Low visibility conditions on Tuesday disrupted<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pollution-at-emegency-level-in-past-two-days-in-delhi-186191"> flight operations at the Delhi </a>airport and departures were put on hold for two hours, an official said.

Three international and one domestic flight have been diverted so far while arrivals have not been stopped, the official added.

The minimum visibility required for takeoff is 125 metres.

According to the official, since the Low Visibility Take Off (LVTO) requirement is not being fulfilled, the departure of flights was on hold for two hours from around 0715 hours.

The departure of flights resumed at 0916 hours.

The Indira Gandhi International Airport is the busiest in the country and on an average sees more than 70 flight movements per hour. This includes both arrivals and departures.

Low visibility conditions on Tuesday disrupted flight operations at the Delhi airport and departures were put on hold for two hours, an official said. Three international and one domestic flight have been diverted so far while arrivals have not been stopped, the official added.

Low visibility conditions on Tuesday disrupted flight operations at the Delhi airport and departures were put on hold for two hours, an official said. Three international and one domestic flight have been diverted so far while arrivals have not been stopped, the official added. The minimum visibility required for takeoff is 125 metres. According to the official, since the Low Visibility Take Off (LVTO) requirement is not being fulfilled, the departure of flights was on hold for two hours from around 0715 hours. The departure of flights resumed at 0916 hours. The Indira Gandhi International Airport is the busiest in the country and on an average sees more than 70 flight movements per hour. This includes both arrivals and departures.

Low visibility disrupts flight operations at Delhi airport

Many Delhi residents were forced to spend Christmas indoors this year as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pollution-at-emegency-level-in-past-two-days-in-delhi-186191">air quality remained at "severe to emergency" </a>levels for a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhis-air-quality-remains-severe-for-4th-consecutive-day-186325">fourth day</a>, in the Indian capital's worst smog crisis this year.

Senior officials predicted the severe pollution would last another three days due to unusually stagnant and cold air. They issued a three-day emergency response on Monday that included closing area factories and banning construction works.

"We are preferring to stay at home due to pollution despite Christmas celebrations and a public holiday," said Amit Azad, a financial consultant. He bought an air purifier this week after developing a cough because of the smog.

A Delhi government official blamed the pollution for lighter-than-usual traffic on already holiday-thinned streets, while a Delhi airport official said some domestic and international flights were delayed for up to two hours due to poor visibility.

Delhi's air quality index, which measures the concentration of poisonous particulate matter, averaged 420 on Tuesday morning, slightly better than 449-450 the previous two days - the worst this year - data from the government's Central Pollution Control Board showed. A reading above 100 is considered unhealthy.

Delhi is ranked among the world's worst cities in air quality, after years of breakneck growth in auto sales and coal-fired power generation.

Environmentalists say the federal and city governments, while focusing on temporary responses, are side-stepping more effective, long-term measures that would hit at the sources of pollution and promote cleaner fuels.

"There is a lack of political will to take required measures on a sustained basis to contain pollution levels," said Sunil Dahiya, a senior campaigner with Greenpeace India. He called for higher car parking fees and reduced dependence on coal-fired power plants.

Dahiya also said the government should immediately close down schools and urge people to curtail outdoor activities given the serious health effects of the current pollution levels.

Many Delhi residents were forced to spend Christmas indoors this year as air quality remained at "severe to emergency" levels for a fourth day, in the Indian capital's worst smog crisis this year.

Many Delhi residents were forced to spend Christmas indoors this year as air quality remained at "severe to emergency" levels for a fourth day, in the Indian capital's worst smog crisis this year. Senior officials predicted the severe pollution would last another three days due to unusually stagnant and cold air. They issued a three-day emergency response on Monday that included closing area factories and banning construction works. "We are preferring to stay at home due to pollution despite Christmas celebrations and a public holiday," said Amit Azad, a financial consultant. He bought an air purifier this week after developing a cough because of the smog. A Delhi government official blamed the pollution for lighter-than-usual traffic on already holiday-thinned streets, while a Delhi airport official said some domestic and international flights were delayed for up to two hours due to poor visibility. Delhi's air quality index, which measures the concentration of poisonous particulate matter, averaged 420 on Tuesday morning, slightly better than 449-450 the previous two days - the worst this year - data from the government's Central Pollution Control Board showed. A reading above 100 is considered unhealthy. Delhi is ranked among the world's worst cities in air quality, after years of breakneck growth in auto sales and coal-fired power generation. Environmentalists say the federal and city governments, while focusing on temporary responses, are side-stepping more effective, long-term measures that would hit at the sources of pollution and promote cleaner fuels. "There is a lack of political will to take required measures on a sustained basis to contain pollution levels," said Sunil Dahiya, a senior campaigner with Greenpeace India. He called for higher car parking fees and reduced dependence on coal-fired power plants. Dahiya also said the government should immediately close down schools and urge people to curtail outdoor activities given the serious health effects of the current pollution levels.

Delhiites spend Christmas indoors as smog level increases

Delhi's air quality remained in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhis-air-quality-severe-cpcb-urges-people-to-minimise-outdoor-activities-186041">'severe' category</a> for the fourth consecutive day on Tuesday as meteorological conditions continued to be unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants, authorities said.

The city is facing its worst <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/close-industries-at-hotspots-ban-construction-till-wednesday-cpcb-led-task-force-186146">pollution crisis </a>since Diwali.

While the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data showed the overall air quality index (AQI) at 'severe' level of 416, the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR) recorded an AQI of 423.

Twenty-five areas recorded severe pollution levels, while nine recorded very poor air quality, the CPCB data showed.

In the NCR, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Noida recorded severe pollution while Gurgaon recorded 'very poor' quality air.

The overall PM2.5 level (fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometre) was recorded at 271 and the PM10 level at 422 here, the CPCB said.

Delhi's air quality had turned 'severe' on Saturday. The national capital recorded its second-highest pollution level of the year on Sunday with an AQI of 450.

According to the SAFAR, the overall air quality in Delhi is expected to remain in the 'severe' range till Tuesday.

"Recovery got delayed mainly due to slowing of wind speed, leading to persistence of fog which rapidly multiplied finer particles, leading to rapid increase in PM2.5 and even PM1 (fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of less than 1 micrometre)," it said.

"Improvement is expected from late Tuesday evening only when radiation fog get dissipated with sufficient sunshine," it added.

According to the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), air quality is likely to improve on Tuesday, but will remain in the upper end of the 'very poor' or in the 'severe' category.

"The wind speed and ventilation index are highly unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants," it said.

Ventilation index is the speed at which pollutants can get dispersed. A ventilation index lower than 6,000 sqm/second, with average wind speed less than 10 kmph, is unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants.

The index on Tuesday was 5,000 sqm/second on Tuesday, the IITM said.

In view of the prevalence of severe pollution in the national capital,&nbsp;industrial activities in pollution hotspots of Wazirpur, Mundka, Narela, Bawana, Sahibabad and Faridabad, and construction work across the Delhi-NCR will remain shut till Wednesday, EPCA Chairperson Bhure Lal said.

The Environment Pollution Control and Prevention Authority (EPCA) has directed traffic police to deploy special teams and ensure congestion-free vehicular movement, particularly in identified high traffic corridors.

The agencies concerned have also been asked to ensure strict action against illegal industries and make all efforts to control polluting activities, particularly waste burning.

In a health advisory, the SAFAR has asked Delhiites not to rely on common dust masks for protection.

The agency has advised people to avoid all outdoor activities, such as taking walks. "If the room has windows, close them, if the air conditioner provides a fresh air intake option then choose it, avoid burning anything such as wood, candle or even an incense," it said.

The advisory also recommended frequent wet mopping and use of masks known as N-95 or P-100 respirators only for outdoor activities.

"Do not rely on dust masks for protection," the advisory added.&nbsp;

Delhi's air quality remained in the 'severe' category for the fourth consecutive day on Tuesday as meteorological conditions continued to be unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants, authorities said.

Delhi's air quality remained in the 'severe' category for the fourth consecutive day on Tuesday as meteorological conditions continued to be unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants, authorities said. The city is facing its worst pollution crisis since Diwali. While the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data showed the overall air quality index (AQI) at 'severe' level of 416, the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR) recorded an AQI of 423. Twenty-five areas recorded severe pollution levels, while nine recorded very poor air quality, the CPCB data showed. In the NCR, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Noida recorded severe pollution while Gurgaon recorded 'very poor' quality air. The overall PM2.5 level (fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometre) was recorded at 271 and the PM10 level at 422 here, the CPCB said. Delhi's air quality had turned 'severe' on Saturday. The national capital recorded its second-highest pollution level of the year on Sunday with an AQI of 450. According to the SAFAR, the overall air quality in Delhi is expected to remain in the 'severe' range till Tuesday. "Recovery got delayed mainly due to slowing of wind speed, leading to persistence of fog which rapidly multiplied finer particles, leading to rapid increase in PM2.5 and even PM1 (fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of less than 1 micrometre)," it said. "Improvement is expected from late Tuesday evening only when radiation fog get dissipated with sufficient sunshine," it added. According to the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), air quality is likely to improve on Tuesday, but will remain in the upper end of the 'very poor' or in the 'severe' category. "The wind speed and ventilation index are highly unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants," it said. Ventilation index is the speed at which pollutants can get dispersed. A ventilation index lower than 6,000 sqm/second, with average wind speed less than 10 kmph, is unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants. The index on Tuesday was 5,000 sqm/second on Tuesday, the IITM said. In view of the prevalence of severe pollution in the national capital, industrial activities in pollution hotspots of Wazirpur, Mundka, Narela, Bawana, Sahibabad and Faridabad, and construction work across the Delhi-NCR will remain shut till Wednesday, EPCA Chairperson Bhure Lal said. The Environment Pollution Control and Prevention Authority (EPCA) has directed traffic police to deploy special teams and ensure congestion-free vehicular movement, particularly in identified high traffic corridors. The agencies concerned have also been asked to ensure strict action against illegal industries and make all efforts to control polluting activities, particularly waste burning. In a health advisory, the SAFAR has asked Delhiites not to rely on common dust masks for protection. The agency has advised people to avoid all outdoor activities, such as taking walks. "If the room has windows, close them, if the air conditioner provides a fresh air intake option then choose it, avoid burning anything such as wood, candle or even an incense," it said. The advisory also recommended frequent wet mopping and use of masks known as N-95 or P-100 respirators only for outdoor activities. "Do not rely on dust masks for protection," the advisory added.

