Indian Supreme Court Thursday (Oct 3) chided the governments of Punjab and Haryana states for not doing anything substantial to tackle the pollution problem. The top court also criticised the states for collecting just nominal compensation from farmers engaging in stubble burning, which annually causes lethal, toxic air pollution in Delhi.

The apex court also rebuked the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), which is tasked with controlling pollution in and around Delhi.

The bench comprising Justice A Amanullah and Justice AG Masih said, "Everybody knows that except discussion nothing is happening. That is the harsh reality of this."

This comes after the Supreme Court ordered CAQM last week to file a detailed affidavit on steps being taken to tackle stubble burning in the neighbouring states of Haryana and Punjab, key farming hubs in northern India. The bench highlighted how the committee met only thrice in the past nine months and there was no discussion on stubble burning at all.

“The last meeting was on August 29. Entire September, there was no meeting. You said that this committee consists of IPS officers etc who will enforce the directions. Now not a single meeting has been held after August 29 when it comes to enforcement," Justice Oka said.

"Is this the seriousness which is being shown?" the judge asked.

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The state government’s counsel in response told the court that they had filed cases under relevant sections against those engaging in disobedience of orders of a public servant. The court then shot back, saying the FIRs had been filed under the softest provisions.

"You have taken the softest provision that is there to prosecute. There is Section 14 of CAQM Act, Section 15 of the Environmental Protection Act which has drastic powers," the bench noted.

The government’s counsel then argued they didn’t take drastic measures because the pollution level had reduced.

"You must implement your own orders. This is all in the air. There are targets, action plans, sectoral meetings but the basic provisions of the Act are not be implemented at all. In 2024, there are 129 cases of stubble burning, why action has not been taken against these people? Why Section 15 of the Environmental Protection Act is not invoked and why the corresponding action is not taken against the officers of the government?" Justice Oka asked.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Supreme Court Thursday (Oct 3) chided the governments of Punjab and Haryana states for not doing anything substantial to tackle the pollution problem. The top court also criticised the states for collecting just nominal compensation from farmers engaging in stubble burning, which annually causes lethal, toxic air pollution in Delhi.

Indian Supreme Court Thursday (Oct 3) chided the governments of Punjab and Haryana states for not doing anything substantial to tackle the pollution problem. The top court also criticised the states for collecting just nominal compensation from farmers engaging in stubble burning, which annually causes lethal, toxic air pollution in Delhi. The apex court also rebuked the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), which is tasked with controlling pollution in and around Delhi. The bench comprising Justice A Amanullah and Justice AG Masih said, "Everybody knows that except discussion nothing is happening. That is the harsh reality of this." This comes after the Supreme Court ordered CAQM last week to file a detailed affidavit on steps being taken to tackle stubble burning in the neighbouring states of Haryana and Punjab, key farming hubs in northern India. The bench highlighted how the committee met only thrice in the past nine months and there was no discussion on stubble burning at all. “The last meeting was on August 29. Entire September, there was no meeting. You said that this committee consists of IPS officers etc who will enforce the directions. Now not a single meeting has been held after August 29 when it comes to enforcement," Justice Oka said. "Is this the seriousness which is being shown?" the judge asked. Also read: Is stubble burning the sole reason for Delhi’s poor air quality? A new study reveals otherwise The state government’s counsel in response told the court that they had filed cases under relevant sections against those engaging in disobedience of orders of a public servant. The court then shot back, saying the FIRs had been filed under the softest provisions. "You have taken the softest provision that is there to prosecute. There is Section 14 of CAQM Act, Section 15 of the Environmental Protection Act which has drastic powers," the bench noted. The government’s counsel then argued they didn’t take drastic measures because the pollution level had reduced. "You must implement your own orders. This is all in the air. There are targets, action plans, sectoral meetings but the basic provisions of the Act are not be implemented at all. In 2024, there are 129 cases of stubble burning, why action has not been taken against these people? Why Section 15 of the Environmental Protection Act is not invoked and why the corresponding action is not taken against the officers of the government?" Justice Oka asked. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Nothing is happening,’ SC rebukes Haryana, Punjab over Delhi’s pollution problem

A recent study published in the journal Lancet Planetary Health has revealed that even short-period exposure to air pollution levels meeting the Indian standards can result in deaths. About 33,000 deaths each year can be attributed to PM 2.5 pollution levels across 10 major cities in India.

The study was conducted between 2008 and 2019 in cities including Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Pune, Varanasi, Kolkata, and Shimla. Delhi recorded the highest number of deaths which can be attributed to air being 11.5 per cent of the total deaths, about 12,000 every year. Varanasi recorded 10.2 per cent of the deaths, 830 every year.

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The states meeting the national standards also witness numerous death cases attributed to pollution each year. Chennai, Bengaluru, and Shimla recorded about 4.8 per cent (2,100), 4.9 per cent (2,900), and 3.7 per cent (59) of total deaths each year, respectively.

The national standard set by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) for PM 2.5 particles is 60 micrograms per cubic metre, while WHO states only 15 micrograms per cubic metre in its guidelines. PM 2.5 particles are fine particles of pollution with diameters generally about 2.5 micrometres or smaller.

The researchers studied the data obtained from meteorological instruments, air quality monitors, satellites, and other sources to examine the PM 2.5 pollutants exposure over time. They compared the air quality data with the death records obtained for the 10 cities for the same period.

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According to the researchers, the nature of sources of pollution and population may have resulted in a higher number of deaths in cities like Delhi, Varanasi, and Kolkata. However, the main objective of the study was not to compare the numbers but rather to emphasise the need to understand that relatively even low levels of pollution have a significant impact on people's health in the country.

“The insights signal an urgent need to revisit our air quality management strategies that currently focus only on ‘non-attainment cities’, rethink current air quality standards accounting for the lower risk thresholds, and shift from addressing regional to local sources to protect human health effectively,” said Poornima Prabhakaran, director of the Centre for Health Analytics Research and Trends (CHART) at the Trivedi School of Biosciences, Ashoka University, one of the authors of the research.

A recent study published in the journal Lancet Planetary Health has revealed that even short-period exposure to air pollution levels meeting the Indian standards can result in deaths.

A recent study published in the journal Lancet Planetary Health has revealed that even short-period exposure to air pollution levels meeting the Indian standards can result in deaths. About 33,000 deaths each year can be attributed to PM 2.5 pollution levels across 10 major cities in India. The study was conducted between 2008 and 2019 in cities including Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Pune, Varanasi, Kolkata, and Shimla. Delhi recorded the highest number of deaths which can be attributed to air being 11.5 per cent of the total deaths, about 12,000 every year. Varanasi recorded 10.2 per cent of the deaths, 830 every year. Also Read | Assam grapples with severe flood crisis, over 1.1 million people affected The states meeting the national standards also witness numerous death cases attributed to pollution each year. Chennai, Bengaluru, and Shimla recorded about 4.8 per cent (2,100), 4.9 per cent (2,900), and 3.7 per cent (59) of total deaths each year, respectively. The national standard set by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) for PM 2.5 particles is 60 micrograms per cubic metre, while WHO states only 15 micrograms per cubic metre in its guidelines. PM 2.5 particles are fine particles of pollution with diameters generally about 2.5 micrometres or smaller. The researchers studied the data obtained from meteorological instruments, air quality monitors, satellites, and other sources to examine the PM 2.5 pollutants exposure over time. They compared the air quality data with the death records obtained for the 10 cities for the same period. Also Read | Zika virus outbreak: Indian government issues advisory, focus on screening pregnant women According to the researchers, the nature of sources of pollution and population may have resulted in a higher number of deaths in cities like Delhi, Varanasi, and Kolkata. However, the main objective of the study was not to compare the numbers but rather to emphasise the need to understand that relatively even low levels of pollution have a significant impact on people's health in the country. “The insights signal an urgent need to revisit our air quality management strategies that currently focus only on ‘non-attainment cities’, rethink current air quality standards accounting for the lower risk thresholds, and shift from addressing regional to local sources to protect human health effectively,” said Poornima Prabhakaran, director of the Centre for Health Analytics Research and Trends (CHART) at the Trivedi School of Biosciences, Ashoka University, one of the authors of the research.

33,000 deaths attributed to air pollution levels each year within Indian norms: Study

The Sri Lankan cricket team manager Mahinda Halagonda dismissed media reports claiming the 1996 champions had requested the ICC to shift the match to another venue on Sunday (November 05). Most of the Sri Lankan players wore masks when they arrived at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in the afternoon.

"We didn't make a request to change... We just asked them what's the plan," Halagonda told reporters.

Both Sri Lanka and Bangladesh had already cancelled one practice session in the build up to Monday's (November 06) match between eliminated Bangladesh and seventh-placed Sri Lanka, who have only the slimmest of chances of reaching the last four.

"I think they have installed some equipment here, and they've got specialists to check (the air quality). …. They have already informed us that they are planning to go ahead. So we will do exactly what the ICC actually tells us to do."

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Delhi's air quality index (AQI) read an alarming 460 on Sunday and Hathurusinghe said they were trying to minimise exposing their players to such conditions ahead of the match.

An AQI of 0-50 is considered good while anything between 400-500 affects healthy people and is considered a danger to those with existing diseases.

Sri Lanka faces Bangladesh in New Delhi in their World Cup league match on Monday (November 06).

The Sri Lankan cricket team manager Mahinda Halagonda dismissed media reports claiming the 1996 champions had requested the ICC to shift the match to another venue on Sunday (November 05).

The Sri Lankan cricket team manager Mahinda Halagonda dismissed media reports claiming the 1996 champions had requested the ICC to shift the match to another venue on Sunday (November 05). Most of the Sri Lankan players wore masks when they arrived at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in the afternoon. "We didn't make a request to change... We just asked them what's the plan," Halagonda told reporters. Both Sri Lanka and Bangladesh had already cancelled one practice session in the build up to Monday's (November 06) match between eliminated Bangladesh and seventh-placed Sri Lanka, who have only the slimmest of chances of reaching the last four. "I think they have installed some equipment here, and they've got specialists to check (the air quality). …. They have already informed us that they are planning to go ahead. So we will do exactly what the ICC actually tells us to do." Also Read: Buffalo Bills' Shaq Lawson reveals reason behind shoving Philadelphia Eagles fan during Week 12 game Delhi's air quality index (AQI) read an alarming 460 on Sunday and Hathurusinghe said they were trying to minimise exposing their players to such conditions ahead of the match. An AQI of 0-50 is considered good while anything between 400-500 affects healthy people and is considered a danger to those with existing diseases. Sri Lanka faces Bangladesh in New Delhi in their World Cup league match on Monday (November 06).

