palam weather stations, an IMD official said.

The newly-constituted Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas on Monday stressed the need to enforce existing laws, directions and SOPs to minimise air pollution on an emergency basis. It is expected to review the situation on Tuesday.

Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai said action will be taken against those not complying with the ban on firecrackers under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act which included a jail term of up to six years.

Delhi woke up to a grey morning as an apocalyptic smog blotted out the sun from the sky and smudged landmarks from view with air quality inching closer to ''emergency'' levels on Tuesday.

Delhi woke up to a grey morning as an apocalyptic smog blotted out the sun from the sky and smudged landmarks from view with air quality inching closer to ''emergency'' levels on Tuesday. Air quality monitoring stations at Mandir Marg, Punjabi Bagh, Pusa, Rohini, Patparganj, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Najafgarh, Sri Aurobindo Marg, and Okhla Phase 2 maxed out as air quality indexes hit the 500 mark, Central Pollution Control Board data showed. The smog reduced the visibility to merely 300 meters in the morning affecting traffic, an official of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said. Also read: Complete ban on crackers from midnight to Nov 30 in Delhi-NCR Delhi recorded an AQI of 487 at 9 am, which falls in the ''severe'' category. The neighbouring cities of Faridabad (474), Ghaziabad (476), Noida (490), Greater Noida (467), and Gurugram (469) also recorded ''severe'' air quality. This is the sixth ''severe'' air day on the trot in Delhi. The city witnessed seven ''severe'' air days in November last year. The levels of PM2.5 finer particles that can even enter the bloodstream in Delhi-NCR were 605 g/m3 at 8 am around ten times the safe limit of 60g/m3. PM10 levels stood at 777 microgram per cubic meter (g/m3) at 8 am,?the highest since November June 14, 2018, when it surged to 847 g/m3, according to CPCB data.?PM10 levels below 100 g/m3 are considered safe in India. If PM2.5 and PM10 levels are more than 300 g/m3 and 500 g/m3 for over 48 hours, emergency measures such ban on construction activities, entry of trucks, and car rationing scheme can be implemented under the Graded Response Action Plan for Delhi-NCR notified by the Ministry of Environment and Forests in 2017. Government agencies and experts said calm wind speeds were exacerbating the effect of stubble burning and a ?quick recovery? is not possible unless the number of farm fires reduces drastically. V K Soni, the head of the IMD's environment research centre, said a major improvement in Delhi-NCR's air quality was highly unlikely in the coming days. ''The air quality is likely to be recorded in the upper end of the ''very poor'' category on Diwali if we discount firecrackers emissions. If people burst crackers, pollution levels can increase to 'severe'' to 'severe plus' category (emergency),'' he said. The National Green Tribunal on Monday imposed a total ban on sale or use of all kinds of firecrackers in the National Capital Region (NCR) from November 9 midnight to November 30 midnight, saying "celebration by crackers is for happiness and not to celebrate deaths and diseases". The Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, SAFAR, said, ''Low dispersion condition continues in Delhi along with high fire-related intrusion. This has led to the accumulation of pollutants near the surface.'' ''No quick recovery is expected unless a drastic reduction in fire counts takes place,'' it said. SAFAR said the share of stubble burning in Delhi's PM2.5 pollution was 38 percent on Monday. According to the IMD, Delhi recorded calm winds and a minimum temperature of 10.8 degrees Celsius on Tuesday morning. Calm winds and low temperatures trap pollutants close to the ground, while favourable wind speed helps in their dispersion. There was moderate fog in the morning which led to smog. It reduced visibility to 300 meters at the Safdarjung and Palam weather stations, an IMD official said. The newly-constituted Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas on Monday stressed the need to enforce existing laws, directions and SOPs to minimise air pollution on an emergency basis. It is expected to review the situation on Tuesday. Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai said action will be taken against those not complying with the ban on firecrackers under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act which included a jail term of up to six years.

Delhi-NCR's air quality on brink of 'emergency'

Meanwhile, the twin factors of rising air pollution and a surge in Covid cases have increased the burden on Delhi’s hospitals with the number of vacant beds shrinking fast and out patient departments

India Coronavirus: Delhi's daily surge in cases continues to breach 7,000 mark

A steady stream of patients is coming out of New Delhi's brownish atmosphere for treatment at the Breathe Better clinic, where lung specialist Davinder Kundra is confronting what he calls the "double whammy" of deadly smog and the coronavirus.

Kundra is among a growing number of doctors who are worried as the capital's notorious air again hits peak pollution levels while a new pandemic wave is battering hospitals.

Every winter pollution season, demand for beds spikes in the world's most polluted capital because of an increase in lung diseases and chronic bronchitis.

Now the coronavirus has come back after a lull, new cases reaching a record 7,000 a day. Some official predictions say the figure could soon exceed 12,000.

India already has the world's second-highest number of cases -- 8.5 million -- behind the United States.

With studies strongly linking air pollution to increased coronavirus deaths, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said the intense annual smog from farm fires, cars and industry was worsening the pandemic crisis.

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As he fretted over the x-ray of one pneumonia patient, Kundra said he spots at least one coronavirus suspect a day in his small clinic and orders them to get tested.

"Tiny microscopic pollutants act as carriers for the virus and go deep into the lungs. So Delhi is facing a double whammy because of pollution and coronavirus cases," he said.

"Patients who have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and are exposed to increased pollution are prone to have more severe forms of the infection."

Smog guns

With more residents on the streets ahead of India's main holiday, Diwali -- the festival of light -- on Saturday, doctors fear dark days ahead for the city of 20 million people.

Kejriwal has banned Diwali firecrackers and launched legal action to get private hospitals to set aside more beds for Covid-19 patients.

The city has deployed smog guns, which blast out clouds of water intended to bring pollution particles to the ground.