Delhi's air quality remains 'severe' for 4th consecutive day

Delhi's air quality deteriorated further and was recorded in the 'very poor' category Wednesday, with 10 areas reporting severe pollution levels as authorities said unfavourable meteorological conditions would prevail over the next few days.

The overall air quality index (AQI) of the national capital stood at 372, which falls in the 'very poor' category, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data showed.

An AQI between 100 to 200 comes under 'moderate' category, 201 and 300 is considered 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', while that between 401 and 500 is 'severe'.

The Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR) too said that the overall air quality of Delhi was in the 'very poor' category.

"Overall air quality of Delhi continues to be very poor. The minimum temperatures is likely to fall in Delhi (resulting in additional moisture in the air). Hence, the air quality will remain in the 'very poor' category for the next three days," the SAFAR said.

"Winds are again becoming partially favourable for the dispersion," it said.

The overall PM2.5 level (fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometre) was recorded at 223 and the PM10 level at 359, the SAFAR said.

While Alipur, Anand Vihar, Ashok Vihar, DTU, Jahangirpuri, Mundka, Narela, Rohini, Sonia Vihar, Nehru Nagar and Wazirpur areas saw severe pollution levels, 20 places in the national capital recorded 'very poor' quality air, the CPCB said.

Neighbouring Ghaziabad, Faridabad and Noida recorded 'very poor' air quality, while in Gurgaon, it was in the 'satisfactory' category, it added.

According to the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, the maximum ventilation index on Wednesday was 4,000 sqm/second.

A ventilation index lower than 6,000 sqm/second with an average wind speed of less than 10 kmph is unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants.&nbsp;

Delhi's air quality deteriorated further and was recorded in the 'very poor' category Wednesday, with 10 areas reporting severe pollution levels as authorities said unfavourable meteorological conditions would prevail over the next few days.

Delhi's air quality deteriorated further and was recorded in the 'very poor' category Wednesday, with 10 areas reporting severe pollution levels as authorities said unfavourable meteorological conditions would prevail over the next few days. The overall air quality index (AQI) of the national capital stood at 372, which falls in the 'very poor' category, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data showed. An AQI between 100 to 200 comes under 'moderate' category, 201 and 300 is considered 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', while that between 401 and 500 is 'severe'. The Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR) too said that the overall air quality of Delhi was in the 'very poor' category. "Overall air quality of Delhi continues to be very poor. The minimum temperatures is likely to fall in Delhi (resulting in additional moisture in the air). Hence, the air quality will remain in the 'very poor' category for the next three days," the SAFAR said. "Winds are again becoming partially favourable for the dispersion," it said. The overall PM2.5 level (fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometre) was recorded at 223 and the PM10 level at 359, the SAFAR said. While Alipur, Anand Vihar, Ashok Vihar, DTU, Jahangirpuri, Mundka, Narela, Rohini, Sonia Vihar, Nehru Nagar and Wazirpur areas saw severe pollution levels, 20 places in the national capital recorded 'very poor' quality air, the CPCB said. Neighbouring Ghaziabad, Faridabad and Noida recorded 'very poor' air quality, while in Gurgaon, it was in the 'satisfactory' category, it added. According to the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, the maximum ventilation index on Wednesday was 4,000 sqm/second. A ventilation index lower than 6,000 sqm/second with an average wind speed of less than 10 kmph is unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants.

Delhi's air quality deteriorates further, 10 areas record severe pollution: Authorities

Following light rainfall in parts of the national capital, air quality of the region has witnessed a significant improvement. The Air Quality Index (AQI) for Delhi jumped from to 'poor' category on Friday from 'very poor' on Thursday.

According to Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the overall air quality of Delhi docked at 235 in the morning. The weather in the region will be mostly sunny with daytime temperature reaching 26-degree celsius. Night time temperature is expected to be 14-degree Celsius. Humidity will be around 73 per cent with a wind speed of 10 kilometres per hour, while visibility will be around 1.2 kilometres throughout the day.

Notably, an AQI between the range of 0-50 is considered good, the range between 51 to 100 is marked as satisfactory and 101-200 is moderate, 201-300 comes under the category of poor and 401 -500 severe and beyond 500 is contemplated as hazardous.

At Dhirpur, the AQI was 143 at 8:45 am, while in Mathura Road area it improved to 'Moderate' category at 136. Furthermore, AQI near Pitampura, Airport Terminal 3 and Delhi University stood at 143, 159 and 143 respectively.

The air quality of the capital has improved significantly after the drop in crop residue burning on Thursday. According to SAFAR, the stubble burning fire accounted for only 3 per cent of the pollution, the lowest for this month.

"Air quality improved significantly due to sufficient rainfall earlier night due to washing away effect. Surface wind speed moderately increased but pollution level declined faster than expected as still weather conditions are not completely favourable except sporadic rain. This implies that air is lighter and free path increased to allow faster dispersion. in addition to cleaning by rain, it also tend to suggest that accumulative emission loading is relatively less. Stubble fire is almost negligible. The AQI is likley to remain in poor range tomorrow but slip back to 'very poor 'range thereafter," SAFAR added.

Speaking to ANI, Nitin Kaushik, a fitness enthusiast, said, "The pollution level in Delhi has significantly come down due to the rain. I am happy that now I will be able to walk and cycle in the morning. Earlier, the situation was worse, I was not able to see the nearby building clearly due to smog. More people are now coming out for morning walks and exercise".

However, residents suffering from respiratory diseases have been adviced by SAFAR to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion. They have also been asked to take more breaks and do less intense activities. Asthmatics must keep medicine ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. Heart patients must consult a doctor, in case of palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue.

In an attempt to bring the air quality to a satisfactory level, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Thursday issued an order to all the states to adopt a multi-method approach through in situ and ex-situ management of crop burning residue. It also directed the Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre to "disburse funds well in time" so that "states can utilise it properly".

As per the directives issued by the NGT, the Chief Secretaries of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh held a two-hour long meeting with members of the green panel. Representatives from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, the Central Pollution Control Board and the Union Secretary Agriculture were also present at the meeting.

Following light rainfall in parts of the national capital, air quality of the region has witnessed a significant improvement. The Air Quality Index (AQI) for Delhi jumped from to 'poor' category on Friday from 'very poor' on Thursday.

Following light rainfall in parts of the national capital, air quality of the region has witnessed a significant improvement. The Air Quality Index (AQI) for Delhi jumped from to 'poor' category on Friday from 'very poor' on Thursday. According to Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the overall air quality of Delhi docked at 235 in the morning. The weather in the region will be mostly sunny with daytime temperature reaching 26-degree celsius. Night time temperature is expected to be 14-degree Celsius. Humidity will be around 73 per cent with a wind speed of 10 kilometres per hour, while visibility will be around 1.2 kilometres throughout the day. Notably, an AQI between the range of 0-50 is considered good, the range between 51 to 100 is marked as satisfactory and 101-200 is moderate, 201-300 comes under the category of poor and 401 -500 severe and beyond 500 is contemplated as hazardous. At Dhirpur, the AQI was 143 at 8:45 am, while in Mathura Road area it improved to 'Moderate' category at 136. Furthermore, AQI near Pitampura, Airport Terminal 3 and Delhi University stood at 143, 159 and 143 respectively. The air quality of the capital has improved significantly after the drop in crop residue burning on Thursday. According to SAFAR, the stubble burning fire accounted for only 3 per cent of the pollution, the lowest for this month. "Air quality improved significantly due to sufficient rainfall earlier night due to washing away effect. Surface wind speed moderately increased but pollution level declined faster than expected as still weather conditions are not completely favourable except sporadic rain. This implies that air is lighter and free path increased to allow faster dispersion. in addition to cleaning by rain, it also tend to suggest that accumulative emission loading is relatively less. Stubble fire is almost negligible. The AQI is likley to remain in poor range tomorrow but slip back to 'very poor 'range thereafter," SAFAR added. Speaking to ANI, Nitin Kaushik, a fitness enthusiast, said, "The pollution level in Delhi has significantly come down due to the rain. I am happy that now I will be able to walk and cycle in the morning. Earlier, the situation was worse, I was not able to see the nearby building clearly due to smog. More people are now coming out for morning walks and exercise". However, residents suffering from respiratory diseases have been adviced by SAFAR to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion. They have also been asked to take more breaks and do less intense activities. Asthmatics must keep medicine ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. Heart patients must consult a doctor, in case of palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue. In an attempt to bring the air quality to a satisfactory level, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Thursday issued an order to all the states to adopt a multi-method approach through in situ and ex-situ management of crop burning residue. It also directed the Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre to "disburse funds well in time" so that "states can utilise it properly". As per the directives issued by the NGT, the Chief Secretaries of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh held a two-hour long meeting with members of the green panel. Representatives from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, the Central Pollution Control Board and the Union Secretary Agriculture were also present at the meeting.

Delhi's air quality eases significantly, but relief temporary

Delhi’s homeless choke on air pollution

Following light rainfall on Wednesday night, the air quality in the national capital has slightly improved Thursday, bringing down the pollution level to 'very poor'&nbsp;category from 'hazardous'.

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of New Delhi recorded at 342 at around 9:09 am as compared to 419 on the previous day.

The AQI around Lodhi Road recorded PM 10 levels at 200 and PM 2.5 levels at 336. PM 10 and PM 2.5 levels around the Delhi University are slightly higher with 259 and 345 respectively.

"Air quality has improved significantly mainly due to sufficient rainfall last night to wash away bigger particles and created space for faster dispersion without a decline in temperature. AQI is back to 'very poor.'&nbsp;It may recover further today. A slight increase in AQI is predicted next three days but is likely to remain in very poor," said SAFAR in a statement.

After battling the thick fog for days, the residents of national capital are taking the sigh of relief following the rain. "The weather is quite pleasant. There is no smog. The air is somewhat breathable," said a jogger.

Taking the cognizance of Delhi's worsening pollution level, the chairman of Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) Bhure Lal has asked the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to discuss the matter of restricting private vehicles during severe and prolonged pollution episode with Graded Response Action Plan task force.

While suggesting corrective measures to CPCB, Lal wrote, "In this situation, the only option is to look at either a complete ban on all private vehicles (without the identification of petrol or diesel), other than CNG and/or restriction on plying by number plate (odd-even). However, please note that the odd-even scheme, as practiced in other cities for similar pollution abatement, is done for extended hours and includes all private vehicles."