World Cup: Sri Lanka manager Mahinda Halagonda dismisses reports claiming venue change due to poor air quality

As India celebrates the Festival of Lights India's Ministry of Earth Sciences warns of another spike in air pollution in the national capital region. After a brief respite from pollution due to rains a thick layer of smoke is taking over the Skies of Delhi again on the day of Diwali. Haze persists on the Festival of Lights with air quality being recorded as very poor but predictions estimate that the air is going to deteriorate further.

India: Delhi's AQI dips to sever, again; Delhi's AQI stands at 325

India: New Delhi's AQI dips to sever, again; Delhi's AQI stands at 445: Nov 13

Air pollution has choked Delhi, Now the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur has proposed the idea of "artificial rain" to reduce pollution levels in the national capital. But will it help? Watch this story to know more

Delhi air pollution: Can artificial rain give respite?

Delhi covered in toxic smog, air quality still "severe". Delhi govt plans artificial rain on Nov 20-21 to provide relief to residents. Government bans entry of app-based taxis to the national capital.

Gravitas: Will cloud-seeding seek to ease Delhi pollution?

The residents of Indian capital Delhi and National Capital Region surrounding it may soon get respite from&nbsp;the hazardous air they have been breathing at least since the beginning of this month. The Delhi government will attempt to induce artificial rain through cloud seeding this month, Gopal Rai, the environment minister of National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi, said on November 8.

Rai said that a meeting with scientists from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur was held to pave way for an artificial rain in Delhi during the beginning of the third week of November.

"Experts anticipate that such conditions could develop around November 20-21. We have asked the scientists to prepare a proposal in this regard which will be submitted to the Supreme Court," the minister added.

<h2>Can artificial rain curb air pollution?</h2>

According to Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Director General of the India Meteorological Department, research on artificial rain is yet to make a significant progress.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/is-stubbly-burning-the-sole-reason-for-delhis-poor-aqi-a-new-study-reveals-otherwise-655878">Is stubble burning the sole reason for Delhi’s poor air quality? A new study reveals otherwise</a>

"There have been a few attempts in India… in Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Globally, research is being conducted on artificial rain, which requires the basic requirement of clouds or moisture. Only under these conditions can it occur," Mohapatra was quoted as saying by the Press Trust of India.&nbsp;

"Certain nuclei are sprinkled into the clouds to facilitate cloud condensation, leading to rainfall. In India, research on artificial rain is ongoing, but it has not made significant progress so far," Mohapatra added.

<h2>Artificial Rain: The Beijing example</h2>

The Chinese government has been a top proponent of cloud-seeding technology, and has spent billions of dollars in efforts to manipulate the weather during&nbsp;significant events including the 2008 Olympics.

Beijing launched a two-hour cloud-seeding operation on the eve of the Communist Party’s centenary on July 1, 2021 which resulted in&nbsp;a marked drop in air pollution.

<h2>Delhi Pollution: What else is being done?</h2>

The hazardous levels of pollution have impacted the lives and lifelines across northern India. As a reactive measure, Delhi government has ordered an early winter break in schools from November 9 to 18 due to deteriorating air quality.

Also watch |&nbsp;India's Supreme Court on Delhi pollution

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Besides,&nbsp;the Delhi government had announced the return of the odd-even vehicle rationing scheme for a week beginning November 12, when the already "severe" and "severe plus" air pollution may be expected to get even worse following the Diwali festival.&nbsp;

Delhi government&nbsp;has also banned the entry of radio taxis from other states inside the National Capital Territory.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The residents of Indian capital Delhi and National Capital Region surrounding it may soon get respite from the hazardous air they have been breathing at least since the beginning of this month.

The residents of Indian capital Delhi and National Capital Region surrounding it may soon get respite from the hazardous air they have been breathing at least since the beginning of this month. The Delhi government will attempt to induce artificial rain through cloud seeding this month, Gopal Rai, the environment minister of National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi, said on November 8. Rai said that a meeting with scientists from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur was held to pave way for an artificial rain in Delhi during the beginning of the third week of November. "Experts anticipate that such conditions could develop around November 20-21. We have asked the scientists to prepare a proposal in this regard which will be submitted to the Supreme Court," the minister added. Can artificial rain curb air pollution? According to Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Director General of the India Meteorological Department, research on artificial rain is yet to make a significant progress. Also read | Is stubble burning the sole reason for Delhi’s poor air quality? A new study reveals otherwise "There have been a few attempts in India… in Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Globally, research is being conducted on artificial rain, which requires the basic requirement of clouds or moisture. Only under these conditions can it occur," Mohapatra was quoted as saying by the Press Trust of India. "Certain nuclei are sprinkled into the clouds to facilitate cloud condensation, leading to rainfall. In India, research on artificial rain is ongoing, but it has not made significant progress so far," Mohapatra added. Artificial Rain: The Beijing example The Chinese government has been a top proponent of cloud-seeding technology, and has spent billions of dollars in efforts to manipulate the weather during significant events including the 2008 Olympics. Beijing launched a two-hour cloud-seeding operation on the eve of the Communist Party’s centenary on July 1, 2021 which resulted in a marked drop in air pollution. Delhi Pollution: What else is being done? The hazardous levels of pollution have impacted the lives and lifelines across northern India. As a reactive measure, Delhi government has ordered an early winter break in schools from November 9 to 18 due to deteriorating air quality. Also watch | India's Supreme Court on Delhi pollution × Besides, the Delhi government had announced the return of the odd-even vehicle rationing scheme for a week beginning November 12, when the already "severe" and "severe plus" air pollution may be expected to get even worse following the Diwali festival. Delhi government has also banned the entry of radio taxis from other states inside the National Capital Territory. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi's pollution woes likely to be solved by artificial rain after IIT Kanpur steps in

Heavy pollution-fuelled smog has forced authorities in Pakistan’s most populous province, Punjab, including the eastern city of Lahore, to close markets and schools. The government in the province announced a four-day public holiday in several districts to mitigate the impact of smog.

<h2>What is&nbsp;Punjab government’s plan?</h2>

The provincial government has announced a public holiday from November 9 to 12.&nbsp;

“The government has decided to close down markets for four days from 9 to 12 November in the major cities of Punjab because of smog on the advisory of the health department,” said Amir Mir, the information minister for Punjab.&nbsp;

According to a directive from the provincial government, schools, offices, restaurants, and businesses aside from priority services like pharmacies, hospitals and courts, would all close to limit residents’ movement outside.&nbsp;

The Pakistani province is home to more than 110 million people.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-delhi-its-not-entirely-stubble-burning-what-else-fueling-air-pollution-656447">New Delhi: It's not entirely stubble burning. What else is fueling air pollution?</a>

Punjab caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi told a press conference&nbsp;on Tuesday (Nov 7) that the public holiday will take effect in Lahore, Gujranwala and Hafizabad divisions of the province.&nbsp;

Marriage halls and bakeries will also be open, said Naqvi, according to PTI news agency.&nbsp;

<h2>Situation in Lahore</h2>

The provincial capital of Lahore has been among the most polluted cities and its air quality was the worst in the world on Wednesday (Nov 8), according to Swiss group IQAir.&nbsp;

The air quality index of the Pakistani province was at a “hazardous” 432, followed by India’s capital Delhi at 302.&nbsp;

The caretaker Pakistani CM has also reportedly attributed the spread of smog in Lahore and other parts of the province to the burning of the residues of crops in the Indian state of Punjab and requested caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar to take action.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-govt-to-consider-scs-remarks-over-odd-even-rule-after-latter-calls-it-mere-optics-656170">Delhi govt to consider SC’s remarks over odd-even rule, after latter calls it ‘mere optics’</a>

Kakar assured the Punjab government of taking up the smog issue with India. This comes as growing industrialisation in South Asia in recent decades has led to more pollutants from factories, construction activity and vehicles. The issue becomes severe in cooler autumn and winter months.&nbsp;

Heavy smog blanketed Lahore this week leading to low visibility and prompting residents to complain of a threat to their health. “The weather is such that everyone has a bad throat and bad eyes, and everyone's health is getting affected,” said Mohammad Salahuddin, a private guard in Lahore, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Heavy pollution-fuelled smog has forced authorities in Pakistan’s most populous province, Punjab, including the eastern city of Lahore, to close markets and schools.

Heavy pollution-fuelled smog has forced authorities in Pakistan’s most populous province, Punjab, including the eastern city of Lahore, to close markets and schools. The government in the province announced a four-day public holiday in several districts to mitigate the impact of smog. What is Punjab government’s plan? The provincial government has announced a public holiday from November 9 to 12. “The government has decided to close down markets for four days from 9 to 12 November in the major cities of Punjab because of smog on the advisory of the health department,” said Amir Mir, the information minister for Punjab. According to a directive from the provincial government, schools, offices, restaurants, and businesses aside from priority services like pharmacies, hospitals and courts, would all close to limit residents’ movement outside. The Pakistani province is home to more than 110 million people. ALSO READ | New Delhi: It's not entirely stubble burning. What else is fueling air pollution? Punjab caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi told a press conference on Tuesday (Nov 7) that the public holiday will take effect in Lahore, Gujranwala and Hafizabad divisions of the province. Marriage halls and bakeries will also be open, said Naqvi, according to PTI news agency. Situation in Lahore The provincial capital of Lahore has been among the most polluted cities and its air quality was the worst in the world on Wednesday (Nov 8), according to Swiss group IQAir. The air quality index of the Pakistani province was at a “hazardous” 432, followed by India’s capital Delhi at 302. The caretaker Pakistani CM has also reportedly attributed the spread of smog in Lahore and other parts of the province to the burning of the residues of crops in the Indian state of Punjab and requested caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar to take action. ALSO READ | Delhi govt to consider SC’s remarks over odd-even rule, after latter calls it ‘mere optics’ Kakar assured the Punjab government of taking up the smog issue with India. This comes as growing industrialisation in South Asia in recent decades has led to more pollutants from factories, construction activity and vehicles. The issue becomes severe in cooler autumn and winter months. Heavy smog blanketed Lahore this week leading to low visibility and prompting residents to complain of a threat to their health. “The weather is such that everyone has a bad throat and bad eyes, and everyone's health is getting affected,” said Mohammad Salahuddin, a private guard in Lahore, as quoted by Reuters. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Punjab govt declares four-day holiday due to pollution-fuelled smog; schools, markets closed

As New Delhi's pollution crisis escalates, Supreme Court of India strongly criticized both state and central governments. The top court condemned the 'murder of people's health.' So who is responsible for the air pollution crisis in New Delhi? Here's a report.