But environmental activists such as Vimlendu Jha say the authorities are not serious about the problem, and have demanded suspensions on construction and even some power stations.

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Every winter, Delhi residents carefully scan pollution indexes, which measure tiny but deadly PM 2.5 particles, up to 2.5 microns in width.

A Harvard University study released last month said an increase of just one micron per cubic metre of PM 2.5 causes an 11 percent jump in Covid-19 mortality.

Other studies indicate the problem is particularly bad for poorer people -- such as slum dwellers -- who tend to live nearer pollution sources.

With no respite in sight, Delhi doctors have little choice but to recommend face masks and air purifiers at home, though few in slums can afford such luxuries.

Navjot Kaur, who had started riding her scooter to her job as a lab technician to avoid public transport and the risk of Covid-19, said taking to two wheels had left her exposed to the smog: "Now I get off and my eyes sting, I have to splash water on them."

"The pollution has come quicker this year and seems worse,” she said.

Other Delhi inhabitants such as software engineer Naveen Malhotra, who suffers from a respiratory condition, want to leave the city altogether because "coronavirus attacks the lungs".

He said: "I am just waiting for an opportunity to shift to a place where there is less pollution."

A steady stream of patients is coming out of New Delhi's brownish atmosphere for treatment at the Breathe Better clinic, where lung specialist Davinder Kundra is confronting what he calls the "double whammy" of deadly smog and the coronavirus.

A steady stream of patients is coming out of New Delhi's brownish atmosphere for treatment at the Breathe Better clinic, where lung specialist Davinder Kundra is confronting what he calls the "double whammy" of deadly smog and the coronavirus. Kundra is among a growing number of doctors who are worried as the capital's notorious air again hits peak pollution levels while a new pandemic wave is battering hospitals. Every winter pollution season, demand for beds spikes in the world's most polluted capital because of an increase in lung diseases and chronic bronchitis. Now the coronavirus has come back after a lull, new cases reaching a record 7,000 a day. Some official predictions say the figure could soon exceed 12,000. India already has the world's second-highest number of cases -- 8.5 million -- behind the United States. With studies strongly linking air pollution to increased coronavirus deaths, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said the intense annual smog from farm fires, cars and industry was worsening the pandemic crisis. Also read| ISRO launches PSLV-C49 earth imaging satellite into space As he fretted over the x-ray of one pneumonia patient, Kundra said he spots at least one coronavirus suspect a day in his small clinic and orders them to get tested. "Tiny microscopic pollutants act as carriers for the virus and go deep into the lungs. So Delhi is facing a double whammy because of pollution and coronavirus cases," he said. "Patients who have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and are exposed to increased pollution are prone to have more severe forms of the infection." Smog guns With more residents on the streets ahead of India's main holiday, Diwali -- the festival of light -- on Saturday, doctors fear dark days ahead for the city of 20 million people. Kejriwal has banned Diwali firecrackers and launched legal action to get private hospitals to set aside more beds for Covid-19 patients. The city has deployed smog guns, which blast out clouds of water intended to bring pollution particles to the ground. But environmental activists such as Vimlendu Jha say the authorities are not serious about the problem, and have demanded suspensions on construction and even some power stations. Also read| COVID-19: India records 50,356 cases; recovery rate stands at 92.41% Every winter, Delhi residents carefully scan pollution indexes, which measure tiny but deadly PM 2.5 particles, up to 2.5 microns in width. A Harvard University study released last month said an increase of just one micron per cubic metre of PM 2.5 causes an 11 percent jump in Covid-19 mortality. Other studies indicate the problem is particularly bad for poorer people -- such as slum dwellers -- who tend to live nearer pollution sources. With no respite in sight, Delhi doctors have little choice but to recommend face masks and air purifiers at home, though few in slums can afford such luxuries. Navjot Kaur, who had started riding her scooter to her job as a lab technician to avoid public transport and the risk of Covid-19, said taking to two wheels had left her exposed to the smog: "Now I get off and my eyes sting, I have to splash water on them." "The pollution has come quicker this year and seems worse,” she said. Other Delhi inhabitants such as software engineer Naveen Malhotra, who suffers from a respiratory condition, want to leave the city altogether because "coronavirus attacks the lungs". He said: "I am just waiting for an opportunity to shift to a place where there is less pollution."

Delhi fears the worst amid smog cloud and coronavirus wave

The national capital's air quality was recorded in the "severe" category on Saturday morning as farmers in Punjab and nearby regions continued to set their fields on fire to clear crop residue.

The central government's Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi said the city's air quality is likely to remain "severe" on Diwali as well.

Experts said while meteorological conditions were "moderately" favourable for dispersion of pollutants, a "very high" number of farm fires in Punjab was the primary reason for "severe" air quality.

According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, SAFAR, Delhi's overall air quality index (AQI) was 443 this morning.

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An AQI between zero 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".

PM10 levels in Delhi-NCR stood at 486 microgram per cubic meter (g/m3) at 9 am, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data.

PM10 is particulate matter with a diameter of 10 micrometers and inhaled into the lungs. These particles include dust, pollen and mold spores. PM10 levels below 100 ?g/m3 are considered safe in India.

The levels of PM2.5 — finer particles which can even enter the bloodstream — were 292 g/m3 at 9 am. PM2.5 levels up to 60 g/m3 are considered safe.

Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi said the number of farm fires in Punjab remains very high (around 4,000) which is likely to impact the air quality in Delhi-NCR and other parts of northwest India.

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It said the AQI is likely to remain in the "upper end of 'very poor' category on November 13 and 'severe' category on November 14 (Diwali)".

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the maximum wind speed was 14 kilometres per hour on Friday and the minimum temperature 11.8 degrees Celsius.