Recently, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) also formed a committee, headed by former Delhi High Court judge Justice S P Garg to check the causes of air pollution in Delhi.&nbsp;

Following light rainfall on Wednesday night, the air quality in the national capital has slightly improved Thursday, bringing down the pollution level to 'very poor' category from 'hazardous'.

Following light rainfall on Wednesday night, the air quality in the national capital has slightly improved Thursday, bringing down the pollution level to 'very poor' category from 'hazardous'. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of New Delhi recorded at 342 at around 9:09 am as compared to 419 on the previous day. The AQI around Lodhi Road recorded PM 10 levels at 200 and PM 2.5 levels at 336. PM 10 and PM 2.5 levels around the Delhi University are slightly higher with 259 and 345 respectively. "Air quality has improved significantly mainly due to sufficient rainfall last night to wash away bigger particles and created space for faster dispersion without a decline in temperature. AQI is back to 'very poor.' It may recover further today. A slight increase in AQI is predicted next three days but is likely to remain in very poor," said SAFAR in a statement. After battling the thick fog for days, the residents of national capital are taking the sigh of relief following the rain. "The weather is quite pleasant. There is no smog. The air is somewhat breathable," said a jogger. Taking the cognizance of Delhi's worsening pollution level, the chairman of Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) Bhure Lal has asked the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to discuss the matter of restricting private vehicles during severe and prolonged pollution episode with Graded Response Action Plan task force. While suggesting corrective measures to CPCB, Lal wrote, "In this situation, the only option is to look at either a complete ban on all private vehicles (without the identification of petrol or diesel), other than CNG and/or restriction on plying by number plate (odd-even). However, please note that the odd-even scheme, as practiced in other cities for similar pollution abatement, is done for extended hours and includes all private vehicles." Recently, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) also formed a committee, headed by former Delhi High Court judge Justice S P Garg to check the causes of air pollution in Delhi.

Delhi's air quality improves slightly after light rain

Women boxers wear masks, scarves to beat smog at world championship in India

Delhi air quality remained hazardous on Sunday, with Air Quality Index (AQI) at 633 at&nbsp;Mundka.&nbsp;

AQI remained well above 300 in most parts of the city which poses&nbsp;a major health risk.&nbsp;

On Saturday too, the air quality remained 'severe' and though the pollution level dipped marginally for a brief period in the morning, it turned severe again by evening. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, authorities extended till November 12 the ban on construction activities, industries using coal and biomass, and entry of trucks, while the CPCB issued show cause notices to police departments and officials of Delhi-NCR over "non-compliance" of the Supreme Court order on sale and bursting of firecrackers.

Delhi-NCR had recorded its worst air quality a day after Diwali on Wednesday, with AQI at 642 in 'severe plus emergency' category. On Friday too, the air quality remained 'severe'.&nbsp;

Noting that the 'severe +' situation has continued for 37 hrs, a Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)-led task force, which reviews the national capital's air quality, recommended that the ban on construction activities, industries using coal and biomass and entry of trucks should continue till November 12, 2018.

Ghaziabad, Faridabad and Greater Noida recorded severe air quality while Noida and Gurgaon recorded very poor air quality, according to the CPCB.

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe".

The weather analysts expect a marginal improvement from Monday onwards.

Delhi air quality remained hazardous on Sunday, with Air Quality Index (AQI) at 633 at Mundka. AQI remained well above 300 in most parts of the city which poses a major health risk.

Delhi air quality remained hazardous on Sunday, with Air Quality Index (AQI) at 633 at Mundka. AQI remained well above 300 in most parts of the city which poses a major health risk. On Saturday too, the air quality remained 'severe' and though the pollution level dipped marginally for a brief period in the morning, it turned severe again by evening. Meanwhile, authorities extended till November 12 the ban on construction activities, industries using coal and biomass, and entry of trucks, while the CPCB issued show cause notices to police departments and officials of Delhi-NCR over "non-compliance" of the Supreme Court order on sale and bursting of firecrackers. Delhi-NCR had recorded its worst air quality a day after Diwali on Wednesday, with AQI at 642 in 'severe plus emergency' category. On Friday too, the air quality remained 'severe'. Noting that the 'severe +' situation has continued for 37 hrs, a Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)-led task force, which reviews the national capital's air quality, recommended that the ban on construction activities, industries using coal and biomass and entry of trucks should continue till November 12, 2018. Ghaziabad, Faridabad and Greater Noida recorded severe air quality while Noida and Gurgaon recorded very poor air quality, according to the CPCB. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe". The weather analysts expect a marginal improvement from Monday onwards.

Delhi: Air quality remains hazardous, construction ban extended to Nov 12

Air quality is a key concern in India with about 80 per cent of its cities violating globally prescribed standards. The impact of pollution is not just limited to health, as it effects agricultural productivity, visibility, buildings, climate, economy and overall, the image of the country.&nbsp;

Delhi, a part of the National Capital Region (NCR), is one of the most polluted regions in India. On an annual average basis, PM2.5 concentrations in Delhi remain about three times above the standards.

Due to meteorological adversity, the problem worsens in winter and concentrations reach alarming levels. Based on recent The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI’s) findings, among several contributors, transport has a significant share, about 28-30 per cent, in PM2.5 concentrations during winter season in Delhi.&nbsp;

Emissions from the transport sector are dependent on vehicular categories, type and quality of fuels, vehicular age distribution and usage patterns.&nbsp;

As per the latest TERI study, within the transport sector, heavy duty trucks account for 8 per cent, two-wheelers 7 per cent , three-wheelers 5 per cent, cars 3.4 per cent, buses 3 per cent, LCVs and tractors 1 per cent each, in the prevailing PM2.5 concentrations.&nbsp;

So in all, private vehicles (cars and two-wheelers) account for about 10 per cent of PM2.5 concentrations in winters. This share goes down to 6 per cent in summers out of a total of 17% contributed by transport sector.&nbsp;

On the other hand, commercial vehicles (trucks, buses, three-wheelers, LCVs) contribute to about 17 per cent out of the total (28-30 per cent) share of transport in winters.

There are also vintage-wise variations among the vehicular categories. Delhi-NCR moved to BS-IV standards for cars in 2010. In general, older vehicles (pre BS-IV) have shown higher contributions than BS-IV vehicles in the ambient PM concentrations.&nbsp;

This is mainly due to the older technologies in these vehicles and also due to vintage deterioration effects. As per the emission norms, a BS-IV car emits 80% lesser emissions than a car registered before 2000.&nbsp;

In case of cars, 50 per cent each is contributed by pre and post 2010 (BS-IV) vehicles. In two-wheelers, about 35% is the share of post-2010 vehicles, while the rest 65 per cent is contributed by pre-2010 two-wheelers.&nbsp;

With India announcing to adopt most advanced BS-VI vehicle emission standards from 2020 onwards, emissions from new vehicles (registered after 2020) will be further reduced by more than 80 per cent. These new vehicles are to be fitted with tail-pipe control devices like diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and selective catalytic reduction (SCRs) for control of PM and NOx emissions, respectively.&nbsp;

For effective emission control and maintenance of these new vehicles and tail-pipe devices, a strengthened inspection and maintenance system will be required. The current system of pollution under control (PUC) is not fully effective and will be inadequate for the newer generation of vehicles. The improved inspection and maintenance system will also lead to reduced emissions from the older fleet of in-use vehicles. &nbsp;

A ban on private vehicles appears as a solution, but an effective public transport system is a pre-requisite before thinking about implementing such a ban. There are significant limitations in the existing public transport system and is presently not enough to cater to the mobility demands of the city.&nbsp;

This is one of the important reasons, which have led to humongous growth in private vehicles in NCR. As an alternative to the private vehicle ban, ‘congestion pricing’ can be introduced that is based on ‘pay as you use’ principle.&nbsp;

Congestion pricing is a measure, which is used successfully in several parts of the world to gradually reduce the number of vehicles on road and also to encourage a modal shift towards public transportation.&nbsp;

The vehicles with higher occupancies can be exempted to encourage vehicle pooling. In the past, congestion pricing has been implemented successfully in various cities like Singapore, London, Sweden, Rome, Durham, Seoul, San Diego, etc.

There is a need to carefully set up congestion charges and allocating these for providing public transport options in the restricted zones as a public responsibility. Congestion charges can be applied to all different categories of vehicles and may not be restricted to only one category (like cars in the Odd-Even system).&nbsp;

In the medium term, congestion pricing can lead to the improved public transportation system, reduced congestion, savings on fuel and reduced pollution loads. Gradually, the scheme can improve and attract more people as there will be a clear discouragement to use private vehicles.&nbsp;

The congestion pricing scheme can actually work throughout the year and will provide larger year-long benefits. The pricing can be kept flexible based on air pollution levels in the zones.&nbsp;

The scheme can be implemented in many different ways, e.g. a) across the city; b) in the identified low emission zones and 3) in selected road-stretches, etc. Initially, this can be tried out in the identified low emission zones and the private vehicle users plying with lower occupancies can be made to pay congestion prices.&nbsp;

For an effective congestion pricing mechanism, electronic automatic systems will be required and public acceptance will need to be built. Moreover, to reduce private vehicle use, the provision of commuting services on a private basis can be thought of.

In high air pollution days, offices should be encouraged to consider flexible working hours and work from home facilities. The possibilities are endless.&nbsp; 
 
(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-commercial-beats-private-2683405">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

Air quality is a key concern in India with about 80 per cent of its cities violating globally prescribed standards. The impact of pollution is not just limited to health, as it effects agricultural productivity, visibility, buildings, climate, economy and overall, the image of the country.