Gravitas: New Delhi's battle for breath: Who is responsible for 'murder of health'?

Smog in Delhi during the winter season has become an annual affair. Despite policy interventions and immense debate over the years, there have been no signs of improvement in the kind of air the people breathe in the national capital.

There are a variety of factors that contribute to the deteriorating air quality in Delhi. Smoke from farmers burning crop stubble, vehicle exhaust and factory emissions combine to form a toxic concoction that remains stranded in the lower part of the atmosphere during the winter season.

Out of this, two causes have largely grabbed the limelight: stubble burning and Delhi’s cold temperature.

<h2>Dip in stubble burning&nbsp;</h2>

A new analysis done by Climate Trends, a Delhi-based research institute, has revealed that stubble burning—which largely takes place in the agricultural states of Punjab and Haryana—has actually seen a drop in the past two years.

It has indicated that Delhi’s meteorology might have played a major part in Delhi breathing toxic smog this year.

Using NASA Earth VIIRS data to count farm fires and wind and temperature profile data from CPCB reveal that there has been a 47.8 per cent reduction in farm fires in Punjab and a 38.04 per cent reduction in Haryana between 2022 and 2023 for the period Oct 1 to Nov 5.

Of this, Sangrur district has performed better in Punjab with 46 per cent reduction, from 4,287 fire counts in 2022 to only 2,295 fire counts in 2023.

<h2>Wind direction contributing to smog in Delhi?</h2>

Analysing the wind trajectory data reveals a strong correlation between the wind direction originating from Punjab and Haryana and the resulting pollution levels in Delhi, the study states.

The wind carries pollution from Punjab and Haryana to Delhi 81 per cent of the times, based on the wind trajectory for October 2023, the study notes.

"Air pollution in Delhi is again hovering in the severe to emergency category with AQI levels crossing 400. Our analysis shows that the delicate balance of wind speed, year-round air pollution, and seasonal stubble burning all have a role to play in creating this annual cocktail of noxious gases. 81% of the wind in Delhi these days is from Punjab and Haryana,” Aarti Khosla, Director, Climate Trends, said.

“While the farm fires data from Punjab and Haryana reveals a substantial reduction by 47.8% and 38.04% respectively, against data for October 2022, but since volume of wind from the region is so high, it brings the undesirable impact of heavy pollution,” she added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-to-reintroduce-odd-even-scheme-to-combat-severe-levels-of-pollution-655752">Delhi to reintroduce odd-even scheme to combat severe levels of pollution</a>

“We can also clearly see the meteorological impacts with wind breeze having a big role to play in combination with local sources- construction dust, traffic pollution and small scale industries,” she said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-air-pollution-capitals-aqi-stands-above-450-in-critical-category-cm-calls-for-high-level-meeting-655579">Delhi's air 'critical', with many NCR areas recording AQI at 999, CM holds high-level meeting</a>

She said that the government must keep a year-round check on polluting sources of power plants, industries, traffic and construction

“Also rainfall, wind speed and temperatures impact regional and local air pollution levels. Emissions from human-induced activities have to be controlled strictly at source to reduce the influence of meteorology on the national capital's&nbsp;air&nbsp;quality," Khosla added.

Smog in Delhi during the winter season has become an annual affair. Despite policy interventions and immense debate over the years, there have been no signs of improvement in the kind of air the people breathe in the national capital.

Smog in Delhi during the winter season has become an annual affair. Despite policy interventions and immense debate over the years, there have been no signs of improvement in the kind of air the people breathe in the national capital. There are a variety of factors that contribute to the deteriorating air quality in Delhi. Smoke from farmers burning crop stubble, vehicle exhaust and factory emissions combine to form a toxic concoction that remains stranded in the lower part of the atmosphere during the winter season. Out of this, two causes have largely grabbed the limelight: stubble burning and Delhi’s cold temperature. Dip in stubble burning A new analysis done by Climate Trends, a Delhi-based research institute, has revealed that stubble burning—which largely takes place in the agricultural states of Punjab and Haryana—has actually seen a drop in the past two years. It has indicated that Delhi’s meteorology might have played a major part in Delhi breathing toxic smog this year. Using NASA Earth VIIRS data to count farm fires and wind and temperature profile data from CPCB reveal that there has been a 47.8 per cent reduction in farm fires in Punjab and a 38.04 per cent reduction in Haryana between 2022 and 2023 for the period Oct 1 to Nov 5. Of this, Sangrur district has performed better in Punjab with 46 per cent reduction, from 4,287 fire counts in 2022 to only 2,295 fire counts in 2023. Wind direction contributing to smog in Delhi? Analysing the wind trajectory data reveals a strong correlation between the wind direction originating from Punjab and Haryana and the resulting pollution levels in Delhi, the study states. The wind carries pollution from Punjab and Haryana to Delhi 81 per cent of the times, based on the wind trajectory for October 2023, the study notes. "Air pollution in Delhi is again hovering in the severe to emergency category with AQI levels crossing 400. Our analysis shows that the delicate balance of wind speed, year-round air pollution, and seasonal stubble burning all have a role to play in creating this annual cocktail of noxious gases. 81% of the wind in Delhi these days is from Punjab and Haryana,” Aarti Khosla, Director, Climate Trends, said. “While the farm fires data from Punjab and Haryana reveals a substantial reduction by 47.8% and 38.04% respectively, against data for October 2022, but since volume of wind from the region is so high, it brings the undesirable impact of heavy pollution,” she added. Also read | Delhi to reintroduce odd-even scheme to combat severe levels of pollution “We can also clearly see the meteorological impacts with wind breeze having a big role to play in combination with local sources- construction dust, traffic pollution and small scale industries,” she said. Also read | Delhi's air 'critical', with many NCR areas recording AQI at 999, CM holds high-level meeting She said that the government must keep a year-round check on polluting sources of power plants, industries, traffic and construction “Also rainfall, wind speed and temperatures impact regional and local air pollution levels. Emissions from human-induced activities have to be controlled strictly at source to reduce the influence of meteorology on the national capital's air quality," Khosla added.

Is stubble burning the sole reason for Delhi’s poor air quality? A new study reveals otherwise

The hazardous air quality in northern part of India where the winter is beginning to set in amid a rampaging increase in stubble burning activity continues to be a major health threat for the lives of millions. The air quality is as bad as smoking 30 cigarettes a day, according to a senior Delhi-based health expert widely cited in the media.&nbsp;

But the burning of stubble, the waste of the harvested crops in the vast farmlands of Punjab and Haryana states in northern India, continues despite efforts by authorities to control the menace. Amid this raging health crisis, shocking visuals of an official in Punjab's Bhatinda being forced to burn the stubble. The official was present at the site to enforce the regulations in-place to stop the stubble burning in the first place.&nbsp;

The incident came to light after Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, a leader of Aam Aadmi Party,&nbsp;posted a video on X and denounced the act.

"Dear Punjabi, what paths did you take??... The government employee went with the message not to burn stubble but (you) started fire from him," Mann wrote on X, while stating that the Sikh Gurus had solemnised air, and interpreted it as disrespect to the faith.

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ਪਿਆਰੇ ਪੰਜਾਬੀਓ ਆਹ ਕਿਹੜੇ ਰਾਹਾਂ 'ਤੇ ਤੁਰ ਪਏ ?? .. ਸਰਕਾਰੀ ਕਰਮਚਾਰੀ ਪਰਾਲ਼ੀ ਨਾ ਜਲਾਉਣ ਦਾ ਸੰਦੇਸ਼ ਲੈ ਕੇ ਗਿਆ ਪਰ ਓਸੇ ਤੋਂ ਅੱਗ ਲਗਵਾਈ..ਹਵਾ ਨੂੰ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਨੇ ਗੁਰੂ ਦਾ ਦਰਜਾ ਦਿੱਤਾ .. ਅਸੀਂ ਇਸ ਦਰਜੇ ਨੂੰ ਬਰਬਾਦ ਕਰਨ ਲਈ ਆਪਣੇ ਹੱਥਾਂ 'ਚ ਤੀਲੀਆਂ ਲੈ ਕੇ ਅਪਣੇ ਬੱਚਿਆਂ ਦੇ ਹਿੱਸੇ ਦੀ ਆਕਸੀਜਨ ਨੂੰ ਖਤਮ ਕਰਨ ਲੱਗੇ… <a href="https://t.co/JHzshx4fhs">pic.twitter.com/JHzshx4fhs</a>
— Bhagwant Mann (@BhagwantMann) <a href="https://twitter.com/BhagwantMann/status/1720718896062406772?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>What happened?</h2>

The Punjab Police have now registered a case against the&nbsp;farmers seen in the viral video.

The video shows the official's hand being held by two farmers as they force him to set the stubble on fire with a matchstick.

Bathinda Senior Superintendent of Police Gulneet Singh Khurana said that after the video of the incident went viral on social media, police registered a case against the farmers.

Also watch |&nbsp;Delhi AQI: Air pollution in India's New Delhi turns 'severe'

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He added that the police are searching for these farmers to arrest them.

Bathinda Deputy Commissioner Showkat Ahmad Parray on Saturday (Nov 4)&nbsp;said he had written to the SSP to register a First Information Report against the farmers for preventing the official from discharging his duty.