Calm winds and low temperatures trap pollutants close to the ground, while favourable wind speed helps in their dispersion.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2000-farmers-booked-for-stubble-burning-in-up-341001" hreflang="en">2,000 farmers booked for stubble burning in UP</a>

V K Soni, head of IMD's environment monitoring research centre, said, "A very large number of farm fires over Punjab is the primary reason for the severe air quality in the region."

SAFAR said the share of stubble burning in Delhi's PM2.5 pollution was estimated at 21 per cent on Friday. It was 42 per cent on Thursday, the maximum so far this season.

Last year, the contribution of stubble burning to Delhi's pollution had peaked to 44 per cent on November 1, according to SAFAR data.

The national capital's air quality was recorded in the "severe" category on Saturday morning as farmers in Punjab and nearby regions continued to set their fields on fire to clear crop residue.

The national capital's air quality was recorded in the "severe" category on Saturday morning as farmers in Punjab and nearby regions continued to set their fields on fire to clear crop residue. The central government's Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi said the city's air quality is likely to remain "severe" on Diwali as well. Experts said while meteorological conditions were "moderately" favourable for dispersion of pollutants, a "very high" number of farm fires in Punjab was the primary reason for "severe" air quality. According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, SAFAR, Delhi's overall air quality index (AQI) was 443 this morning. Also read| Indian govt relaxes IT sector guidelines to facilitate 'work from home' An AQI between zero 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". PM10 levels in Delhi-NCR stood at 486 microgram per cubic meter (g/m3) at 9 am, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. PM10 is particulate matter with a diameter of 10 micrometers and inhaled into the lungs. These particles include dust, pollen and mold spores. PM10 levels below 100 ?g/m3 are considered safe in India. The levels of PM2.5 — finer particles which can even enter the bloodstream — were 292 g/m3 at 9 am. PM2.5 levels up to 60 g/m3 are considered safe. Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi said the number of farm fires in Punjab remains very high (around 4,000) which is likely to impact the air quality in Delhi-NCR and other parts of northwest India. Also read| India to reopen universities at 50% capacity; UGC issues guidelines It said the AQI is likely to remain in the "upper end of 'very poor' category on November 13 and 'severe' category on November 14 (Diwali)". According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the maximum wind speed was 14 kilometres per hour on Friday and the minimum temperature 11.8 degrees Celsius. Calm winds and low temperatures trap pollutants close to the ground, while favourable wind speed helps in their dispersion. Also read| 2,000 farmers booked for stubble burning in UP V K Soni, head of IMD's environment monitoring research centre, said, "A very large number of farm fires over Punjab is the primary reason for the severe air quality in the region." SAFAR said the share of stubble burning in Delhi's PM2.5 pollution was estimated at 21 per cent on Friday. It was 42 per cent on Thursday, the maximum so far this season. Last year, the contribution of stubble burning to Delhi's pollution had peaked to 44 per cent on November 1, according to SAFAR data.

Delhi's air quality 'severe', likely to remain so on Diwali

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that high wind speed has helped keep the situation in the city and nearby regions from deteriorating, though the city continues to choke.

New Delhi's air quality touches 'severe' levels

Delhi residents did not get any respite from air quality even on Monday as the air quality of the national capital in the early hours was again in the "very poor" category.&nbsp;

People of Delhi complained of difficulty in breathing as they went out for exercising on Monday amid the haze. &nbsp;

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"The pollution is becoming hazardous," said Mukul Diwan, a local, as quoted by news agency Reuters.&nbsp;

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Delhi's air quality index (AQI) was 343 at 10 am on Monday, which comes under the category of "very poor".&nbsp;

SAFAR, the Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, said the direction and speed of the wind are favourable for the transport of the pollutants from farm fires in Haryana, Punjab, and other regions adjacent to Delhi.

For the last few years with the arrival of winter, Delhi and other northern Indian regions witness a sharp drop in air quality majorly due to stubble burning, which is done to do away farm residues.&nbsp;

Also, the cold weather let the pollutants hang in the air due to which air pollution rises.&nbsp;

Delhi is already battling a coronavirus crisis and the pollution can worsen the situation as the deadly virus confronts the respiratory system.&nbsp;

A few weeks ago, a report by a central government institute said that Delhi could see 15,000 Covid-19 cases per day in the upcoming winter season.&nbsp;

Delhi residents did not get any respite from air quality even on Monday as the air quality of the national capital in the early hours was again in the "very poor" category.

Delhi residents did not get any respite from air quality even on Monday as the air quality of the national capital in the early hours was again in the "very poor" category. People of Delhi complained of difficulty in breathing as they went out for exercising on Monday amid the haze. Also read | India: Coronavirus infections near 80 million; daily death toll lowest in three months "The pollution is becoming hazardous," said Mukul Diwan, a local, as quoted by news agency Reuters. Also read | US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo arrives in New Delhi Delhi's air quality index (AQI) was 343 at 10 am on Monday, which comes under the category of "very poor". SAFAR, the Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, said the direction and speed of the wind are favourable for the transport of the pollutants from farm fires in Haryana, Punjab, and other regions adjacent to Delhi. For the last few years with the arrival of winter, Delhi and other northern Indian regions witness a sharp drop in air quality majorly due to stubble burning, which is done to do away farm residues. Also, the cold weather let the pollutants hang in the air due to which air pollution rises. Delhi is already battling a coronavirus crisis and the pollution can worsen the situation as the deadly virus confronts the respiratory system. A few weeks ago, a report by a central government institute said that Delhi could see 15,000 Covid-19 cases per day in the upcoming winter season.

'Very poor' air continues to trouble Delhi residents

The national capital's air quality was in the very poor category on Tuesday morning, the first time this season, with calm winds and low temperatures allowing accumulation of pollutants.

According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences'Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, an increase in farm fires in Punjab, Haryana and neighbouring regions of Pakistan is also going to impact the air quality in Delhi-NCR.