Air quality is a key concern in India with about 80 per cent of its cities violating globally prescribed standards. The impact of pollution is not just limited to health, as it effects agricultural productivity, visibility, buildings, climate, economy and overall, the image of the country. Delhi, a part of the National Capital Region (NCR), is one of the most polluted regions in India. On an annual average basis, PM2.5 concentrations in Delhi remain about three times above the standards. Due to meteorological adversity, the problem worsens in winter and concentrations reach alarming levels. Based on recent The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI’s) findings, among several contributors, transport has a significant share, about 28-30 per cent, in PM2.5 concentrations during winter season in Delhi. Emissions from the transport sector are dependent on vehicular categories, type and quality of fuels, vehicular age distribution and usage patterns. As per the latest TERI study, within the transport sector, heavy duty trucks account for 8 per cent, two-wheelers 7 per cent , three-wheelers 5 per cent, cars 3.4 per cent, buses 3 per cent, LCVs and tractors 1 per cent each, in the prevailing PM2.5 concentrations. So in all, private vehicles (cars and two-wheelers) account for about 10 per cent of PM2.5 concentrations in winters. This share goes down to 6 per cent in summers out of a total of 17% contributed by transport sector. On the other hand, commercial vehicles (trucks, buses, three-wheelers, LCVs) contribute to about 17 per cent out of the total (28-30 per cent) share of transport in winters. There are also vintage-wise variations among the vehicular categories. Delhi-NCR moved to BS-IV standards for cars in 2010. In general, older vehicles (pre BS-IV) have shown higher contributions than BS-IV vehicles in the ambient PM concentrations. This is mainly due to the older technologies in these vehicles and also due to vintage deterioration effects. As per the emission norms, a BS-IV car emits 80% lesser emissions than a car registered before 2000. In case of cars, 50 per cent each is contributed by pre and post 2010 (BS-IV) vehicles. In two-wheelers, about 35% is the share of post-2010 vehicles, while the rest 65 per cent is contributed by pre-2010 two-wheelers. With India announcing to adopt most advanced BS-VI vehicle emission standards from 2020 onwards, emissions from new vehicles (registered after 2020) will be further reduced by more than 80 per cent. These new vehicles are to be fitted with tail-pipe control devices like diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and selective catalytic reduction (SCRs) for control of PM and NOx emissions, respectively. For effective emission control and maintenance of these new vehicles and tail-pipe devices, a strengthened inspection and maintenance system will be required. The current system of pollution under control (PUC) is not fully effective and will be inadequate for the newer generation of vehicles. The improved inspection and maintenance system will also lead to reduced emissions from the older fleet of in-use vehicles. A ban on private vehicles appears as a solution, but an effective public transport system is a pre-requisite before thinking about implementing such a ban. There are significant limitations in the existing public transport system and is presently not enough to cater to the mobility demands of the city. This is one of the important reasons, which have led to humongous growth in private vehicles in NCR. As an alternative to the private vehicle ban, ‘congestion pricing’ can be introduced that is based on ‘pay as you use’ principle. Congestion pricing is a measure, which is used successfully in several parts of the world to gradually reduce the number of vehicles on road and also to encourage a modal shift towards public transportation. The vehicles with higher occupancies can be exempted to encourage vehicle pooling. In the past, congestion pricing has been implemented successfully in various cities like Singapore, London, Sweden, Rome, Durham, Seoul, San Diego, etc. There is a need to carefully set up congestion charges and allocating these for providing public transport options in the restricted zones as a public responsibility. Congestion charges can be applied to all different categories of vehicles and may not be restricted to only one category (like cars in the Odd-Even system). In the medium term, congestion pricing can lead to the improved public transportation system, reduced congestion, savings on fuel and reduced pollution loads. Gradually, the scheme can improve and attract more people as there will be a clear discouragement to use private vehicles. The congestion pricing scheme can actually work throughout the year and will provide larger year-long benefits. The pricing can be kept flexible based on air pollution levels in the zones. The scheme can be implemented in many different ways, e.g. a) across the city; b) in the identified low emission zones and 3) in selected road-stretches, etc. Initially, this can be tried out in the identified low emission zones and the private vehicle users plying with lower occupancies can be made to pay congestion prices. For an effective congestion pricing mechanism, electronic automatic systems will be required and public acceptance will need to be built. Moreover, to reduce private vehicle use, the provision of commuting services on a private basis can be thought of. In high air pollution days, offices should be encouraged to consider flexible working hours and work from home facilities. The possibilities are endless. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Effective public transport a pre-requisite before banning private vehicles

Watch: WION Dispatch, 8th November, 2018

People residing in the national capital breathed easy on Wednesday after the air quality showed slight improvement due to increased wind speed and requisite control measures undertaken by the government.

The overall Air Quality Index of Delhi at 8:30 am was recorded at 320, which falls under the 'very poor' category, said System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

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.

At Dhirpur, the AQI was 328 at 8:30 am, while in Mathura Road area it dipped to 'very poor' category at 375. Furthermore, AQI near Pitampura, Airport, Terminal 3 and Delhi University stood at 346, 353 and 365, respectively.

The haze will continue to persist during the early morning and late evenings for the next three days.

"The new trend in Delhi to disperse pollutants much faster from one extreme as compared to last year (has been) witnessed in this winter, which means that accumulated pollutants are getting more free path than earlier. It implies that local air is relatively transparent with less suspended dust and fossil fuel mass, which may be an indicator of positive control measures," SAFAR added.

The Centre-run Environment Pollution Control Authority (EPCA), had issued a notification predicting that there will be a depletion of air quality post Diwali period from (November 8 to November 10) due to the low dispersion and winds from the northwest part of India, which will result in increase emission levels in and around Delhi and National Capital Region.

In order to combat the rising air pollution crisis, former Indian Medical Association (IMA) president KK Aggarwal on Tuesday suggested that people must avoid burning of candles and any other products which produce smoke and keeps medicine handy if suffering from Asthma, diabetes and any other respiratory diseases.

Aggrawal further noted that usage of green crackers as recommended by the Supreme Court can help decrease air pollution, but cannot eradicate.

"Green cracker is a cracker. By using these sought of crackers you can only reduce the effects of pollution but cannot eradicate air pollution. At present, we need total elimination of the harmful effects of air pollution," he added.

Increasing toxicity in the air across India had promoted the top court to come up with immediate measures to curb the menace. On October 31, the division bench of the Supreme Court, headed by Justice Arjan Kumar Sikri, fixed the time hours from 8 pm and 10 pm on Diwali for burning crackers and also issued guidelines on the majority of the aspect of the festival.

From partially banning fireworks to set the time limit on the bursting of crackers, the court has issued guidelines on almost every aspect of the festival. The decision from the court came on a clutch of petitions on the behalf of three minors seeking a ban on the sale of firecrackers and manufacturing in an attempt to protect their health.

People residing in the national capital breathed easy on Wednesday after the air quality showed slight improvement due to increased wind speed and requisite control measures undertaken by the government.

People residing in the national capital breathed easy on Wednesday after the air quality showed slight improvement due to increased wind speed and requisite control measures undertaken by the government. The overall Air Quality Index of Delhi at 8:30 am was recorded at 320, which falls under the 'very poor' category, said System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). 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. At Dhirpur, the AQI was 328 at 8:30 am, while in Mathura Road area it dipped to 'very poor' category at 375. Furthermore, AQI near Pitampura, Airport, Terminal 3 and Delhi University stood at 346, 353 and 365, respectively. The haze will continue to persist during the early morning and late evenings for the next three days. "The new trend in Delhi to disperse pollutants much faster from one extreme as compared to last year (has been) witnessed in this winter, which means that accumulated pollutants are getting more free path than earlier. It implies that local air is relatively transparent with less suspended dust and fossil fuel mass, which may be an indicator of positive control measures," SAFAR added. The Centre-run Environment Pollution Control Authority (EPCA), had issued a notification predicting that there will be a depletion of air quality post Diwali period from (November 8 to November 10) due to the low dispersion and winds from the northwest part of India, which will result in increase emission levels in and around Delhi and National Capital Region. In order to combat the rising air pollution crisis, former Indian Medical Association (IMA) president KK Aggarwal on Tuesday suggested that people must avoid burning of candles and any other products which produce smoke and keeps medicine handy if suffering from Asthma, diabetes and any other respiratory diseases. Aggrawal further noted that usage of green crackers as recommended by the Supreme Court can help decrease air pollution, but cannot eradicate. "Green cracker is a cracker. By using these sought of crackers you can only reduce the effects of pollution but cannot eradicate air pollution. At present, we need total elimination of the harmful effects of air pollution," he added. Increasing toxicity in the air across India had promoted the top court to come up with immediate measures to curb the menace. On October 31, the division bench of the Supreme Court, headed by Justice Arjan Kumar Sikri, fixed the time hours from 8 pm and 10 pm on Diwali for burning crackers and also issued guidelines on the majority of the aspect of the festival. From partially banning fireworks to set the time limit on the bursting of crackers, the court has issued guidelines on almost every aspect of the festival. The decision from the court came on a clutch of petitions on the behalf of three minors seeking a ban on the sale of firecrackers and manufacturing in an attempt to protect their health.

Delhi's air quality marginally improves, likely to worsen post Diwali

Delhi air pollution: Before and after

Scores protest over Delhi air pollution

Delhiites breathed easy on Sunday after air quality significantly improved due to increased wind speed and control measures implemented by the government.&nbsp;

The overall air quality index (AQI) at 4 pm Sunday was recorded at 171, which falls in the 'moderate' category. In the morning it was 231, which falls in the 'poor' category, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data said.

The improvement in air quality can be attributed to the increase in surface wind speed to five kmph. This flushed out pollutants, an official of the Centre-run System of Air Quality Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) said.&nbsp;

The reduction in base emission is also suggestive of more pronounced effect of control measures taken by authorities, the official said. 
On Friday, the AQI was 370, which came down to 336 on Saturday, according to the CPCB.

It has been found that PM 2.5 emission reduced "from 432 ton per day to 370 ton per day to reproduce the observed level with realistic met parameters, a decline in base emission by 14 per cent in Delhi and nearby domain", the official said.

PM 2.5 are particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres.

The SAFAR also said there is a large possibility of increase in moisture from Monday evening, which might lead to increase in the pollution level.

"The AQI is predicted to be in the lower range of very poor Monday as the atmosphere is relatively clean," the official said.

The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) said fire counts in the northwest region of India were significantly less on Saturday as compared to Thursday, but warned of sharp increase in PM2.5 concentration from Monday.

"If significant stubble burning continues on Sunday and Monday in the NW (northwest) region of India then its impact is very likely over Delhi and AQI may reach the upper end of the very poor category.&nbsp;

"The northwest wind direction may bring influence of biomass fire on Tuesday and Wednesday," the IITM said.

Delhi authorities have stepped up efforts to combat pollution which includes measures like halting construction activities and regulating traffic.

There is a halt on all construction activities involving excavation. Civil construction has also been suspended in Delhi and other NCR districts, besides closure of all stone crushers and hot mix plants generating dust pollution.

The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has also directed the Transport Department and the Traffic Police to intensify checking of polluting vehicles and control travel congestion in the region during November 1-10.

An aggressive 10-day-long 'Clean Air Campaign' from November 1 to 10 has also been launched to monitor and report polluting activities as well as to ensure quick action.

On Sunday, a total fine of Rs 83,55,000 was imposed on violators by the teams deployed to monitor implementation of measures to combat pollution in the Delhi NCR under the campaign.