Parray said the official was surrounded by a group of 50-60 farmers with allegiance to a farmers' association, took him to a nearby field and forced him to put a heap of stubble on fire.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/data-lab-delhi-leads-october-pollution-among-major-indian-cities-what-awaits-in-the-diwali-month-654506">Data Lab: Delhi leads October pollution among major Indian cities. What awaits in the Diwali month?</a>

"When he (official) was mobbed, what option he could have. He had no choice," DC Parray said.

"I am also visiting the village myself. We will not let it go way. Lawlessness is not something that we will tolerate,"&nbsp;said the DC.

The burning of stubble in Punjab and Haryana's farmlands is one of the foremost reasons behind hazardous increase in air pollution levels in New Delhi at the onset of winter. According to Punjab Remote Sensing Centre data, a total of 12,813 stubble-burning incidents have been reported till Friday (Nov 3).

The hazardous air quality in northern part of India where the winter is beginning to set in amid a rampaging increase in stubble burning activity continues to be a major health threat for the lives of millions.

The hazardous air quality in northern part of India where the winter is beginning to set in amid a rampaging increase in stubble burning activity continues to be a major health threat for the lives of millions. The air quality is as bad as smoking 30 cigarettes a day, according to a senior Delhi-based health expert widely cited in the media. But the burning of stubble, the waste of the harvested crops in the vast farmlands of Punjab and Haryana states in northern India, continues despite efforts by authorities to control the menace. Amid this raging health crisis, shocking visuals of an official in Punjab's Bhatinda being forced to burn the stubble. The official was present at the site to enforce the regulations in-place to stop the stubble burning in the first place. The incident came to light after Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, a leader of Aam Aadmi Party, posted a video on X and denounced the act. "Dear Punjabi, what paths did you take??... The government employee went with the message not to burn stubble but (you) started fire from him," Mann wrote on X, while stating that the Sikh Gurus had solemnised air, and interpreted it as disrespect to the faith. ਪਿਆਰੇ ਪੰਜਾਬੀਓ ਆਹ ਕਿਹੜੇ ਰਾਹਾਂ 'ਤੇ ਤੁਰ ਪਏ ?? .. ਸਰਕਾਰੀ ਕਰਮਚਾਰੀ ਪਰਾਲ਼ੀ ਨਾ ਜਲਾਉਣ ਦਾ ਸੰਦੇਸ਼ ਲੈ ਕੇ ਗਿਆ ਪਰ ਓਸੇ ਤੋਂ ਅੱਗ ਲਗਵਾਈ..ਹਵਾ ਨੂੰ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਨੇ ਗੁਰੂ ਦਾ ਦਰਜਾ ਦਿੱਤਾ .. ਅਸੀਂ ਇਸ ਦਰਜੇ ਨੂੰ ਬਰਬਾਦ ਕਰਨ ਲਈ ਆਪਣੇ ਹੱਥਾਂ 'ਚ ਤੀਲੀਆਂ ਲੈ ਕੇ ਅਪਣੇ ਬੱਚਿਆਂ ਦੇ ਹਿੱਸੇ ਦੀ ਆਕਸੀਜਨ ਨੂੰ ਖਤਮ ਕਰਨ ਲੱਗੇ… pic.twitter.com/JHzshx4fhs — Bhagwant Mann (@BhagwantMann) November 4, 2023 × What happened? The Punjab Police have now registered a case against the farmers seen in the viral video. The video shows the official's hand being held by two farmers as they force him to set the stubble on fire with a matchstick. Bathinda Senior Superintendent of Police Gulneet Singh Khurana said that after the video of the incident went viral on social media, police registered a case against the farmers. Also watch | Delhi AQI: Air pollution in India's New Delhi turns 'severe' × He added that the police are searching for these farmers to arrest them. Bathinda Deputy Commissioner Showkat Ahmad Parray on Saturday (Nov 4) said he had written to the SSP to register a First Information Report against the farmers for preventing the official from discharging his duty. Parray said the official was surrounded by a group of 50-60 farmers with allegiance to a farmers' association, took him to a nearby field and forced him to put a heap of stubble on fire. Also read | Data Lab: Delhi leads October pollution among major Indian cities. What awaits in the Diwali month? "When he (official) was mobbed, what option he could have. He had no choice," DC Parray said. "I am also visiting the village myself. We will not let it go way. Lawlessness is not something that we will tolerate," said the DC. The burning of stubble in Punjab and Haryana's farmlands is one of the foremost reasons behind hazardous increase in air pollution levels in New Delhi at the onset of winter. According to Punjab Remote Sensing Centre data, a total of 12,813 stubble-burning incidents have been reported till Friday (Nov 3).

Video: As pollution chokes Delhi-NCR, Punjab officer enforcing regulations forced to burn stubble

India's national capital Delhi is bracing for the smog in winters in coming two months, and considering this CM Arvind Kejriwal has come up with a 15 points plan to deal with air pollution. Kejriwal said 13 hotspots have been identified across the city where pollution level is high and an action plan is made for each. Thirteen special teams have been also formed.&nbsp;

Some of the hotspots are Anand Vihar, Wazirabad, Vivek Vihar, Wazirpur, Ashok Vihar, Dwarka, Jahangirpuri, Rohini, Bawana, Narela, and Mundka.&nbsp;

<h2>Delhi's winter action plan</h2>

Last year bio-decomposer was used to prevent stubble burning in 4400 acres, this year it will be used more widely, the CM said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-doctors-in-punjab-remove-earphones-screws-and-other-objects-from-mans-stomach-640879">Doctors in Punjab remove earphones, screws and other objects from man’s stomach</a>

Bio-decomposer, developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), is a microbial solution that can turn paddy straw into manure in 15-20 days.

"To reduce dust pollution, 591 teams have been formed to monitor construction sites. Sites more than 500 square metres will have to register on the web portal and it will be mandatory for sites more than 5000 square metres to install anti-smog guns," the chief minister added.

<h2>Vehicle pollution to be measured</h2>

To curb pollution caused by petrol and diesel vehicles, 385 teams have been formed which will operate 530 water sprinkling vehicles and 258 anti-smog guns on the roads in winter.

Pollution related complaints can be made on the Green Delhi app and about 70,000 complaints have been filed already, of which 90 per cent have been dealt with, Kejriwal added. A website has also been created to track the real-time pollution levels.

Watch:&nbsp;Decoding India's rise in global innovation index

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<h2>Ban on firecrackers</h2>

At a press conference, CM stressed on the ban on firecrackers in the national capital and said the Delhi government was collaborating with neighbouring states to reduce the levels of pollution.

“An E-waste park has been made in the Holambi Kalan area. It is our appeal to the people coming from nearby states to take steps to stop pollution. Industries in the surrounding areas of Delhi should shift&nbsp;to PNG. Zig-zag technique should be taught in brick kilns to control pollution,” he further said.&nbsp;

Kejriwal also advised industries in neighbouring states to switch to Piped Natural Gas (PNG).

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&nbsp;

India's national capital Delhi is bracing for the smog in winters in coming two months, and considering this CM Arvind Kejriwal has come up with a 15 points plan to deal with air pollution.

India's national capital Delhi is bracing for the smog in winters in coming two months, and considering this CM Arvind Kejriwal has come up with a 15 points plan to deal with air pollution. Kejriwal said 13 hotspots have been identified across the city where pollution level is high and an action plan is made for each. Thirteen special teams have been also formed. Some of the hotspots are Anand Vihar, Wazirabad, Vivek Vihar, Wazirpur, Ashok Vihar, Dwarka, Jahangirpuri, Rohini, Bawana, Narela, and Mundka. Delhi's winter action plan Last year bio-decomposer was used to prevent stubble burning in 4400 acres, this year it will be used more widely, the CM said. Also read: Doctors in Punjab remove earphones, screws and other objects from man’s stomach Bio-decomposer, developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), is a microbial solution that can turn paddy straw into manure in 15-20 days. "To reduce dust pollution, 591 teams have been formed to monitor construction sites. Sites more than 500 square metres will have to register on the web portal and it will be mandatory for sites more than 5000 square metres to install anti-smog guns," the chief minister added. Vehicle pollution to be measured To curb pollution caused by petrol and diesel vehicles, 385 teams have been formed which will operate 530 water sprinkling vehicles and 258 anti-smog guns on the roads in winter. Pollution related complaints can be made on the Green Delhi app and about 70,000 complaints have been filed already, of which 90 per cent have been dealt with, Kejriwal added. A website has also been created to track the real-time pollution levels. Watch: Decoding India's rise in global innovation index × Ban on firecrackers At a press conference, CM stressed on the ban on firecrackers in the national capital and said the Delhi government was collaborating with neighbouring states to reduce the levels of pollution. “An E-waste park has been made in the Holambi Kalan area. It is our appeal to the people coming from nearby states to take steps to stop pollution. Industries in the surrounding areas of Delhi should shift to PNG. Zig-zag technique should be taught in brick kilns to control pollution,” he further said. Kejriwal also advised industries in neighbouring states to switch to Piped Natural Gas (PNG). WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Delhi air pollution: CM Arvind Kejriwal drafts 15-point winter action plan

For past many years, as temperatures edge to hit winter in norther India, the air quality in India's capital New Delhi and adjoining National Capital Region becomes either worse or at best one of the worst in the world. To combat the hazardous air quality during winters, the specified anti-pollution body has revised Graded Response Action Plan.&nbsp;

"The Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR &amp; Adjoining Areas (CAQM) has taken significant efforts to abate air pollution and strategically address the air pollution related challenges across different sectors in the region," an official readout stated.&nbsp;

The revision comes as authorities learn new lessons on air quality management 'based on the experience and learning of last year'.

<h2>Graded Response Action Plan in Delhi-NCR</h2>

In Delhi, the GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) categorises adverse air quality into four stages:

Stage I - 'Poor' (AQI 201-300) 
Stage II - 'Very Poor' (AQI 301-400) 
Stage III - 'Severe' (AQI 401-450) 
Stage IV - 'Severe Plus' (AQI greater than 450)

The updated GRAP now suggests strict adherence to Supreme Court and National Green Tribunal orders regarding older diesel and petrol vehicles under Stage 1.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-adjudged-worlds-most-polluted-city-in-world-534913">Air quality continues to worsen in Delhi, adjudged 'world’s most polluted city'</a>

Additionally, it proposes a ban on coal and firewood usage in eateries, restaurants, and hotels once the AQI crosses the 200 mark. Previously, this measure was implemented under Stage 2 (AQI above 300).