The city recorded an air quality index (AQI) of 304 at 9:30 am, which falls in the 'very poor'&nbsp;category. The 24-hour average AQI was 261 on Monday, the worst since February. It was 216 on Sunday and 221 on Saturday.

Wazirpur (AQI 380), Vivek Vihar (AQI 355) and Jahangirpuri (AQI 349) recorded the highest pollution levels.

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'.

A senior scientist at the Delhi Pollution Control Committee said the dip in the air quality can be attributed to low wind speed and temperatures which allowed accumulation of pollutants.

''Stubble burning has also increased in neighbouring states. Also, the ventilation index is low,''&nbsp;he said.

Ventilation index is the speed at which pollutants can get dispersed. A ventilation index lower than 6000 sqm/second, with average wind speed less than 10 kmph, is unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants.

PM10 levels in Delhi-NCR stood at 300 microgram per cubic meter (g/m3) at 9 am -- the highest this season so far, according to CPCB data. PM10 levels below 100 ?g/m3 are considered safe in India.

PM10 is particulate matter with a diameter of 10 micrometers and is inhalable into the lungs. These particles include dust, pollen and mold spores.?

The levels of PM2.5 ? finer particles which can even enter the bloodstream&nbsp;were 129 g/m3. PM2.5 levels up to 60 ?g/m3 are considered safe.

NASA's satellite imagery showed a large cluster of fires near Amritsar and Firozpur in Punjab and Patiala, Ambala and Kaithal in Haryana.

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research, farm fires contributed 3 percent particulate matter to Delhi's PM2.5 concentration on Monday.

It is likely to be 'negligible? for the next two days due to a change in the?wind direction from northwesterly to southeasterly, the government agency said.

On Tuesday morning, the maximum wind speed was 4 kilometers per hour, according to the India Meteorological Department.

Low temperatures and stagnant winds help in accumulation of pollutants near the ground, affecting air&nbsp;quality.

With Delhi-NCR bracing for months of poor air&nbsp;quality, experts have warned that high levels of air pollution can aggravate the COVID-19 pandemic.

Severe airpollution in Delhi is a year-round problem, which can be attributed to unfavourable meteorological conditions, farm fires in neighbouring regions and local sources of pollution.

According to an analysis by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water, a Delhi-based think tank, transportation contributes the most -- 18 to 39 percent -- to Delhi's air pollution.

Road dust is the second largest source of?air?pollution in the city (18 to 38 percent), followed by industries (2 to 29 percent), thermal power plants (3 to 11 percent) and construction (8 percent).

This year, the Delhi government has launched a massive anti-air pollution campaign 'Yuddh Pradushan Ke Viruddh' which is being led by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Environment Minister Gopal Rai.

A 'green war room'&nbsp;with a 10-member expert team has been set up at the Delhi Secretariat to monitor the steps being taken to deal with high levels of air pollution in winters.

The environment department has also taken stern action against project proponents at large construction and demolition sites flouting dust control norms.

The government will also start the spraying of 'Pusa bio-decomposer'&nbsp;solution in non-basmati rice fields in the national capital, on Tuesday.

The solution, experts say, can turn the stubble into manure in 15 to 20 days and therefore, can prevent stubble burning.

Starting October 15, stricter measures to fight air&nbsp;pollution will also come into force in Delhi and its neighbourhood as part of the Graded Response Action Plan, which was first implemented in Delhi-NCR in 2017.

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

The national capital's air quality was in the very poor category on Tuesday morning, the first time this season, with calm winds and low temperatures allowing accumulation of pollutants. According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences'Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, an increase in farm fires in Punjab, Haryana and neighbouring regions of Pakistan is also going to impact the air quality in Delhi-NCR. The city recorded an air quality index (AQI) of 304 at 9:30 am, which falls in the 'very poor' category. The 24-hour average AQI was 261 on Monday, the worst since February. It was 216 on Sunday and 221 on Saturday. Wazirpur (AQI 380), Vivek Vihar (AQI 355) and Jahangirpuri (AQI 349) recorded the highest pollution levels. 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'. A senior scientist at the Delhi Pollution Control Committee said the dip in the air quality can be attributed to low wind speed and temperatures which allowed accumulation of pollutants. ''Stubble burning has also increased in neighbouring states. Also, the ventilation index is low,'' he said. Ventilation index is the speed at which pollutants can get dispersed. A ventilation index lower than 6000 sqm/second, with average wind speed less than 10 kmph, is unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants. PM10 levels in Delhi-NCR stood at 300 microgram per cubic meter (g/m3) at 9 am -- the highest this season so far, according to CPCB data. PM10 levels below 100 ?g/m3 are considered safe in India. PM10 is particulate matter with a diameter of 10 micrometers and is inhalable into the lungs. These particles include dust, pollen and mold spores.? The levels of PM2.5 ? finer particles which can even enter the bloodstream were 129 g/m3. PM2.5 levels up to 60 ?g/m3 are considered safe. NASA's satellite imagery showed a large cluster of fires near Amritsar and Firozpur in Punjab and Patiala, Ambala and Kaithal in Haryana. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research, farm fires contributed 3 percent particulate matter to Delhi's PM2.5 concentration on Monday. It is likely to be 'negligible? for the next two days due to a change in the?wind direction from northwesterly to southeasterly, the government agency said. On Tuesday morning, the maximum wind speed was 4 kilometers per hour, according to the India Meteorological Department. Low temperatures and stagnant winds help in accumulation of pollutants near the ground, affecting air quality. With Delhi-NCR bracing for months of poor air quality, experts have warned that high levels of air pollution can aggravate the COVID-19 pandemic. Severe airpollution in Delhi is a year-round problem, which can be attributed to unfavourable meteorological conditions, farm fires in neighbouring regions and local sources of pollution. According to an analysis by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water, a Delhi-based think tank, transportation contributes the most -- 18 to 39 percent -- to Delhi's air pollution. Road dust is the second largest source of?air?pollution in the city (18 to 38 percent), followed by industries (2 to 29 percent), thermal power plants (3 to 11 percent) and construction (8 percent). This year, the Delhi government has launched a massive anti-air pollution campaign 'Yuddh Pradushan Ke Viruddh' which is being led by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Environment Minister Gopal Rai. A 'green war room' with a 10-member expert team has been set up at the Delhi Secretariat to monitor the steps being taken to deal with high levels of air pollution in winters. The environment department has also taken stern action against project proponents at large construction and demolition sites flouting dust control norms. The government will also start the spraying of 'Pusa bio-decomposer' solution in non-basmati rice fields in the national capital, on Tuesday. The solution, experts say, can turn the stubble into manure in 15 to 20 days and therefore, can prevent stubble burning. Starting October 15, stricter measures to fight air pollution will also come into force in Delhi and its neighbourhood as part of the Graded Response Action Plan, which was first implemented in Delhi-NCR in 2017.