A total penalty of Rs 80 lakh was imposed on violators on Friday and Saturday.

Teams are visiting different parts of Delhi and adjacent towns of Faridabad, Gurugram, Ghaziabad and Noida.

Delhiites welcomed the improvement in the air quality which has been severe for the last three weeks .

"I have sent my children to play outside after weeks. I hope the air quality finally improves and we see a clean Diwali," said Sarita Mathur, a Mayur Vihar resident.

Another resident, Ritu Kumar, said she has gone on a walk for the first time this month due to improved air quality.

D Saha, former additional director and head of air quality management division at the CPCB, said, "No drastic change in pollution level is anticipated as the ground level emissions are under control due to various administrative and regulatory measures, we are likely to have clean Diwali."

Delhiites breathed easy on Sunday after air quality significantly improved due to increased wind speed and control measures implemented by the government. The overall air quality index (AQI) at 4 pm Sunday was recorded at 171, which falls in the 'moderate' category.

Delhiites breathed easy on Sunday after air quality significantly improved due to increased wind speed and control measures implemented by the government. The overall air quality index (AQI) at 4 pm Sunday was recorded at 171, which falls in the 'moderate' category. In the morning it was 231, which falls in the 'poor' category, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data said. The improvement in air quality can be attributed to the increase in surface wind speed to five kmph. This flushed out pollutants, an official of the Centre-run System of Air Quality Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) said. The reduction in base emission is also suggestive of more pronounced effect of control measures taken by authorities, the official said. On Friday, the AQI was 370, which came down to 336 on Saturday, according to the CPCB. It has been found that PM 2.5 emission reduced "from 432 ton per day to 370 ton per day to reproduce the observed level with realistic met parameters, a decline in base emission by 14 per cent in Delhi and nearby domain", the official said. PM 2.5 are particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres. The SAFAR also said there is a large possibility of increase in moisture from Monday evening, which might lead to increase in the pollution level. "The AQI is predicted to be in the lower range of very poor Monday as the atmosphere is relatively clean," the official said. The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) said fire counts in the northwest region of India were significantly less on Saturday as compared to Thursday, but warned of sharp increase in PM2.5 concentration from Monday. "If significant stubble burning continues on Sunday and Monday in the NW (northwest) region of India then its impact is very likely over Delhi and AQI may reach the upper end of the very poor category. "The northwest wind direction may bring influence of biomass fire on Tuesday and Wednesday," the IITM said. Delhi authorities have stepped up efforts to combat pollution which includes measures like halting construction activities and regulating traffic. There is a halt on all construction activities involving excavation. Civil construction has also been suspended in Delhi and other NCR districts, besides closure of all stone crushers and hot mix plants generating dust pollution. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has also directed the Transport Department and the Traffic Police to intensify checking of polluting vehicles and control travel congestion in the region during November 1-10. An aggressive 10-day-long 'Clean Air Campaign' from November 1 to 10 has also been launched to monitor and report polluting activities as well as to ensure quick action. On Sunday, a total fine of Rs 83,55,000 was imposed on violators by the teams deployed to monitor implementation of measures to combat pollution in the Delhi NCR under the campaign. A total penalty of Rs 80 lakh was imposed on violators on Friday and Saturday. Teams are visiting different parts of Delhi and adjacent towns of Faridabad, Gurugram, Ghaziabad and Noida. Delhiites welcomed the improvement in the air quality which has been severe for the last three weeks . "I have sent my children to play outside after weeks. I hope the air quality finally improves and we see a clean Diwali," said Sarita Mathur, a Mayur Vihar resident. Another resident, Ritu Kumar, said she has gone on a walk for the first time this month due to improved air quality. D Saha, former additional director and head of air quality management division at the CPCB, said, "No drastic change in pollution level is anticipated as the ground level emissions are under control due to various administrative and regulatory measures, we are likely to have clean Diwali."

Breather for Delhiites as air quality significantly improves

Delhi's air quality was on the brink of turning severe on Tuesday morning which witnessed worst pollution of the season as stubble burning in neighbouring states intensified, authorities said.

The air quality of Delhi was recorded at 397, just three points below the severe level and highest of this season, according to the data of the Central Pollution Control Board.

Seventeen areas of the national capital recorded severe air quality, the data said.

Meanwhile, Delhiites woke up to a misty Tuesday morning with the minimum temperature settling at 16.5 degrees Celsius, a notch above the season's average.

The Centre-run System of Air Quality Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) attributed "heavy stubble burning in the last 24 hours and calm winds as the reason behind the further deterioration of air capital.

The SAFAR said about 28 per cent of pollution by PM2.5 (presence of particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres) on Tuesday was caused due to regional factors like stubble burning.

PM2.5 was recorded at 251, the highest of this season. Fine particulates can be a matter of more serious health concern than PM10.

Humidity was recorded at 88 per cent at 8.30 AM, said a Met department official.

The weatherman has predicted clear skies for the rest of the day.

"The maximum temperature is expected to settle at 31 degrees," the weatherman said.

Farmers in Punjab have stepped up burning of crop reside after the harvest to prepare their fields for the next round of planting.

This has a direct bearing on the air quality particularly when surface wind is blowing at a slow speed of 2.5 km per hour, favouring accumulation of very small particulate matter called PM-2.5.&nbsp;

On Monday, the maximum temperature settled at 31.1 degrees Celsius while the minimum was recorded at 15.5 degrees.

Delhi's air quality was on the brink of turning severe on Tuesday morning which witnessed worst pollution of the season as stubble burning in neighbouring states intensified, authorities said.

Delhi's air quality was on the brink of turning severe on Tuesday morning which witnessed worst pollution of the season as stubble burning in neighbouring states intensified, authorities said. The air quality of Delhi was recorded at 397, just three points below the severe level and highest of this season, according to the data of the Central Pollution Control Board. Seventeen areas of the national capital recorded severe air quality, the data said. Meanwhile, Delhiites woke up to a misty Tuesday morning with the minimum temperature settling at 16.5 degrees Celsius, a notch above the season's average. The Centre-run System of Air Quality Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) attributed "heavy stubble burning in the last 24 hours and calm winds as the reason behind the further deterioration of air capital. The SAFAR said about 28 per cent of pollution by PM2.5 (presence of particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres) on Tuesday was caused due to regional factors like stubble burning. PM2.5 was recorded at 251, the highest of this season. Fine particulates can be a matter of more serious health concern than PM10. Humidity was recorded at 88 per cent at 8.30 AM, said a Met department official. The weatherman has predicted clear skies for the rest of the day. "The maximum temperature is expected to settle at 31 degrees," the weatherman said. Farmers in Punjab have stepped up burning of crop reside after the harvest to prepare their fields for the next round of planting. This has a direct bearing on the air quality particularly when surface wind is blowing at a slow speed of 2.5 km per hour, favouring accumulation of very small particulate matter called PM-2.5. On Monday, the maximum temperature settled at 31.1 degrees Celsius while the minimum was recorded at 15.5 degrees.

Delhi's air on brink of turning severe, worst pollution of season recorded Tuesday: Authorities

Delhi's air quality remained 'very poor' for the fourth day Saturday with eight areas of the national capital recording severe pollution levels, as authorities warned the situation may deteriorate further next week due to localised emissions during festival and stubble burning.

The Central Pollution Control Board recorded the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi at 350. The highest AQI of this season was recorded Friday at 361.

In the NCR region, Ghaziabad recorded severe pollution level, while Gurgaon, Faridabad, Noida and Greater Noida all recorded 'very poor' air quality, according to data by the Central Pollution Control Board data on Saturday.

The eight areas that recorded 'severe' air quality Saturday are Anand Vihar, Dwarka Sector 8, Narela, Punjabi Bagh, Bawana, Mundaka, Vivek Vihar and Rohini.

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'.

The CPCB-led task force has recommended stringent measures from November 1 to 10, forecasting further deterioration in the air quality ahead of Diwali.

Some of these recommendations include shut down of coal and biomass factories, intensification of inspection by transport department to check polluting vehicles and control traffic congestion in Delhi NCR during November 1-10.

Authorities also issued an advisory to public, asking them to avoid outdoor strenuous activities and minimise the use of private vehicles.

The task force also warned that at the beginning of November, the situation may get further deteriorated on account of localised emissions during festival and regional contribution due to stubble burning.

The PM2.5 (presence of particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres) was recorded at 179. The PM2.5, also called "fine particulates," can be a matter of more serious health concern than PM10.

The PM10 level (presence of particles in the air with a diameter of less than 10 micrometres) in Delhi stood at 321, according to the data from the SAFAR.

The SAFAR also issued a heath advisory due to increased pollution level in Delhi, urging people with heart or lung disease, older adults and children to avoid prolonged or heavy exertion.

It also recommended people to go for shorter walks instead of jogs, keeping windows closed and wearing masks while stepping outside.

Delhi's air quality remained 'very poor' for the fourth day Saturday with eight areas of the national capital recording severe pollution levels, as authorities warned the situation may deteriorate further next week due to localised emissions during festival and stubble burning.

Delhi's air quality remained 'very poor' for the fourth day Saturday with eight areas of the national capital recording severe pollution levels, as authorities warned the situation may deteriorate further next week due to localised emissions during festival and stubble burning. The Central Pollution Control Board recorded the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi at 350. The highest AQI of this season was recorded Friday at 361. In the NCR region, Ghaziabad recorded severe pollution level, while Gurgaon, Faridabad, Noida and Greater Noida all recorded 'very poor' air quality, according to data by the Central Pollution Control Board data on Saturday. The eight areas that recorded 'severe' air quality Saturday are Anand Vihar, Dwarka Sector 8, Narela, Punjabi Bagh, Bawana, Mundaka, Vivek Vihar and Rohini. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'. The CPCB-led task force has recommended stringent measures from November 1 to 10, forecasting further deterioration in the air quality ahead of Diwali. Some of these recommendations include shut down of coal and biomass factories, intensification of inspection by transport department to check polluting vehicles and control traffic congestion in Delhi NCR during November 1-10. Authorities also issued an advisory to public, asking them to avoid outdoor strenuous activities and minimise the use of private vehicles. The task force also warned that at the beginning of November, the situation may get further deteriorated on account of localised emissions during festival and regional contribution due to stubble burning. The PM2.5 (presence of particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres) was recorded at 179. The PM2.5, also called "fine particulates," can be a matter of more serious health concern than PM10. The PM10 level (presence of particles in the air with a diameter of less than 10 micrometres) in Delhi stood at 321, according to the data from the SAFAR. The SAFAR also issued a heath advisory due to increased pollution level in Delhi, urging people with heart or lung disease, older adults and children to avoid prolonged or heavy exertion. It also recommended people to go for shorter walks instead of jogs, keeping windows closed and wearing masks while stepping outside.