For Stage 2, the revised GRAP recommends rigorous actions to combat air pollution at identified hotspots in the region.

Under Stage 3, states are required to impose strict restrictions on BS III petrol and BS IV diesel four-wheelers in certain areas and may suspend physical classes in schools for primary grade children up to Class 5.

When the AQI exceeds 450, four-wheelers registered outside Delhi, except for electric vehicles, CNG vehicles, and BS-VI diesel vehicles, will not be allowed to enter the city, with some exemptions for essential commodity transport and essential services.

Also watch |&nbsp;WION Dispatch | India: Pollution choking New Delhi again, thick smog covers national capital

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All other existing measures under different stages of GRAP will continue. Delhi and its neighboring areas often experience a layer of pungent haze during peak winters due to unfavorable meteorological conditions and stubble burning.

(With inputs from agencies)

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For past many years, as temperatures edge to hit winter in norther India, the air quality in India's capital New Delhi and adjoining National Capital Region becomes either worse or at best one of the worst in the world.

For past many years, as temperatures edge to hit winter in norther India, the air quality in India's capital New Delhi and adjoining National Capital Region becomes either worse or at best one of the worst in the world. To combat the hazardous air quality during winters, the specified anti-pollution body has revised Graded Response Action Plan. "The Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR & Adjoining Areas (CAQM) has taken significant efforts to abate air pollution and strategically address the air pollution related challenges across different sectors in the region," an official readout stated. The revision comes as authorities learn new lessons on air quality management 'based on the experience and learning of last year'. Graded Response Action Plan in Delhi-NCR In Delhi, the GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) categorises adverse air quality into four stages: Stage I - 'Poor' (AQI 201-300) Stage II - 'Very Poor' (AQI 301-400) Stage III - 'Severe' (AQI 401-450) Stage IV - 'Severe Plus' (AQI greater than 450) The updated GRAP now suggests strict adherence to Supreme Court and National Green Tribunal orders regarding older diesel and petrol vehicles under Stage 1. Also read | Air quality continues to worsen in Delhi, adjudged 'world’s most polluted city' Additionally, it proposes a ban on coal and firewood usage in eateries, restaurants, and hotels once the AQI crosses the 200 mark. Previously, this measure was implemented under Stage 2 (AQI above 300). For Stage 2, the revised GRAP recommends rigorous actions to combat air pollution at identified hotspots in the region. Under Stage 3, states are required to impose strict restrictions on BS III petrol and BS IV diesel four-wheelers in certain areas and may suspend physical classes in schools for primary grade children up to Class 5. When the AQI exceeds 450, four-wheelers registered outside Delhi, except for electric vehicles, CNG vehicles, and BS-VI diesel vehicles, will not be allowed to enter the city, with some exemptions for essential commodity transport and essential services. Also watch | WION Dispatch | India: Pollution choking New Delhi again, thick smog covers national capital × All other existing measures under different stages of GRAP will continue. Delhi and its neighboring areas often experience a layer of pungent haze during peak winters due to unfavorable meteorological conditions and stubble burning. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India's anti-pollution body revamps action-plan to combat air quality in Delhi-NCR

Air quality index (AQI) in India's capital city has plummeted again, and Delhi has returned to breathing polluted air. Meanwhile, there has been a spike in the cancer-causing pollutant PM 2.5. It penetrates the lungs and causes chronic respiratory illness.&nbsp;The PM 2.5 level in Delhi's air is nearly 100 times above the safe limit, as per World Health Organisation.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/trending/air-india-passenger-accused-of-urinating-on-woman-co-flyer-sent-to-judicial-custody-for-14-days-550288">Air India passenger accused of urinating on woman co-flyer sent to judicial custody for 14-days</a>

Despite the measures taken by Delhi authorities to monitor pollution levels in India's capital city, the air quality remains shoddy. As per predictions, the air quality is likely to worsen in Delhi, due to which authorities have set more restrictions. 
 
The officials at the Met office in Delhi said the double whammy of a poor air quality and ongoing severe cold wave will only add to the woes and Delhi's air quality will hover in the 'very poor' category&nbsp;over the next three to four days.

As per the Centre's air quality panel, CAQM, the air quality in the dark red zones of Delhi will plunge in the upcoming days. Moreover, dense fog, calm winds, and low temperatures will accompany inferior air quality.&nbsp;

CAQM has banned coal's industrial usage and has asked them to swap it for cleaner fuel. But people frequently use fuels like biomass and metallurgical coke in India's capital city.

Watch |&nbsp;China: Covid-19 cases on the rise, WHO urges to share real-time data

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Due to the deteriorating air quality in Delhi, people are also questioning CAQM's Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). On January 4, CAQM relaxed tight restrictions quoting the predictions by the Indian Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology.

Although the ban on coal is effective, the administration must look into a regional clean-up of Delhi, reports say. Such measures will help the industries benefit from their switch to natural gas.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Air quality index (AQI) in India's capital city has plummeted again, and Delhi has returned to breathing polluted air. Meanwhile, there has been a spike in the cancer-causing pollutant PM 2.

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

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

The air quality in India’s national capital New Delhi remained in the “poor” category on Thursday, according to weather forecasters. The city has been adjudged the most polluted in the world in recent times.

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi was at 249 on Thursday.

A day before, the air quality was at 'moderate' category. If the AQI is between 0 and 100, it's considered good; 100 to 200 is moderate; from 200 to 300 is poor; and from 300 to 400 is very poor.

If the AQI is above the 400 mark, then the air quality is considered severe and poisonous.

The onset of winter season brings down the quality of air every year in Delhi. A thick shroud of smog engulfs the entire city and nearby National Capital Region at this time.

The stubble burning by farmers from neighbouring Punjab is considered to be the prime culprit for the unbreathable air in Delhi.

The air quality in the national capital is so bad that data released by the World of Statistics has been declared Delhi to be the most polluted city in 2021.

The World of Statistics on November 16, 2022, shared a list of “Most Polluted Capital Cities 2021” according to which the national capital is sitting at the top in the list of 10 capital cities.&nbsp;

The data, which takes into account the air quality till November 2022, was released on November 14.

As per the list, here are the top 10 cities&nbsp;which have been declared the most polluted.

1. Delhi 

2. Dhaka

3. N’Djamena

4. Dushanbe

5. Muscat

6. Kathmandu

7. Manama&nbsp;

8. Baghdad

9. Bishkek

10. Tashkent

For several years, Delhi has been grappling with air pollution. Several knee-jerk measures were taken, such as banning construction activities and using smog guns, but with no successful results.

According to a WHO survey of 1,650 world cities, and a survey of 7,000 world cities by the US-based Health Effects Institute in August 2022, Delhi’s air quality is dubbed the worst in the world.

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The air quality in India’s national capital New Delhi remained in the “poor” category on Thursday, according to weather forecasters. The city has been adjudged the most polluted in the world in recent times.

The air quality in India’s national capital New Delhi remained in the “poor” category on Thursday, according to weather forecasters. The city has been adjudged the most polluted in the world in recent times. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi was at 249 on Thursday. A day before, the air quality was at 'moderate' category. If the AQI is between 0 and 100, it's considered good; 100 to 200 is moderate; from 200 to 300 is poor; and from 300 to 400 is very poor. If the AQI is above the 400 mark, then the air quality is considered severe and poisonous. The onset of winter season brings down the quality of air every year in Delhi. A thick shroud of smog engulfs the entire city and nearby National Capital Region at this time. The stubble burning by farmers from neighbouring Punjab is considered to be the prime culprit for the unbreathable air in Delhi. The air quality in the national capital is so bad that data released by the World of Statistics has been declared Delhi to be the most polluted city in 2021. The World of Statistics on November 16, 2022, shared a list of “Most Polluted Capital Cities 2021” according to which the national capital is sitting at the top in the list of 10 capital cities. The data, which takes into account the air quality till November 2022, was released on November 14. As per the list, here are the top 10 cities which have been declared the most polluted. 1. Delhi 2. Dhaka 3. N’Djamena 4. Dushanbe 5. Muscat 6. Kathmandu 7. Manama 8. Baghdad 9. Bishkek 10. Tashkent For several years, Delhi has been grappling with air pollution. Several knee-jerk measures were taken, such as banning construction activities and using smog guns, but with no successful results. According to a WHO survey of 1,650 world cities, and a survey of 7,000 world cities by the US-based Health Effects Institute in August 2022, Delhi’s air quality is dubbed the worst in the world. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Air quality continues to worsen in Delhi, adjudged 'world’s most polluted city'

India's central government has told the Supreme Court that it is not favour of working from home and prefers the option of carpool.

It comes after the apex court had asked state governments of the country to take solid steps in curbing smog that has increased severely after Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights.

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Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said : ''On work-from-home for central government employees, we have said that work has already suffered due to Covid. The number of central government vehicles in Delhi-NCR is not too high. There are more cons than pros when it comes to WFH... it will have a limited impact. We have advised carpooling.''

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-set-to-seal-3-billion-predator-drone-deal-with-us-by-current-fiscal-429862" hreflang="en">India set to seal $3 billion Predator drone deal with US by current fiscal</a>

State governments in NCR have been directed to allow work from home for at least 50 per cent of their employees in offices in NCR till Sunday and encourage private establishments to follow suit. Trucks carrying non-essential items have been banned from entering Delhi till Sunday.

More children are in hospital with breathing problems as pollution levels remain dangerously high in the city of 20 million.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-how-indias-lunar-orbiter-chandrayaan-2-avoided-collision-with-nasas-lro-429955" hreflang="en">How India’s Lunar Orbiter Chandrayaan-2 avoided Collision with NASA’s LRO</a>

India's capital has shut schools and coal plants as it battles dangerous levels of air pollution in the region.

The move comes after India led the charge at the weekend to weaken anti-coal pledges at the UN COP26 climate summit, with critics saying it prioritised economic growth over the planet's future.