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

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said he was "grateful" to the Centre for peripheral expressways that helped in bringing down pollution levels in Delhi.

Speaking at an event here, the chief minister said over 40 thousand trucks, a contributor to the pollution, did not enter the national capital as they took the Eastern and Western Peripheral Expressways.

"We are grateful to the Central government for the Eastern and Western Peripheral Expressway. This measure has stopped 30 to 40 thousand trucks from entering Delhi," he said while discussing ideas on curbing pollution levels in Delhi.

The chief minister also said that saplings plantation and industries'&nbsp;move to use non-polluting PNG fuel have contributed to reducing pollutions levels in the national capital.

"However, it needs to reduce more," he said. Kejriwal stressed on the need to check on local sources of pollution. "Delhi has local sources of pollution. We are worried about people's health. Stubble burning mostly starts from October 15 and we have no control over it," he said.

He said that state and Central governments&nbsp;are yet to fully know about the sources of pollution. "Nobody knows what (source) the problem is-- neither the state nor the Centre," he added.

The Delhi government has recently launched a project called Real-time source apportionment jointly with the Department of Energy, Environment and Chemical Engineering, University of Washington to study the sources of pollution in Delhi.

A laboratory will set for this purpose which would give real-time data every four hours throughout the day from April 1, 2020.&nbsp;

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said he was "grateful" to the Centre for peripheral expressways that helped in bringing down pollution levels in Delhi. Speaking at an event here, the chief minister said over 40 thousand trucks, a contributor to the pollution, did not enter the national capital as they took the Eastern and Western Peripheral Expressways.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said he was "grateful" to the Centre for peripheral expressways that helped in bringing down pollution levels in Delhi. Speaking at an event here, the chief minister said over 40 thousand trucks, a contributor to the pollution, did not enter the national capital as they took the Eastern and Western Peripheral Expressways. "We are grateful to the Central government for the Eastern and Western Peripheral Expressway. This measure has stopped 30 to 40 thousand trucks from entering Delhi," he said while discussing ideas on curbing pollution levels in Delhi. The chief minister also said that saplings plantation and industries' move to use non-polluting PNG fuel have contributed to reducing pollutions levels in the national capital. "However, it needs to reduce more," he said. Kejriwal stressed on the need to check on local sources of pollution. "Delhi has local sources of pollution. We are worried about people's health. Stubble burning mostly starts from October 15 and we have no control over it," he said. He said that state and Central governments are yet to fully know about the sources of pollution. "Nobody knows what (source) the problem is-- neither the state nor the Centre," he added. The Delhi government has recently launched a project called Real-time source apportionment jointly with the Department of Energy, Environment and Chemical Engineering, University of Washington to study the sources of pollution in Delhi. A laboratory will set for this purpose which would give real-time data every four hours throughout the day from April 1, 2020.

Arvind Kejriwal praises Centre for developing peripheral expressways to curb pollution

Heavy rains and thunderstorms on Thursday in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-reels-under-bouts-of-air-pollution-as-aqi-crosses-350-mark-267343">national capital </a>made slight improvements in the pollution levels as the air quality was hovering at the 'poor' category on Friday.&nbsp;

The air quality index (AQI) recorded at 9:00 am in some of the areas in Delhi NCR stood at: 317, 301, 294, 352, 342 in Anand Vihar, ITO, RK Puram, Dwarka Sector 8 and Lodhi Road respectively as per the data shared by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).&nbsp;

An AQI of 0-50 is considered as 'good', 51-100 'satisfactory', 101-200 'moderate', 201-300 'poor', 301-400 'very poor', and 401-500 'severe'. Once the AQI crosses the 500-mark, it falls under 'very severe' or 'emergency' category.&nbsp;

As per the central government-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the air quality may improve to ‘poor’ to ‘moderate’ on Saturday.

However, the improvement might not make a big impact as temperatures are expected to drop down on December 15-16, which can create dense fog and lead to a rise in pollution levels.&nbsp;

From the last few days, the situation of air quality worsened and was hovering between 'severe' and 'very poor' in the national capital region as temperatures started to decline.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Heavy rains and thunderstorms on Thursday in the national capital made slight improvements in the pollution levels as the air quality was hovering at the 'poor' category on Friday.