Delhi continues to choke with 'very poor' air quality, 8 areas record severe pollution: Authorities

Avoiding outdoor exercises and minimal use of private vehicles are some of the measures the CPCB-led task force has suggested for implementation in

Delhi-NCR during the first 10 days of November as the air quality is likely to deteriorate further owing to localised emissions around festivals and stubble burning in neighbouring states.

The Central Pollution Control Board's task force also recommended closure of all construction activities that generate dust pollution between November 1 and 10.

In a meeting with representatives from Environment Ministry, IMD, Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board, Haryana Pollution Control Board and Delhi Pollution Control Board Friday, the task force apprised the members on the levels of air pollution in Delhi-NCR showing an upward trend.

Siddharth Singh, a representative from the India Meteorological Department, said Delhi's air quality, which has deteriorated to the very poor level, would continue to remain in that category for a few days.

The task force said that at the beginning of November the situation may further deteriorate on account of localised emissions during festivals and regional contribution due to stubble burning.

In view of this and considering previous years' experience, the task force recommended a few additional measures as proactive steps to deal with the situation for consideration by the Supreme Court-appointed Environment Pollution Control Authority.

It has recommended avoiding outdoor strenuous exercises, minimal use of private vehicles to reduce exposure to toxic air.

Other measures included shut down of coal and biomass-based industries (excluding thermal and waste-to-energy plants) from November 4 to 10, intensification of efforts by transport department to check polluting vehicles and controlling traffic congestion in Delhi-NCR between November 1 and 10, according to the minutes of the meeting.

The task force also recommended efforts to provide uninterrupted power supply in NCR areas to avoid the requirement of operating diesel generator (DG) sets.

D Saha, former air quality chief at CPCB, said meteorological factors like wind speed, solar direction and temperature are mostly responsible for increasing pollution levels in the city.

"If these factors come under control, the air quality automatically improves," he said.

The measures recommended by the task force are only preventive steps and not to create panic as the air pollution in Delhi is governed by meteorological conditions, he said.

"One strong wind is enough for dispersion of entire pollutants load. Clear sky in south, southeast and western part will improve ventilation coefficient and will improve situation in Delhi and NCR," Saha said.

The India Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune, said large number of biomass fire spots were seen in satellite imageries in neighbouring states of Delhi.

"The prevailing meteorological conditions are not very favourable for dispersal of pollutants for next two days due to very low ventilation index and low wind speed," the IITM warned.

"As per Air Quality Forecast, the Air Quality is likely to be in very poor to severe category at various places in Delhi for the next two days. The dominant pollutant of AQ Index is PM2.5 and PM10," the IITM said.

Delhi's air quality remained very poor for the fourth day Saturday with five areas of the national capital recording severe pollution levels.

The CPCB recorded the overall? Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi at 341. The highest AQI of the season was recorded on Friday at 361.

On Saturday,&nbsp;five areas recorded severe pollution levels. They are Anand Vihar, Dwarka Sector 8, Narela, Punjabi Bagh and Rohini. Punjabi Bagh recorded the highest pollution level in the national capital at 434.

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".

Avoiding outdoor exercises and minimal use of private vehicles are some of the measures the CPCB-led task force has suggested for implementation in Delhi-NCR during the first 10 days of November as the air quality is likely to deteriorate further owing to localised emissions around festivals and stubble burning in neighbouring states.

Avoiding outdoor exercises and minimal use of private vehicles are some of the measures the CPCB-led task force has suggested for implementation in Delhi-NCR during the first 10 days of November as the air quality is likely to deteriorate further owing to localised emissions around festivals and stubble burning in neighbouring states. The Central Pollution Control Board's task force also recommended closure of all construction activities that generate dust pollution between November 1 and 10. In a meeting with representatives from Environment Ministry, IMD, Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board, Haryana Pollution Control Board and Delhi Pollution Control Board Friday, the task force apprised the members on the levels of air pollution in Delhi-NCR showing an upward trend. Siddharth Singh, a representative from the India Meteorological Department, said Delhi's air quality, which has deteriorated to the very poor level, would continue to remain in that category for a few days. The task force said that at the beginning of November the situation may further deteriorate on account of localised emissions during festivals and regional contribution due to stubble burning. In view of this and considering previous years' experience, the task force recommended a few additional measures as proactive steps to deal with the situation for consideration by the Supreme Court-appointed Environment Pollution Control Authority. It has recommended avoiding outdoor strenuous exercises, minimal use of private vehicles to reduce exposure to toxic air. Other measures included shut down of coal and biomass-based industries (excluding thermal and waste-to-energy plants) from November 4 to 10, intensification of efforts by transport department to check polluting vehicles and controlling traffic congestion in Delhi-NCR between November 1 and 10, according to the minutes of the meeting. The task force also recommended efforts to provide uninterrupted power supply in NCR areas to avoid the requirement of operating diesel generator (DG) sets. D Saha, former air quality chief at CPCB, said meteorological factors like wind speed, solar direction and temperature are mostly responsible for increasing pollution levels in the city. "If these factors come under control, the air quality automatically improves," he said. The measures recommended by the task force are only preventive steps and not to create panic as the air pollution in Delhi is governed by meteorological conditions, he said. "One strong wind is enough for dispersion of entire pollutants load. Clear sky in south, southeast and western part will improve ventilation coefficient and will improve situation in Delhi and NCR," Saha said. The India Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune, said large number of biomass fire spots were seen in satellite imageries in neighbouring states of Delhi. "The prevailing meteorological conditions are not very favourable for dispersal of pollutants for next two days due to very low ventilation index and low wind speed," the IITM warned. "As per Air Quality Forecast, the Air Quality is likely to be in very poor to severe category at various places in Delhi for the next two days. The dominant pollutant of AQ Index is PM2.5 and PM10," the IITM said. Delhi's air quality remained very poor for the fourth day Saturday with five areas of the national capital recording severe pollution levels. The CPCB recorded the overall? Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi at 341. The highest AQI of the season was recorded on Friday at 361. On Saturday, five areas recorded severe pollution levels. They are Anand Vihar, Dwarka Sector 8, Narela, Punjabi Bagh and Rohini. Punjabi Bagh recorded the highest pollution level in the national capital at 434. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe".

Delhi air deteriorates; avoid outdoor activities, minimise use of private vehicles, warns CPCB

Delhi's air quality remained "very poor" Thursday even as parts of the massive Bhalswa landfill site continued to smoulder.

As the air quality showed no signs of improvement, the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC) has decided to act against burning of leaves and garbage.&nbsp;

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi at 331 in the evening, the worst in the season so far.

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe".&nbsp;

Faridabad, Noida, Greater Noida, Ghaziabad and Gurgaon also recorded "very poor" category air Thursday, according to the CPCB data.

The air quality in the capital had shown signs of improvement Monday as it moved from "very poor" to "poor" category.&nbsp;

However, it dipped to "very poor" again Wednesday even as firefighting continued at the Bhalswa landfill site in north-west Delhi.

A Delhi Fire Service (DFS) official said Thursday that a fire tender was stationed at the landfill site as parts of it were still smouldering.

Fire had raged at the landfill site on October 20. However, by Tuesday evening, the flames were somewhat brought under control and parts of the landfill smouldered, DFS officials had said.&nbsp;

The Centre-run System of Air Quality Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) also reported an AQI in the "very poor" category on Thursday.

Meanwhile, the SDMC said it was going to intensify work on stopping incidents of waste and leaves burning by conducting night patrolling in all four zones in its jurisdiction.

The civic body said it has decided to depute six-member teams headed by its sanitation supervisors in all four zones to intercept the burning of leaves and garbage, and fine violators on the spot under the Nation Green Tribunal rules.&nbsp;

"Five-five teams have been constituted in each zone. The teams will take rounds of localities prone to cases of burning of leaves and garbage. The teams will intercept the incidents of burning and warn them, apart from slapping a fine," the SDMC said in a statement.

Delhi's air quality remained "very poor" Thursday even as parts of the massive Bhalswa landfill site continued to smoulder. As the air quality showed no signs of improvement, the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC) has decided to act against burning of leaves and garbage.

Delhi's air quality remained "very poor" Thursday even as parts of the massive Bhalswa landfill site continued to smoulder. As the air quality showed no signs of improvement, the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC) has decided to act against burning of leaves and garbage. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi at 331 in the evening, the worst in the season so far. 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". Faridabad, Noida, Greater Noida, Ghaziabad and Gurgaon also recorded "very poor" category air Thursday, according to the CPCB data. The air quality in the capital had shown signs of improvement Monday as it moved from "very poor" to "poor" category. However, it dipped to "very poor" again Wednesday even as firefighting continued at the Bhalswa landfill site in north-west Delhi. A Delhi Fire Service (DFS) official said Thursday that a fire tender was stationed at the landfill site as parts of it were still smouldering. Fire had raged at the landfill site on October 20. However, by Tuesday evening, the flames were somewhat brought under control and parts of the landfill smouldered, DFS officials had said. The Centre-run System of Air Quality Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) also reported an AQI in the "very poor" category on Thursday. Meanwhile, the SDMC said it was going to intensify work on stopping incidents of waste and leaves burning by conducting night patrolling in all four zones in its jurisdiction. The civic body said it has decided to depute six-member teams headed by its sanitation supervisors in all four zones to intercept the burning of leaves and garbage, and fine violators on the spot under the Nation Green Tribunal rules. "Five-five teams have been constituted in each zone. The teams will take rounds of localities prone to cases of burning of leaves and garbage. The teams will intercept the incidents of burning and warn them, apart from slapping a fine," the SDMC said in a statement.

Delhi sees worst air quality of the season; SDMC to conduct night patrols to check leaf burning

Cyber Monday was on track to become the biggest-ever internet shopping day in the United States as people snapped up bargains on toys and electronics, with many more buying from their phones.

The shopping event is expected to generate $6.6 billion in sales, up from $5.6 billion a year ago, according to Adobe Analytics, which measured 80 per cent of all online transactions from the top 100 US&nbsp;web retailers. As of 10:00 pm&nbsp;EST (03:00 GMT), revenue from smartphones was $1.12 billion.

The buying frenzy has gone on for the better part of a week. Amazon.com Inc said it broke sales records this weekend and was on pace to do so on Cyber Monday. Thanksgiving and Black Friday, during which shoppers spent $7.9 billion, according to Adobe, had also generated record online sales.