Delhi's air quality improved marginally, registering the 24-hour average air quality index (AQI) at 375 on Wednesday from 403 the day before. Authorities, however, said no major improvement is likely till Sunday.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's central government has told the Supreme Court that it is not favour of working from home and prefers the option of carpool. It comes after the apex court had asked state governments of the country to take solid steps in curbing smog that has increased severely after Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights.

India's central government has told the Supreme Court that it is not favour of working from home and prefers the option of carpool. It comes after the apex court had asked state governments of the country to take solid steps in curbing smog that has increased severely after Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said : ''On work-from-home for central government employees, we have said that work has already suffered due to Covid. The number of central government vehicles in Delhi-NCR is not too high. There are more cons than pros when it comes to WFH... it will have a limited impact. We have advised carpooling.'' Also read | India set to seal $3 billion Predator drone deal with US by current fiscal State governments in NCR have been directed to allow work from home for at least 50 per cent of their employees in offices in NCR till Sunday and encourage private establishments to follow suit. Trucks carrying non-essential items have been banned from entering Delhi till Sunday. More children are in hospital with breathing problems as pollution levels remain dangerously high in the city of 20 million. Also read | How India’s Lunar Orbiter Chandrayaan-2 avoided Collision with NASA’s LRO India's capital has shut schools and coal plants as it battles dangerous levels of air pollution in the region. The move comes after India led the charge at the weekend to weaken anti-coal pledges at the UN COP26 climate summit, with critics saying it prioritised economic growth over the planet's future. Delhi's air quality improved marginally, registering the 24-hour average air quality index (AQI) at 375 on Wednesday from 403 the day before. Authorities, however, said no major improvement is likely till Sunday. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian govt tells Supreme Court it is not in favour of work from home, prefers carpool to curb Delhi pollution

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

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

After India's Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) alerted the Delhi government on the dangerous pollution levels in the capital, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal declared that government employees will operate from home in work from home(WFH) mode as he advised private offices to also exercise the same option.

"Construction activities will not be allowed between November 14-17," the Delhi chief minister said as he announced the closure of schools for a week starting from Monday and asked authorities to operate virtually.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-pollution-situation-very-serious-in-new-delhi-says-indias-cji-nv-ramana-428954">Also Read:&nbsp;Air pollution situation 'very serious’ in New Delhi, says India's CJI NV Ramana</a>

The Delhi chief minister had called an emergency meeting after the Supreme Court had asked authorities to intervene. India's top court said the pollution in the Delhi-NCR region was an "emergency" situation.

"Everybody has the passion of blaming farmers. Have you seen how crackers are being burnt in Delhi for the last seven days? It is an emergency situation, multiple measures are needed to be taken on the ground level," the Supreme Court said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/get-ready-to-implement-emergency-measures-says-pollution-control-board-as-delhis-air-quality-worsens-428879">Also Read:&nbsp;Get ready to implement emergency measures, says Pollution Control Board</a>

The Supreme Court also asked the Delhi government whether the smog towers which were installed recently were in working order. The Delhi government informed the&nbsp;apex court that the smog towers were in working condition.

"There was a suggestion in the Supreme Court over complete lockdown in Delhi if the pollution situation turns worse. We are drafting a proposal," CM Kejriwal said, adding, "A&nbsp;proposal will be discussed with agencies and the Centre, if it happens, construction and vehicular movement will have to be stopped."

(With inputs from Agencies)

After India's Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) alerted the Delhi government on the dangerous pollution levels in the capital, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal declared that government employees will operate from home in work from home(WFH) mode as he advised private offices to also exercise the same option.

After India's Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) alerted the Delhi government on the dangerous pollution levels in the capital, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal declared that government employees will operate from home in work from home(WFH) mode as he advised private offices to also exercise the same option. "Construction activities will not be allowed between November 14-17," the Delhi chief minister said as he announced the closure of schools for a week starting from Monday and asked authorities to operate virtually. Also Read: Air pollution situation 'very serious’ in New Delhi, says India's CJI NV Ramana The Delhi chief minister had called an emergency meeting after the Supreme Court had asked authorities to intervene. India's top court said the pollution in the Delhi-NCR region was an "emergency" situation. "Everybody has the passion of blaming farmers. Have you seen how crackers are being burnt in Delhi for the last seven days? It is an emergency situation, multiple measures are needed to be taken on the ground level," the Supreme Court said. Also Read: Get ready to implement emergency measures, says Pollution Control Board The Supreme Court also asked the Delhi government whether the smog towers which were installed recently were in working order. The Delhi government informed the apex court that the smog towers were in working condition. "There was a suggestion in the Supreme Court over complete lockdown in Delhi if the pollution situation turns worse. We are drafting a proposal," CM Kejriwal said, adding, "A proposal will be discussed with agencies and the Centre, if it happens, construction and vehicular movement will have to be stopped." (With inputs from Agencies)

Schools to be closed, government employees to work from home: Delhi CM Kejriwal issues order on air pollution

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

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

Top doctors have warned elite runners are taking a major health risk by competing in Sunday's New Delhi half-marathon in the midst of a major coronavirus outbreak and soaring air pollution.

Women's marathon world record-holder Brigid Kosgei from Kenya and Ethiopia's two-time men's winner Andamlak Belihu are among the 49 elite athletes running the 21-kilometre (13.1 miles) race, while thousands of amateurs are taking part virtually.

Organisers say the "highest level of safety standards, with bio-secure zones", have been laid on for the race starting at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

But with New Delhi recording more than 500,000 virus cases, and air quality in the world's most polluted capital hovering between 'unhealthy' and 'hazardous', health experts said the athletes should think twice.

"It will be suicidal for runners to run the race this time. We have such high levels of pollution, we have the risk of coronavirus," Arvind Kumar, founder trustee of the Lung Care Foundation, told AFP.

"With the presence of this twin threat if people are still running despite knowing everything, well, I have no words to express my anguish."

"Whether you are an international elite runner or you are a small boy from a village, the damaging potential of a damaging agent remains the same," said the doctor.

Toxic mix

Randeep Guleria, director of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the country's top research body, told AFP that "in an ideal situation" the race should not be run.

"Because of high levels of air pollution, exercising outside in this weather sometimes can lead to aggravation of underlying lung problems," he said.

"Even if you are an elite runner the air pollution would still affect your lung."

Normally thousands of amateurs would also take part, but because of the coronavirus they have been told to run their chosen route between Wednesday and Sunday and chart their time on an app.

Delhi has been hit by a winter pollution crisis each year for the past decade when crop-stubble burning from nearby states, cold temperatures and car and industrial pollution produce a toxic mix.

This year, the Indian capital is also a major concern in the battle against the coronavirus. India is the world's second worst-hit country behind the United States, with about 9.3 million cases.

The city is considering imposing a night-time curfew because of the rising number of cases, according to media reports.

Kosgei, who is visiting India for the first time, acknowledged her concerns about travelling for the race.

"We have definitely been affected by Covid-19. I had to convince my parents and family back home to allow me to visit Delhi for the half-marathon," she said.

"The virus has affected most of the sporting events. But it is important for us to take care of ourselves." 
As in other countries, nearly all sport in India has been cancelled.

After repeated delays, the Indian Premier League cricket went ahead in the United Arab Emirates and the Indian Super League football is being held in a bio-secure "bubble" in Goa.

Top doctors have warned elite runners are taking a major health risk by competing in Sunday's New Delhi half-marathon in the midst of a major coronavirus outbreak and soaring air pollution.

Top doctors have warned elite runners are taking a major health risk by competing in Sunday's New Delhi half-marathon in the midst of a major coronavirus outbreak and soaring air pollution. Women's marathon world record-holder Brigid Kosgei from Kenya and Ethiopia's two-time men's winner Andamlak Belihu are among the 49 elite athletes running the 21-kilometre (13.1 miles) race, while thousands of amateurs are taking part virtually. Organisers say the "highest level of safety standards, with bio-secure zones", have been laid on for the race starting at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. But with New Delhi recording more than 500,000 virus cases, and air quality in the world's most polluted capital hovering between 'unhealthy' and 'hazardous', health experts said the athletes should think twice. "It will be suicidal for runners to run the race this time. We have such high levels of pollution, we have the risk of coronavirus," Arvind Kumar, founder trustee of the Lung Care Foundation, told AFP. "With the presence of this twin threat if people are still running despite knowing everything, well, I have no words to express my anguish." "Whether you are an international elite runner or you are a small boy from a village, the damaging potential of a damaging agent remains the same," said the doctor. Toxic mix Randeep Guleria, director of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the country's top research body, told AFP that "in an ideal situation" the race should not be run. "Because of high levels of air pollution, exercising outside in this weather sometimes can lead to aggravation of underlying lung problems," he said. "Even if you are an elite runner the air pollution would still affect your lung." Normally thousands of amateurs would also take part, but because of the coronavirus they have been told to run their chosen route between Wednesday and Sunday and chart their time on an app. Delhi has been hit by a winter pollution crisis each year for the past decade when crop-stubble burning from nearby states, cold temperatures and car and industrial pollution produce a toxic mix. This year, the Indian capital is also a major concern in the battle against the coronavirus. India is the world's second worst-hit country behind the United States, with about 9.3 million cases. The city is considering imposing a night-time curfew because of the rising number of cases, according to media reports. Kosgei, who is visiting India for the first time, acknowledged her concerns about travelling for the race. "We have definitely been affected by Covid-19. I had to convince my parents and family back home to allow me to visit Delhi for the half-marathon," she said. "The virus has affected most of the sporting events. But it is important for us to take care of ourselves." As in other countries, nearly all sport in India has been cancelled. After repeated delays, the Indian Premier League cricket went ahead in the United Arab Emirates and the Indian Super League football is being held in a bio-secure "bubble" in Goa.

‘Suicidal for runners’: Doctors warn against Delhi Half Marathon

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

WION Wideangle: Fighting Air Pollution

Thousands of Indians in North India, especially the national capital region, woke up on Sunday to toxic air following Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights.

Delhi was blanketed with a thick haze, with the average pollution level in the capital over 9 times what is considered safe by the World Health Organisation.&nbsp;

Revellers on Saturday night defied bans on using firecrackers to celebrate the festival -- imposed by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

The NCR's air pollution typically worsens in October and November due to farmers burning agricultural waste -- known as stubble burning -- in adjoining states, along with coal-fired power plants in surrounding states, traffic fumes and windless days.