Heavy rains and thunderstorms on Thursday in the national capital made slight improvements in the pollution levels as the air quality was hovering at the 'poor' category on Friday. The air quality index (AQI) recorded at 9:00 am in some of the areas in Delhi NCR stood at: 317, 301, 294, 352, 342 in Anand Vihar, ITO, RK Puram, Dwarka Sector 8 and Lodhi Road respectively as per the data shared by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). An AQI of 0-50 is considered as 'good', 51-100 'satisfactory', 101-200 'moderate', 201-300 'poor', 301-400 'very poor', and 401-500 'severe'. Once the AQI crosses the 500-mark, it falls under 'very severe' or 'emergency' category. As per the central government-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the air quality may improve to ‘poor’ to ‘moderate’ on Saturday. However, the improvement might not make a big impact as temperatures are expected to drop down on December 15-16, which can create dense fog and lead to a rise in pollution levels. From the last few days, the situation of air quality worsened and was hovering between 'severe' and 'very poor' in the national capital region as temperatures started to decline.

Delhi air quality improves to 'poor' following rains and thunderstorms

The national capital continues to reel under noxious air after a brief relief from the <a href="On Tuesday morning, the air quality index docked at 352 with PM2.5 at 188 and PM10 306, said System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). ">poor air quality</a> during the last week.

On Tuesday morning, the air quality index docked at 352 with PM2.5 at 188 and PM10 306, said System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

At 9 in the morning, the AQI at Dhirpur, Delhi University and Chandni Chowk was at 363, 357 and 377 respectively. At the city`s major junction such as IIT Delhi, Pusa Road and Mathura Road, the AQI was recorded at 328, 333 and 336, respectively.

Today, the minimum and maximum temperature of Delhi will hover around 8 degrees Celsius and 23 degrees Celsius with the humidity at 50 per cent. A shallow fog will envelop the region throughout the day.

The AQI is expected to improve from December 12 due to the prevalence of the western disturbance."Under the influence of approaching western disturbance, increased wind speed and scattered rainfall is expected by the evening of 12th December, improvement in AQI is expecting," stated SAFAR in its advisory.

Also Watch:&nbsp;How Pollution is taking a toll on the GDP

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Even in the capital`s adjoining area Ghaziabad, the AQI was hovering around 400 marks. The residents` complaint of breathlessness and eye irritation while moving outdoors.&nbsp;

The top court had on Monday lifted the ban on construction activities partially in Delhi-NCR to contain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-chokes-again-as-aqi-level-deteriorates-265878">air pollution levels</a>.

The judicature had imposed a moratorium on all construction and demolition activities in light of the deteriorating air quality from the past couple of weeks in the region.

The Center-run SAFAR has advised people residing in the national capital and its adjoining areas to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion."Take more breaks and do less intense activities. Asthmatics, keep medicine ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. Heart patients, see a doctor if you get palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue," it said in an advisory.&nbsp;

The national capital continues to reel under noxious air after a brief relief from the poor air quality during the last week. On Tuesday morning, the air quality index docked at 352 with PM2.

The national capital continues to reel under noxious air after a brief relief from the poor air quality during the last week. On Tuesday morning, the air quality index docked at 352 with PM2.5 at 188 and PM10 306, said System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). At 9 in the morning, the AQI at Dhirpur, Delhi University and Chandni Chowk was at 363, 357 and 377 respectively. At the city`s major junction such as IIT Delhi, Pusa Road and Mathura Road, the AQI was recorded at 328, 333 and 336, respectively. Today, the minimum and maximum temperature of Delhi will hover around 8 degrees Celsius and 23 degrees Celsius with the humidity at 50 per cent. A shallow fog will envelop the region throughout the day. The AQI is expected to improve from December 12 due to the prevalence of the western disturbance."Under the influence of approaching western disturbance, increased wind speed and scattered rainfall is expected by the evening of 12th December, improvement in AQI is expecting," stated SAFAR in its advisory. Also Watch: How Pollution is taking a toll on the GDP × Even in the capital`s adjoining area Ghaziabad, the AQI was hovering around 400 marks. The residents` complaint of breathlessness and eye irritation while moving outdoors. The top court had on Monday lifted the ban on construction activities partially in Delhi-NCR to contain air pollution levels. The judicature had imposed a moratorium on all construction and demolition activities in light of the deteriorating air quality from the past couple of weeks in the region. The Center-run SAFAR has advised people residing in the national capital and its adjoining areas to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion."Take more breaks and do less intense activities. Asthmatics, keep medicine ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. Heart patients, see a doctor if you get palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue," it said in an advisory.

Delhi reels under bouts of air pollution as AQI crosses 350 mark

The air quality of the national capital remained very poor for the second consecutive way with the overall Air Quality Index docking at 388 with PM2.5 at 234 and PM10 359.

According to SAFAR, the rise in air pollution is because of the prevalence of calm surface winds and a decrease in ventilation coefficient which creates a conducive environment for pollutant accumulation.

An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe/hazardous.

The AQI was 399 in Dhirpur at 9 am and it dipped to 'severe'&nbsp;category at 415 in Mathura Road area.

The AQI near Pusa, Airport Terminal 3 and Delhi University stood at 354, 391 and 389 respectively.

However, in Pune, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad, the air quality remained in the moderate category with the AQI at 115, 131 and 105 respectively.

Today, the minimum and maximum temperature of Delhi will hover around 7 degrees Celsius and 23 degrees Celsius with the humidity at 46 per cent.

A shallow fog will envelop the region throughout the day.

The Center-run SAFAR has advised people residing in the national capital to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion.

"Take more breaks and do less intense activities. Asthmatics, keep medicine ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. Heart patients, see a doctor if you get palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue," it said in an advisory.&nbsp;

The air quality of the national capital remained very poor for the second consecutive way with the overall Air Quality Index docking at 388 with PM2.5 at 234 and PM10 359.