The world&#39;s biggest shopping event was China&#39;s Singles&#39; Day earlier this month, in which Alibaba Group Holding Ltd reported sales of $25.4 billion.

Online sales have brightened the overall outlook for traditional US&nbsp;retailers that have expanded beyond brick-and-mortar. However, the availability of deals and promotions for weeks hurt foot traffic at stores.

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A worker uses a forklift to retrieve products stored inside of a large Amazon fulfillment center (Reuters)
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The lengthening of the holiday shopping season has had another effect, too: many Cyber Monday promotions were run of the mill.

&quot;It&#39;s not as exciting as what the marketing makes it out to be,&quot; said Guru Hariharan, CEO of e-commerce software firm Boomerang Commerce, in Mountain View, California. &quot;The majority of these &#39;deals&#39; have been around since early November or late October.&quot;

Amazon came under criticism this year for marketing discounts off list prices it infrequently charges, so shoppers perceive their purchases to be bargains - an allegation it has denied.

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The lengthening of the holiday shopping season has had another effect, too: many Cyber Monday promotions were run of the mill (Reuters)
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According to an analysis by Boomerang Commerce, online retailers including Amazon were offering bigger savings for more of their most popular toys this year than last. Amazon said it sold 3 million toys halfway through Cyber Monday.

Top rival Wal-Mart Stores Inc is within striking distance of matching Amazon&#39;s online prices for the first time, a key milestone in its effort to regain the &quot;low price leader&quot; title, data gathered for Reuters show.

Amazon shares closed up 0.8 per cent, while Wal-Mart and Target Corp shares were about flat. JC&nbsp;Penney Company Inc closed up three&nbsp;per cent, and Macy&#39;s Inc closed up 0.7 per cent.

There had been a slight improvement in air quality recently when authorities stopped all construction activity and the entry of truck into the city

Cyber Monday was on track to become the biggest-ever internet shopping day in the United States as people snapped up bargains on toys and electronics, with many more buying from their phones. The shopping event is expected to generate $6.6 billion in sales, up from $5.6 billion a year ago, according to Adobe Analytics, which measured 80 per cent of all online transactions from the top 100 US web retailers. As of 10:00 pm EST (03:00 GMT), revenue from smartphones was $1.12 billion. The buying frenzy has gone on for the better part of a week. Amazon.com Inc said it broke sales records this weekend and was on pace to do so on Cyber Monday. Thanksgiving and Black Friday, during which shoppers spent $7.9 billion, according to Adobe, had also generated record online sales. The world's biggest shopping event was China's Singles' Day earlier this month, in which Alibaba Group Holding Ltd reported sales of $25.4 billion. Online sales have brightened the overall outlook for traditional US retailers that have expanded beyond brick-and-mortar. However, the availability of deals and promotions for weeks hurt foot traffic at stores. A worker uses a forklift to retrieve products stored inside of a large Amazon fulfillment center (Reuters) × The lengthening of the holiday shopping season has had another effect, too: many Cyber Monday promotions were run of the mill. "It's not as exciting as what the marketing makes it out to be," said Guru Hariharan, CEO of e-commerce software firm Boomerang Commerce, in Mountain View, California. "The majority of these 'deals' have been around since early November or late October." Amazon came under criticism this year for marketing discounts off list prices it infrequently charges, so shoppers perceive their purchases to be bargains - an allegation it has denied. The lengthening of the holiday shopping season has had another effect, too: many Cyber Monday promotions were run of the mill (Reuters) × According to an analysis by Boomerang Commerce, online retailers including Amazon were offering bigger savings for more of their most popular toys this year than last. Amazon said it sold 3 million toys halfway through Cyber Monday. Top rival Wal-Mart Stores Inc is within striking distance of matching Amazon's online prices for the first time, a key milestone in its effort to regain the "low price leader" title, data gathered for Reuters show. Amazon shares closed up 0.8 per cent, while Wal-Mart and Target Corp shares were about flat. JC Penney Company Inc closed up three per cent, and Macy's Inc closed up 0.7 per cent.

Delhi's air quality back to 'hazardous', poor especially during morning hours

Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore flagged off the Delhi Half Marathon in the Capital&nbsp;on Sunday morning.&nbsp;

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At 10th <a href="https://twitter.com/runadhm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@runadhm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ADHMX?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ADHMX</a>. Hats off to ALL participants. Preparation for HM requires year-round dedication. 
 
The giant awakens. India is becoming fitter. 
 
Fitter India, better India. 
 
Congrats to all winners &amp; participants. <a href="https://t.co/38y6G2Tw83">pic.twitter.com/38y6G2Tw83</a>
&mdash; Rajyavardhan Rathore (@Ra_THORe) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ra_THORe/status/932088551658815490?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The Delhi High Court on Thursday gave the go-ahead for half-marathon as planned after the organisers assured the court that they have put in place a refund policy for those who want to opt out.&nbsp;

The organisers also assured the court that they were prepared to deal with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pollution-levels-high-court-issues-notice-to-delhi-government-over-half-marathon-24172" target="_blank">any medical emergencies</a>.

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Delhi Half Marathon Elite category results(Men&#39;s): Ethopia&#39;s Birhanu Legese and Andahmlak Belihu came first and second respectively. USA&#39;s Leonard Korir stood third. India&#39;s Nitendra Rawat came tenth. <a href="https://t.co/IIrZAPHyww">pic.twitter.com/IIrZAPHyww</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/932102142957051909?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-medical-association-writes-to-delhi-cm-asking-him-to-cancel-airtel-delhi-half-marathon-23638">The Delhi High Court had earlier issued a notice to the Delhi government,</a>&nbsp;the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), organisers of the half marathon event and the Delhi Police on a letter by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) requesting to postpone the event due to pollution.&nbsp;

The Delhi High Court on Thursday had given the approval for half-marathon after the organisers assured the court that they have put in place a refund policy for those who want to opt out

Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore flagged off the Delhi Half Marathon in the Capital on Sunday morning. At 10th @runadhm #ADHMX. Hats off to ALL participants. Preparation for HM requires year-round dedication. The giant awakens. India is becoming fitter. Fitter India, better India. Congrats to all winners & participants. pic.twitter.com/38y6G2Tw83 — Rajyavardhan Rathore (@Ra_THORe) November 19, 2017 × The Delhi High Court on Thursday gave the go-ahead for half-marathon as planned after the organisers assured the court that they have put in place a refund policy for those who want to opt out. The organisers also assured the court that they were prepared to deal with any medical emergencies. Delhi Half Marathon Elite category results(Men's): Ethopia's Birhanu Legese and Andahmlak Belihu came first and second respectively. USA's Leonard Korir stood third. India's Nitendra Rawat came tenth. pic.twitter.com/IIrZAPHyww — ANI (@ANI) November 19, 2017 × The Delhi High Court had earlier issued a notice to the Delhi government, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), organisers of the half marathon event and the Delhi Police on a letter by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) requesting to postpone the event due to pollution.

Sports minister Rajyavardhan Rathore flags off Delhi Marathon

The deteriorating air quality in Delhi-NCR means that babies in the region are inhaling a cigarette the moment they are born.

&quot;The first breath a child takes after birth makes him an &#39;infant smoker&rsquo;. All of us are so-called non-smokers because we are already inhaling so much of polluted air,&rdquo; said Dr Arvind Kumar, an oncologist.

Parents often choose an auspicious day for the birth of their child, and often plan it along with their doctors. But in Delhi-NCR, that day is governed by levels of pollution.

Doctors say couples who have to undergo caesarean delivery, often request them to plan the surgery on days when there is no, or very less pollution. This demand shot up manifold during Diwali last month when air pollution levels were extremely high.

&ldquo;Pollution levels were off the charts during Diwali season, so we asked the doctor to delay the surgery. We are being extra cautious since the time the baby has come home. We&rsquo;ve bought air purifiers, sealed our windows,&rdquo; said Vijaya Saxena whose granddaughter was born just a week ago.

Doctors say when a baby born in Delhi-NCR takes the first breath, he/she inhales toxic smog equivalent to 10-12 cigarettes.

&ldquo;We bought an air purifier before the birth of our daughter because there is so much pollution that children&rsquo;s lungs are not developed properly. Earlier, people used to buy clothes before the birth of a child, now that is replaced with air purifier,&rdquo; said Deepa Gupta, mother of an infant daughter.

Children inhale double the amount of air an adult does. So they are at higher risk of developing respiratory problems. According to UNICEF, the biggest cause of infant mortality is pneumonia which is directly linked to air pollution.

&ldquo;Children who are growing in a polluted environment, there lung capacity is reduced. And there are high chances that he will develop asthma,&quot; said Dr Ankit Parakh, child lung specialist.

A research done by Berkeley Earth in China in the year 2015 showed that people are inhaling smoke equivalent to 1.5 cigarettes. In contrast, an Indian inhaled smoke equivalent to 25 cigarettes.

The pollutant which has emerged as the most lethal killer in the polluted air is PM2.5, the particulate matter which is linked to most of the respiratory issues.&nbsp;PM 2.5 is nasty because it can get stuck in the lungs and cause or aggravate asthma and other long-term health problems.

WHO guidelines call for no more than 10 micrograms of PM 2.5 per cubic metre of air. In most parts of Delhi today, the level is close to 400 calling for urgent need to take steps to immediately curb pollution.

Parents often choose an auspicious day for the birth of their child, and often plan it along with their doctors. But in Delhi-NCR, that day is governed by levels of pollution.