The air quality had turned "severe" on Saturday evening with stubble burning accounting for 32 per cent of Delhi's PM2.5 pollution, but firecracker emissions and calm winds made the situation even worse.

The raging coronavirus epidemic, with more than 400,000 confirmed cases in the city of 20 million, has also heightened alarm over the health hazard posed by the choking smog, with doctors warning of a sharp increase in respiratory illnesses.

An average of air quality indices measured at different places within the major cities in these states was higher than last year, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board.

The levels of PM2.5 -- which is about three per cent the diameter of a human hair and can lead to premature deaths from heart and lung diseases -- were 396 microgram per cubic metre ( g/m3) in Delhi-NCR at 6 am, above the emergency threshold of 300 &nbsp;g/m3. The safe limit is 60 g/m3.

PM10 level stood at 543 g/m3 at 6 am, above the emergency threshold of 500 &nbsp;g/m3, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. PM10 levels below 100 &nbsp;g/m3 are considered safe in India.

Delhi Police arrested 10 people and seized 638 kg of firecrackers on Saturday.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) had on Monday imposed a total ban on sale or use of all kinds of firecrackers in the National Capital Region (NCR) from November 9 midnight to November 30 midnight, saying "celebration by crackers is for happiness and not to celebrate deaths and diseases".

According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, SAFAR, the PM2.5 concentration in Delhi on Diwali could have been the &nbsp;lowest &nbsp;in the last four years if there were no fireworks.

The city recorded an overall AQI of 414 at 4 pm on Saturday. It soared to 454 by 10 pm. On Sunday, it stood at 465 at 9 am.

Cities in the states of Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Bihar and New Delhi - which have already been suffering from some of the worst air in the world - saw even higher levels of pollution than on the morning after Diwali last year.

The neighbouring cities of Faridabad (438), Ghaziabad (483), Greater Noida (439), Gurgaon (424) and Noida (466) also recorded their AQI in the severe category.

Delhi recorded a 24-hour average AQI of 337 on Diwali last year (October 27), and 368 and 400 in the next two days. Thereafter, pollution levels remained in the &nbsp;severe &nbsp;category for three days on the trot.

In 2018, the 24-hour average AQI (281) on Diwali was recorded in the poor category. It deteriorated to 390 the next day and remained in the &nbsp;severe &nbsp;category on three consecutive days thereafter.

In 2017, Delhi's 24-hour average AQI on Diwali (October 19) stood at 319. It, however, slipped into the severe zone the next day.

This time, the India Meteorological Department has said that a fresh western disturbance is likely to increase the wind speed and improve the air quality in Delhi-NCR post Diwali (Sunday and Monday).

Light rain is likely on Sunday under the influence of a western disturbance. The air quality is likely to improve due to an expected increase in the wind speed, Kuldeep Srivastava, the head of the IMD's regional forecasting centre, said.

The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi also said the situation is likely to &nbsp;improve significantly &nbsp;on Sunday.&nbsp;

Under the influence of a Western Disturbance, isolated rainfall over plains of northwest India and adjoining central India is likely on Sunday. Generally cloudy sky, light rain, thundershowers accompanied with gusty winds (speed 30-40 kmph) is likely towards afternoon-evening on Sunday, the central agency said. 
&nbsp;

Thousands of Indians in North India, especially the national capital region, woke up on Sunday to toxic air following Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. Delhi was blanketed with a thick haze, with the average pollution level in the capital over 9 times what is considered safe by the World Health Organisation.

Thousands of Indians in North India, especially the national capital region, woke up on Sunday to toxic air following Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. Delhi was blanketed with a thick haze, with the average pollution level in the capital over 9 times what is considered safe by the World Health Organisation. Revellers on Saturday night defied bans on using firecrackers to celebrate the festival -- imposed by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The NCR's air pollution typically worsens in October and November due to farmers burning agricultural waste -- known as stubble burning -- in adjoining states, along with coal-fired power plants in surrounding states, traffic fumes and windless days. The air quality had turned "severe" on Saturday evening with stubble burning accounting for 32 per cent of Delhi's PM2.5 pollution, but firecracker emissions and calm winds made the situation even worse. The raging coronavirus epidemic, with more than 400,000 confirmed cases in the city of 20 million, has also heightened alarm over the health hazard posed by the choking smog, with doctors warning of a sharp increase in respiratory illnesses. An average of air quality indices measured at different places within the major cities in these states was higher than last year, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board. The levels of PM2.5 -- which is about three per cent the diameter of a human hair and can lead to premature deaths from heart and lung diseases -- were 396 microgram per cubic metre ( g/m3) in Delhi-NCR at 6 am, above the emergency threshold of 300 g/m3. The safe limit is 60 g/m3. PM10 level stood at 543 g/m3 at 6 am, above the emergency threshold of 500 g/m3, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. PM10 levels below 100 g/m3 are considered safe in India. Delhi Police arrested 10 people and seized 638 kg of firecrackers on Saturday. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) had on Monday imposed a total ban on sale or use of all kinds of firecrackers in the National Capital Region (NCR) from November 9 midnight to November 30 midnight, saying "celebration by crackers is for happiness and not to celebrate deaths and diseases". According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, SAFAR, the PM2.5 concentration in Delhi on Diwali could have been the lowest in the last four years if there were no fireworks. The city recorded an overall AQI of 414 at 4 pm on Saturday. It soared to 454 by 10 pm. On Sunday, it stood at 465 at 9 am. Cities in the states of Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Bihar and New Delhi - which have already been suffering from some of the worst air in the world - saw even higher levels of pollution than on the morning after Diwali last year. The neighbouring cities of Faridabad (438), Ghaziabad (483), Greater Noida (439), Gurgaon (424) and Noida (466) also recorded their AQI in the severe category. Delhi recorded a 24-hour average AQI of 337 on Diwali last year (October 27), and 368 and 400 in the next two days. Thereafter, pollution levels remained in the severe category for three days on the trot. In 2018, the 24-hour average AQI (281) on Diwali was recorded in the poor category. It deteriorated to 390 the next day and remained in the severe category on three consecutive days thereafter. In 2017, Delhi's 24-hour average AQI on Diwali (October 19) stood at 319. It, however, slipped into the severe zone the next day. This time, the India Meteorological Department has said that a fresh western disturbance is likely to increase the wind speed and improve the air quality in Delhi-NCR post Diwali (Sunday and Monday). Light rain is likely on Sunday under the influence of a western disturbance. The air quality is likely to improve due to an expected increase in the wind speed, Kuldeep Srivastava, the head of the IMD's regional forecasting centre, said. The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi also said the situation is likely to improve significantly on Sunday. Under the influence of a Western Disturbance, isolated rainfall over plains of northwest India and adjoining central India is likely on Sunday. Generally cloudy sky, light rain, thundershowers accompanied with gusty winds (speed 30-40 kmph) is likely towards afternoon-evening on Sunday, the central agency said.

Delhi, neighbouring cities choke on toxic smog day after Diwali festivities

The city recorded an overall Air Quality Index or AQI of 414 on Saturday, which falls in the "severe" category.

Air Quality in Delhi, adjoining areas falls to severe category | Delhi AQI | WION

Choking back exhaust fumes, 22-year-old Rihana Saif stands at a traffic signal in India`s capital New Delhi, holding a sign mounted on a bamboo stick imploring motorists to turn their engines off.

The city has been facing one of its worst spells of air pollution in years, caused by a combination of traffic, factories, construction dust and the widespread burning of agricultural waste in neighbouring states.

Doctors and environmentalists also say the smog is exacerbating the health effects of a third wave of coronavirus infections.

"Sometimes it feels like my eyes are burning, standing in the pollution for so long," Saif said, barely audible over the roar of traffic.

Saif is one of more than two thousand people in the city`s Civil Defence force, which supports the capital`s frontline emergency services, deployed to the "red light on, vehicle off" scheme.

Paid a monthly salary of around $300, they have also been deployed in coronavirus quarantine zones in recent months.

Introduced in October, the Delhi government this week extended the initiative to the end of the month, with Saturday`s Diwali festival likely to lead to a further surge in pollution.

Residents are expected to set off huge amounts of firecrackers, despite a ban on their sale in the region surrounding the capital.

Authorities have also experimented with "smog guns" that mist the air, in an attempt to tamp down clouds of toxic dust.

But pollution in some areas of the capital is still more than eight times the World Health Organization`s permitted limit.

The Delhi government has said the traffic campaign is to raise awareness about pollution, and turning off engines is voluntary.

Many motorists leave their engines idling, shaking their heads in disbelief when asked if they think the scheme will help.

"It`s a waste of public money," said 62-year-old N.S. Rathur, a thin rag covering his mouth as he waited on his motorcycle. "There`s no difference at all."

Choking back exhaust fumes, 22-year-old Rihana Saif stands at a traffic signal in India`s capital New Delhi, holding a sign mounted on a bamboo stick imploring motorists to turn their engines off.

Choking back exhaust fumes, 22-year-old Rihana Saif stands at a traffic signal in India`s capital New Delhi, holding a sign mounted on a bamboo stick imploring motorists to turn their engines off. The city has been facing one of its worst spells of air pollution in years, caused by a combination of traffic, factories, construction dust and the widespread burning of agricultural waste in neighbouring states. Doctors and environmentalists also say the smog is exacerbating the health effects of a third wave of coronavirus infections. "Sometimes it feels like my eyes are burning, standing in the pollution for so long," Saif said, barely audible over the roar of traffic. Saif is one of more than two thousand people in the city`s Civil Defence force, which supports the capital`s frontline emergency services, deployed to the "red light on, vehicle off" scheme. Paid a monthly salary of around $300, they have also been deployed in coronavirus quarantine zones in recent months. Introduced in October, the Delhi government this week extended the initiative to the end of the month, with Saturday`s Diwali festival likely to lead to a further surge in pollution. Residents are expected to set off huge amounts of firecrackers, despite a ban on their sale in the region surrounding the capital. Authorities have also experimented with "smog guns" that mist the air, in an attempt to tamp down clouds of toxic dust. But pollution in some areas of the capital is still more than eight times the World Health Organization`s permitted limit. The Delhi government has said the traffic campaign is to raise awareness about pollution, and turning off engines is voluntary. Many motorists leave their engines idling, shaking their heads in disbelief when asked if they think the scheme will help. "It`s a waste of public money," said 62-year-old N.S. Rathur, a thin rag covering his mouth as he waited on his motorcycle. "There`s no difference at all."