The air quality of the national capital remained very poor for the second consecutive way with the overall Air Quality Index docking at 388 with PM2.5 at 234 and PM10 359. According to SAFAR, the rise in air pollution is because of the prevalence of calm surface winds and a decrease in ventilation coefficient which creates a conducive environment for pollutant accumulation. An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe/hazardous. The AQI was 399 in Dhirpur at 9 am and it dipped to 'severe' category at 415 in Mathura Road area. The AQI near Pusa, Airport Terminal 3 and Delhi University stood at 354, 391 and 389 respectively. However, in Pune, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad, the air quality remained in the moderate category with the AQI at 115, 131 and 105 respectively. Today, the minimum and maximum temperature of Delhi will hover around 7 degrees Celsius and 23 degrees Celsius with the humidity at 46 per cent. A shallow fog will envelop the region throughout the day. The Center-run SAFAR has advised people residing in the national capital to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion. "Take more breaks and do less intense activities. Asthmatics, keep medicine ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. Heart patients, see a doctor if you get palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue," it said in an advisory.

Delhi: Air quality in 'very poor' category for second consecutive day

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-air-quality-remains-in-poor-category-aqi-likely-to-deteriorate-tomorrow-265679">air quality of Delhi</a> has again deteriorated from the `moderate` category on Tuesday, as per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

At several major junctions of the city, the Air Quality Index (AQI) oscillated between `poor` and `very poor` category.

At Anand Vihar, the AQI was at 306 with PM 2.5 at 306 and PM10 at 269. In Ashok Vihar, the level of air pollution was high as the AQI was recorded at 309 at 9:30 in the morning.

While in areas such as Mandir Marg, ITO and Lodhi road, the AQI was 271, 281 and 212.

Even in Adjoining areas of the capital, the AQI also plunged making tuff for residents to move outdoors with Gurugram (245), Faridabad (240), Noida (238) and Ghaziabad (347).

The air quality of Delhi has again deteriorated from the `moderate` category on Tuesday, as per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). At several major junctions of the city, the Air Quality Index (AQI) oscillated between `poor` and `very poor` category.

The air quality of Delhi has again deteriorated from the `moderate` category on Tuesday, as per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). At several major junctions of the city, the Air Quality Index (AQI) oscillated between `poor` and `very poor` category. At Anand Vihar, the AQI was at 306 with PM 2.5 at 306 and PM10 at 269. In Ashok Vihar, the level of air pollution was high as the AQI was recorded at 309 at 9:30 in the morning. While in areas such as Mandir Marg, ITO and Lodhi road, the AQI was 271, 281 and 212. Even in Adjoining areas of the capital, the AQI also plunged making tuff for residents to move outdoors with Gurugram (245), Faridabad (240), Noida (238) and Ghaziabad (347).

Delhi chokes again as AQI level deteriorates

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-quality-in-delhi-moderate-slight-deterioration-today-265370">air quality in Delhi</a> remained in the `poor` category on Monday morning, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) likely to deteriorate marginally tomorrow, as per the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

The overall AQI of the national capital was 266, in the `Poor` category at 9:00 am on Monday, said SAFAR.

"The overall Delhi Air Quality Index (AQI) is back in the poor category on Monday. The impact of moist air due to rain is diminishing now. The SAFAR model forecast suggests AQI is likely to deteriorate marginally to the higher end of poor category for tomorrow," said SAFAR in its trending summary.

Further deterioration to the `Very Poor` category is forecast for December 3. Since fire count is low, no significant stubble impact is expecting in Delhi tomorrow, the agency said.

In Chandani Chowk, the major pollutant PM 2.5 was at 343 in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-gasps-for-breath-aqi-remains-in-very-poor-category-264003">`Very Poor` category</a> whereas in Noida it was s at 227 in the `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 is marked as `severe`. An AQI above 500 falls in the `severe plus` category.

PM 2.5 was recorded at 206 in the `Poor` category and PM 10 at 192 in the `Moderate` category at Lodhi Road area earlier today, according to the Air Quality Index (AQI) data.

After a brief respite from the toxic air, the air quality of Delhi again plunged into `poor` category on Sunday morning making it difficult for locals to move outdoors.

The maximum and minimum temperatures in the national capital are expected to hover around 23.4 degrees Celcius and 8.0 degrees Celcius, as per the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The air quality in Delhi remained in the `poor` category on Monday morning, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) likely to deteriorate marginally tomorrow, as per the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

The air quality in Delhi remained in the `poor` category on Monday morning, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) likely to deteriorate marginally tomorrow, as per the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). The overall AQI of the national capital was 266, in the `Poor` category at 9:00 am on Monday, said SAFAR. "The overall Delhi Air Quality Index (AQI) is back in the poor category on Monday. The impact of moist air due to rain is diminishing now. The SAFAR model forecast suggests AQI is likely to deteriorate marginally to the higher end of poor category for tomorrow," said SAFAR in its trending summary. Further deterioration to the `Very Poor` category is forecast for December 3. Since fire count is low, no significant stubble impact is expecting in Delhi tomorrow, the agency said. In Chandani Chowk, the major pollutant PM 2.5 was at 343 in the `Very Poor` category whereas in Noida it was s at 227 in the `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 is marked as `severe`. An AQI above 500 falls in the `severe plus` category. PM 2.5 was recorded at 206 in the `Poor` category and PM 10 at 192 in the `Moderate` category at Lodhi Road area earlier today, according to the Air Quality Index (AQI) data. After a brief respite from the toxic air, the air quality of Delhi again plunged into `poor` category on Sunday morning making it difficult for locals to move outdoors. The maximum and minimum temperatures in the national capital are expected to hover around 23.4 degrees Celcius and 8.0 degrees Celcius, as per the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Delhi air quality remains in 'poor' category, AQI likely to deteriorate tomorrow

"Why are people being forced to live in gas chambers? It is better to kill them all in one go, " the Supreme Court told the Centre on Monday for not doing enough to control <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-air-quality-improves-to-poor-category-264153">pollution in Delhi </a>and nearby areas.&nbsp;

The bench comprising Justices Deepak Gupta and Arun Mishra pulled up Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who was representing Centre in the apex court, saying, "Why are people being forced to live in gas chambers? It is better to kill them all in one go, get explosives in 15 bags at one go. Why should people suffer all this? In Delhi blame game is going on, I am literally shocked”.