The deteriorating air quality in Delhi-NCR means that babies in the region are inhaling a cigarette the moment they are born. "The first breath a child takes after birth makes him an 'infant smoker’. All of us are so-called non-smokers because we are already inhaling so much of polluted air,” said Dr Arvind Kumar, an oncologist. Parents often choose an auspicious day for the birth of their child, and often plan it along with their doctors. But in Delhi-NCR, that day is governed by levels of pollution. Doctors say couples who have to undergo caesarean delivery, often request them to plan the surgery on days when there is no, or very less pollution. This demand shot up manifold during Diwali last month when air pollution levels were extremely high. “Pollution levels were off the charts during Diwali season, so we asked the doctor to delay the surgery. We are being extra cautious since the time the baby has come home. We’ve bought air purifiers, sealed our windows,” said Vijaya Saxena whose granddaughter was born just a week ago. Doctors say when a baby born in Delhi-NCR takes the first breath, he/she inhales toxic smog equivalent to 10-12 cigarettes. “We bought an air purifier before the birth of our daughter because there is so much pollution that children’s lungs are not developed properly. Earlier, people used to buy clothes before the birth of a child, now that is replaced with air purifier,” said Deepa Gupta, mother of an infant daughter. Children inhale double the amount of air an adult does. So they are at higher risk of developing respiratory problems. According to UNICEF, the biggest cause of infant mortality is pneumonia which is directly linked to air pollution. “Children who are growing in a polluted environment, there lung capacity is reduced. And there are high chances that he will develop asthma," said Dr Ankit Parakh, child lung specialist. A research done by Berkeley Earth in China in the year 2015 showed that people are inhaling smoke equivalent to 1.5 cigarettes. In contrast, an Indian inhaled smoke equivalent to 25 cigarettes. The pollutant which has emerged as the most lethal killer in the polluted air is PM2.5, the particulate matter which is linked to most of the respiratory issues. PM 2.5 is nasty because it can get stuck in the lungs and cause or aggravate asthma and other long-term health problems. WHO guidelines call for no more than 10 micrograms of PM 2.5 per cubic metre of air. In most parts of Delhi today, the level is close to 400 calling for urgent need to take steps to immediately curb pollution.

Delhi pollution: Children are inhaling 'cigarette-like air' the moment they are born

&nbsp;

Contrary to Environment Minister&nbsp;Dr Harsh Vardhan&#39;s claims that the air quality this year was better than that of last year, with 569 Air Quality Index (AQI), the pollution levels at Delhi&#39;s Anand Vihar was marked&nbsp;&quot;Hazardous&quot; whereas the air quality at RK Puram and ITO was rated &quot;Very Unhealthy&quot; with 239 and 251&nbsp;(AQI) respectively.&nbsp;

The pollution level in Delhi had been on a constant rise. The recent stubble burning in and around Delhi had added to this degrading quality of air.

However, Vardhan said that the&nbsp;air quality in Delhi has been very good this year.&nbsp;

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Air quality has been significantly better this year. AQI on Diwali &amp; post Diwali were 326 and 367 this year compared to 426 &amp; 425 in 2016.
&mdash; Dr. Harsh Vardhan (@drharshvardhan) <a href="https://twitter.com/drharshvardhan/status/921385447401472001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2017</a></blockquote>
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&quot;Last year we had smog for almost 3, 4 days. Nobody was able to breathe in Delhi but&nbsp;this year the&nbsp;early morning after Diwali everyone could breathe comfortably,&#39;&#39; he added.&nbsp;

&quot;we are on the right path,&#39;&#39; the minister said and added that good days have improved. Satisfactory days have doubled, moderate days improved by almost 22 per cent, he said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

There was no health affliction in terms of development of lung disease and others, he added.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-refuses-to-lift-ban-on-firecrackers-in-delhi-ncr-says-its-an-experiment-for-1-year-22393" target="_blank">Supreme Court recently banned sale of firecrackers</a>&nbsp;to regulate the pollution caused by crackers during Diwali this year.

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Air quality has been significantly better this year. AQI on Diwali &amp; post Diwali were 326 and 367 this year compared to 426 &amp; 425 in 2016.
&mdash; Dr. Harsh Vardhan (@drharshvardhan) <a href="https://twitter.com/drharshvardhan/status/921385447401472001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2017</a></blockquote>
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With an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 569, Delhi's Anand Vihar was ranked 'Hazardous' whereas RK Puram and ITO came under?'Very Unhealthy'?air quality with 239 and 251(AQI) respectively.

Contrary to Environment Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan's claims that the air quality this year was better than that of last year, with 569 Air Quality Index (AQI), the pollution levels at Delhi's Anand Vihar was marked "Hazardous" whereas the air quality at RK Puram and ITO was rated "Very Unhealthy" with 239 and 251 (AQI) respectively. The pollution level in Delhi had been on a constant rise. The recent stubble burning in and around Delhi had added to this degrading quality of air. However, Vardhan said that the air quality in Delhi has been very good this year. Air quality has been significantly better this year. AQI on Diwali & post Diwali were 326 and 367 this year compared to 426 & 425 in 2016. — Dr. Harsh Vardhan (@drharshvardhan) October 20, 2017 × "Last year we had smog for almost 3, 4 days. Nobody was able to breathe in Delhi but this year the early morning after Diwali everyone could breathe comfortably,'' he added. "we are on the right path,'' the minister said and added that good days have improved. Satisfactory days have doubled, moderate days improved by almost 22 per cent, he said. There was no health affliction in terms of development of lung disease and others, he added. Supreme Court recently banned sale of firecrackers to regulate the pollution caused by crackers during Diwali this year. Air quality has been significantly better this year. AQI on Diwali & post Diwali were 326 and 367 this year compared to 426 & 425 in 2016. — Dr. Harsh Vardhan (@drharshvardhan) October 20, 2017 ×

Delhi: Environment minister claims air quality 'very good' but Anand Vihar 'hazardous', RK Puram 'very unhealthy'

The National Green Tribunal has called for an inspection of industries in Delhi&#39;s northwest area after hearing a plea that many units, running without requisite permission, were causing air pollution.

A bench headed by NGT chief Justice Swatanter Kumar directed Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) and North Delhi Municipal Corporation to jointly inspect the area and submit a detailed report, PTI reported.

&quot;We direct joint inspection team of DPCC,CPCB and North Delhi Municipal Corporation should immediately inspect the entire area. They shall give a complete and comprehensive report in relation to what type of industries are carry on their business in that area, what is the nature of business, what pollutants are generated and would also take samples of emissions and analyse the same and submit the report.

&quot;From the photographs on record, it is evident that illegal and unauthorised industrial activity is going on in that area,&quot; it said.

The court asked the Delhi Pollution Control Committee to state whether they had given permission to unauthorised units to operate and, if not, what action had been taken for all these years.

&quot;Let report be submitted to the tribunal positively within two weeks,&quot; the bench said and listed the matter for next hearing on March 1.

The court was acting on the plea of resident Krishan Kumar seeking the closure of illegal industries in Rohini area&#39;s Prahladpur Bangar on the ground that these were causing air pollution.

The plea claimed that numerous industrial units were operating in residential areas without due consent from the DPCC and that authorities had turned &quot;blind eye&quot; towards them.

(WION with inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

Many industries in Delhi's Rohini are allegedly running without requisite permission and causing air pollution

The National Green Tribunal has called for an inspection of industries in Delhi's northwest area after hearing a plea that many units, running without requisite permission, were causing air pollution. A bench headed by NGT chief Justice Swatanter Kumar directed Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) and North Delhi Municipal Corporation to jointly inspect the area and submit a detailed report, PTI reported. "We direct joint inspection team of DPCC,CPCB and North Delhi Municipal Corporation should immediately inspect the entire area. They shall give a complete and comprehensive report in relation to what type of industries are carry on their business in that area, what is the nature of business, what pollutants are generated and would also take samples of emissions and analyse the same and submit the report. "From the photographs on record, it is evident that illegal and unauthorised industrial activity is going on in that area," it said. The court asked the Delhi Pollution Control Committee to state whether they had given permission to unauthorised units to operate and, if not, what action had been taken for all these years. "Let report be submitted to the tribunal positively within two weeks," the bench said and listed the matter for next hearing on March 1. The court was acting on the plea of resident Krishan Kumar seeking the closure of illegal industries in Rohini area's Prahladpur Bangar on the ground that these were causing air pollution. The plea claimed that numerous industrial units were operating in residential areas without due consent from the DPCC and that authorities had turned "blind eye" towards them. (WION with inputs from PTI)

India's Green Tribunal orders inspection of capital's pollution-emitting industries

The National Green Tribunal has issued notice to two public sector oil companies asking them whether they use any diesel vehicle which is more than 10-years-old, while allowing registration of new BS-IV compliant ones for transporting petrol or petroleum products.

A bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar sought the response from Indian Oil Corporation Limited and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd and asked for their reply by January 9.

The direction came while hearing a batch of petitions filed by various contractors seeking registration of new BS-IV compliant diesel vehicles purchased for transport of petrol from company depots to identified petrol pumps in Delhi-NCR.

The contractors had moved NGT after the tribunal had last year passed an order banning the registration of new diesel vehicles as well as re-registration after 10 years.

Later, the Supreme Court had also banned registration of diesel-run SUVs and cars having engine capacity beyond 2000cc in Delhi and National Capital Region.

Due to this, the transport department was not registering the newly procured vehicles, which conform to BS-IV norms and not re-registering the old vehicles, the plea had said.

The green panel had last week directed the applicants to file an affidavit stating that they do not own any diesel vehicle which is more than 10-years old and the new vehicles will not be used for &quot;private purposes&quot;.

&quot;All these vehicles will be fitted with GPS system and log book shall be maintained. It will be certified that these vehicles are BS-IV compliant before the registering authority.

&quot;Upon being satisfied of the above, registering authority of transport department shall be permitted to register these vehicles in accordance with the law,&quot; the bench said.&nbsp;

(PTI)

A bench seeks to know whether Indian Oil and Bharat Petroleum corporations use any diesel vehicle which is more than a decade old

The National Green Tribunal has issued notice to two public sector oil companies asking them whether they use any diesel vehicle which is more than 10-years-old, while allowing registration of new BS-IV compliant ones for transporting petrol or petroleum products. A bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar sought the response from Indian Oil Corporation Limited and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd and asked for their reply by January 9. The direction came while hearing a batch of petitions filed by various contractors seeking registration of new BS-IV compliant diesel vehicles purchased for transport of petrol from company depots to identified petrol pumps in Delhi-NCR. The contractors had moved NGT after the tribunal had last year passed an order banning the registration of new diesel vehicles as well as re-registration after 10 years. Later, the Supreme Court had also banned registration of diesel-run SUVs and cars having engine capacity beyond 2000cc in Delhi and National Capital Region. Due to this, the transport department was not registering the newly procured vehicles, which conform to BS-IV norms and not re-registering the old vehicles, the plea had said. The green panel had last week directed the applicants to file an affidavit stating that they do not own any diesel vehicle which is more than 10-years old and the new vehicles will not be used for "private purposes". "All these vehicles will be fitted with GPS system and log book shall be maintained. It will be certified that these vehicles are BS-IV compliant before the registering authority. "Upon being satisfied of the above, registering authority of transport department shall be permitted to register these vehicles in accordance with the law," the bench said. (PTI)

Air pollution: Tribunal issues notice to leading energy companies

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