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Supreme Court to Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, "Why are people being forced to live in gas chambers? It is better to kill them all in one go, get explosives in 15 bags at one go. Why should people suffer all this? In Delhi blame game is going on, I am literally shocked”. <a href="https://t.co/ZyeQwTpVCT">pic.twitter.com/ZyeQwTpVCT</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1198892055285518336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier on Monday, the residents of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-fire-service-deploys-20-fire-tenders-across-city-to-counter-air-pollution-264121">Delhi </a>once again woke up breathing toxic air as the air quality index (AQI) remained under the "poor" category. At 9:10 am, the AQI stood at 218 in the national capital, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR).&nbsp;

An AQI of O-50 is considered as "good", 51-100 "satisfactory", 101-200 "moderate", 201-300 "poor", 301-400 "very poor", 401-500 "severe", and over 501 "very severe".&nbsp;

The SC also rapped Punjab, Haryana, Delhi governments for failing to take measures to control pollution.&nbsp;

"Why stubble burning has increased in the state. You (Haryana government) had done a good job earlier in controlling stubble burning, but now it has increased. Punjab and Haryana are not doing anything ”, the SC said to chief secretaries of Punjab and Haryana.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The SC also called Delhi worse than hell. It said that the Delhi government has no right to be in the chair.

"How many lakhs each person should be paid? How much do you value a person's life", the SC told Delhi government.&nbsp;

People are laughing at our country that we can't even control stubble burning. The blame game is not serving the people of Delhi, the SC said.&nbsp;

The SC said the government is not able to take measures doesn't mean that people in Delhi NCR suffer and die from cancer.

The apex court also asked Punjab secretary of the steps taken by the government to prevent stubble burning. &nbsp;"How can you treat people like this &amp; let them die. Tell us why stubble burning increased after our order. Why are you not able to check stubble burning. Is it not a failure?," the SC said.&nbsp;

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Pollution matter in Supreme Court: Justice Arun Mishra says Delhi is worse than hell. Life is not so cheap in India and you will have to pay; says to Delhi govt- You have no right to be in chair. How many lakhs each person should be paid? How much do you value a person's life? <a href="https://t.co/n7N7mxDRvb">https://t.co/n7N7mxDRvb</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1198896687701356545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The SC also ordered the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to file details on the nature of factories operating in the capital city and its adverse impact on the environment. The apex court said that it will take suo motu cognisance of water pollution issue in Delhi to verify whether the drinking water is safe for the people of this city.

Delhi is considered as the most polluted city in the world.&nbsp;

"Why are people being forced to live in gas chambers? It is better to kill them all in one go, " the Supreme Court told the Centre on Monday for not doing enough to control pollution in Delhi and nearby areas.

"Why are people being forced to live in gas chambers? It is better to kill them all in one go, " the Supreme Court told the Centre on Monday for not doing enough to control pollution in Delhi and nearby areas. The bench comprising Justices Deepak Gupta and Arun Mishra pulled up Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who was representing Centre in the apex court, saying, "Why are people being forced to live in gas chambers? It is better to kill them all in one go, get explosives in 15 bags at one go. Why should people suffer all this? In Delhi blame game is going on, I am literally shocked”. Supreme Court to Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, "Why are people being forced to live in gas chambers? It is better to kill them all in one go, get explosives in 15 bags at one go. Why should people suffer all this? In Delhi blame game is going on, I am literally shocked”. pic.twitter.com/ZyeQwTpVCT — ANI (@ANI) November 25, 2019 × Earlier on Monday, the residents of Delhi once again woke up breathing toxic air as the air quality index (AQI) remained under the "poor" category. At 9:10 am, the AQI stood at 218 in the national capital, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR). An AQI of O-50 is considered as "good", 51-100 "satisfactory", 101-200 "moderate", 201-300 "poor", 301-400 "very poor", 401-500 "severe", and over 501 "very severe". The SC also rapped Punjab, Haryana, Delhi governments for failing to take measures to control pollution. "Why stubble burning has increased in the state. You (Haryana government) had done a good job earlier in controlling stubble burning, but now it has increased. Punjab and Haryana are not doing anything ”, the SC said to chief secretaries of Punjab and Haryana. The SC also called Delhi worse than hell. It said that the Delhi government has no right to be in the chair. "How many lakhs each person should be paid? How much do you value a person's life", the SC told Delhi government. People are laughing at our country that we can't even control stubble burning. The blame game is not serving the people of Delhi, the SC said. The SC said the government is not able to take measures doesn't mean that people in Delhi NCR suffer and die from cancer. The apex court also asked Punjab secretary of the steps taken by the government to prevent stubble burning. "How can you treat people like this & let them die. Tell us why stubble burning increased after our order. Why are you not able to check stubble burning. Is it not a failure?," the SC said. Pollution matter in Supreme Court: Justice Arun Mishra says Delhi is worse than hell. Life is not so cheap in India and you will have to pay; says to Delhi govt- You have no right to be in chair. How many lakhs each person should be paid? How much do you value a person's life? https://t.co/n7N7mxDRvb — ANI (@ANI) November 25, 2019 × The SC also ordered the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to file details on the nature of factories operating in the capital city and its adverse impact on the environment. The apex court said that it will take suo motu cognisance of water pollution issue in Delhi to verify whether the drinking water is safe for the people of this city. Delhi is considered as the most polluted city in the world.

'Why are people being forced to live in gas chambers? It is better to kill them all in one go', Supreme Court raps Centre, state governments

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