Red light? Then turn engine off, Delhi urges motorists amid heavy pollution

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

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

As winter begins to set in the country, the air quality index in Delhi-NCR dipped to 999 meaning "severe&nbsp;category" on Wednesday.

The deteriorating air quality index comes over a week ahead of Diwali when the capital experiences greater health hazard amid the festive season.

The fall in air quality index comes amid reports of stubble burning in neighbouring states of Delhi-NCR.

In fact, the air quality in the national capital has remained in the 'very poor' category during the week, according to data released by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

On Tuesday, the AQI index of Delhi was 371 according to CPCB with areas around ITO, Pragati Maidan and Commonwealth Games village worst affected.

According to CPCB guidilines, an AQI between 0-50 is marked "good", 51-100 is categories as "satisfactory", 101-200 is marked "moderate", 201-300 is "poor", 301-400 is "very poor" and 401-500 is considered "severe".

As winter begins to set in the country, the air quality index in Delhi-NCR dipped to 999 meaning "severe category" on Wednesday. The deteriorating air quality index comes over a week ahead of Diwali when the capital experiences greater health hazard amid the festive season.

As winter begins to set in the country, the air quality index in Delhi-NCR dipped to 999 meaning "severe category" on Wednesday. The deteriorating air quality index comes over a week ahead of Diwali when the capital experiences greater health hazard amid the festive season. The fall in air quality index comes amid reports of stubble burning in neighbouring states of Delhi-NCR. In fact, the air quality in the national capital has remained in the 'very poor' category during the week, according to data released by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). On Tuesday, the AQI index of Delhi was 371 according to CPCB with areas around ITO, Pragati Maidan and Commonwealth Games village worst affected. According to CPCB guidilines, an AQI between 0-50 is marked "good", 51-100 is categories as "satisfactory", 101-200 is marked "moderate", 201-300 is "poor", 301-400 is "very poor" and 401-500 is considered "severe".

Before Diwali, Delhi's air quality index turns 'severe' as winter settles in

The national capital's air quality slipped back into the ''very poor''&nbsp;category again on Tuesday after recording a marginal improvement over the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

Officials at the India Meteorological Department said the air quality had improved on Monday with high wind speed aiding dispersion of pollutants. However, stagnant night-time conditions led to the accumulation of pollutants.

The city recorded an air quality index (AQI) of 332 at 10 am. The 24-hour average (AQI) was 293, which falls in the "poor" category. 
It was 364 on Sunday, with stubble burning contributing 40 percent to Delhi's pollution.

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate',201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'.

The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi said a ''significantly&nbsp;large number of fires'' were observed over Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh on Sunday which is likely to impact the air quality in Delhi-NCR and northwest India on Tuesday and Wednesday.

According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, SAFAR, the share of stubble burning in Delhi's pollution was 16 percent on Monday.

It had soared to 40 percent on Sunday, the maximum so far this season.

Stubble burning accounted for 32 percent of Delhi's PM2.5 pollution on Saturday, 19 percent on Friday and 36 percent on Thursday. 
Last year, the farm fire contribution to Delhi's pollution had peaked to 44 percent on November 1, according to SAFAR data.

According to the India Meteorological Department, the predominant wind direction was northwesterly and the maximum wind speed was 8 kilometers per hour on Tuesday.The city recorded a minimum temperature of 10 degrees Celsius, the lowest in the season so far.

Calm winds and low temperatures trap pollutants close to the ground, while favourable wind speed helps in their dispersion.

According to the Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, the city's ventilation index ''a product of mixing depth and average wind speed,&nbsp;was expected to be around 8,000 meter square per second on Tuesday&nbsp;favourable for dispersion of pollutants.''

Mixing depth is the vertical height in which pollutants are suspended in the air. It reduces on cold days with calm wind speed.

A ventilation index lower than 6,000 sqm/second, with the average wind speed less than 10 kmph, is unfavourable for dispersal of pollutants.

In a bid to control pollution, the Delhi government has also said that only 'green firecrackers'&nbsp;can be manufactured, sold, and used in the national capital in accordance with a 2018 Supreme Court order.

'Green crackers' are not as polluting as the conventional types of?firecrackers?and they contain at least 30 percent less particulate matter such as Sulphur Dioxide and Nitrogen Oxide.

Fireworks can take place between 8 pm and 10 pm only on festivals like Diwali and Gurpurab etc.On Christmas eve and New Year eve, it would be from 11:55 pm till 12:30 am only, according to the Delhi Pollution Control Committee.

The National Green Tribunal has also issued notice to the Centre, Central Pollution Control Board, and the governments of Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, asking if crackers could be banned between November 7 and November 30 in the interest of public health and environment.

The national capital's air quality slipped back into the ''very poor'' category again on Tuesday after recording a marginal improvement over the last 24 hours. Officials at the India Meteorological Department said the air quality had improved on Monday with high wind speed aiding dispersion of pollutants.

The national capital's air quality slipped back into the ''very poor'' category again on Tuesday after recording a marginal improvement over the last 24 hours. Officials at the India Meteorological Department said the air quality had improved on Monday with high wind speed aiding dispersion of pollutants. However, stagnant night-time conditions led to the accumulation of pollutants. The city recorded an air quality index (AQI) of 332 at 10 am. The 24-hour average (AQI) was 293, which falls in the "poor" category. It was 364 on Sunday, with stubble burning contributing 40 percent to Delhi's pollution. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate',201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'. The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi said a ''significantly large number of fires'' were observed over Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh on Sunday which is likely to impact the air quality in Delhi-NCR and northwest India on Tuesday and Wednesday. According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, SAFAR, the share of stubble burning in Delhi's pollution was 16 percent on Monday. It had soared to 40 percent on Sunday, the maximum so far this season. Stubble burning accounted for 32 percent of Delhi's PM2.5 pollution on Saturday, 19 percent on Friday and 36 percent on Thursday. Last year, the farm fire contribution to Delhi's pollution had peaked to 44 percent on November 1, according to SAFAR data. According to the India Meteorological Department, the predominant wind direction was northwesterly and the maximum wind speed was 8 kilometers per hour on Tuesday.The city recorded a minimum temperature of 10 degrees Celsius, the lowest in the season so far. Calm winds and low temperatures trap pollutants close to the ground, while favourable wind speed helps in their dispersion. According to the Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, the city's ventilation index ''a product of mixing depth and average wind speed, was expected to be around 8,000 meter square per second on Tuesday favourable for dispersion of pollutants.'' Mixing depth is the vertical height in which pollutants are suspended in the air. It reduces on cold days with calm wind speed. A ventilation index lower than 6,000 sqm/second, with the average wind speed less than 10 kmph, is unfavourable for dispersal of pollutants. In a bid to control pollution, the Delhi government has also said that only 'green firecrackers' can be manufactured, sold, and used in the national capital in accordance with a 2018 Supreme Court order. 'Green crackers' are not as polluting as the conventional types of?firecrackers?and they contain at least 30 percent less particulate matter such as Sulphur Dioxide and Nitrogen Oxide. Fireworks can take place between 8 pm and 10 pm only on festivals like Diwali and Gurpurab etc.On Christmas eve and New Year eve, it would be from 11:55 pm till 12:30 am only, according to the Delhi Pollution Control Committee. The National Green Tribunal has also issued notice to the Centre, Central Pollution Control Board, and the governments of Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, asking if crackers could be banned between November 7 and November 30 in the interest of public health and environment.

Delhi's air quality turns 'very poor' after marginal improvement

A day after hundreds of effigies of demon king Ravana were burnt in the national capital on the occasion of Dussehra, the air quality of the region has worsened.

Air Quality in New Delhi Worsens After Dussehra celebrations

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

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

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

'Very poor' air continues to trouble Delhi residents

Pollution levels dipped slightly in the national capital on Tuesday morning due to favourable wind speed, though the air quality was still in the "poor" category.

The Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, SAFAR, said the air quality index (AQI) was likely to slip to the "very poor" category by Wednesday due to a change in the wind direction and a reduction in the wind speed.

The city recorded an air quality index (AQI) of 227 at 9 am on Tuesday. The 24-hour average AQI was 244 on Monday. It was 254 on Sunday and 287 on Saturday.

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'.

Calm winds and low temperatures allow the accumulation of pollutants, while high wind speed helps in their dispersion.

Expecting further deterioration in the air quality in the coming days, the Supreme Court-mandated Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) on Monday asked Uttar Pradesh and Haryana governments to be ready to close thermal power plants that do not meet the standards laid down in 2015.

In separate letters, EPCA chief Bhure Lal asked the two-state governments to review the preparedness for closing thermal power plants and to inform the pollution watchdog about it, as well as the steps that will be taken to ensure compliance with the necessary shut down during the peak winter period.

SAFAR said a change in surface wind direction is expected by early Wednesday which is "likely to bring calm surface wind conditions, leading to low ventilation and deterioration of AQI". "Very poor AQI is predicted for Wednesday and Thursday," it said.

The stubble fire count around Haryana, Punjab, and neighbouring regions stood at 1,090 on Monday. The share of farm fires in Delhi's PM2.5 pollution stood at 10 per cent.

"Though transport-level wind direction is favourable, an increase in the wind speed and local surface winds led to a decrease in stubble (burning) contribution in Delhi's PM2.5," SAFAR said.

The share of stubble burning in Delhi's PM2.5 pollution stood at 17 per cent on Sunday. It was 19 per cent on Saturday, 18 per cent on Friday, around one per cent on Wednesday and around three per cent on Tuesday, Monday and Sunday.

On Monday, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal requested Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar to hold monthly meetings with the CMs of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and UP to curb air pollution, saying there is a lack of political will to address the problem of stubble burning.

In a virtual press briefing, he said the affected states have been unable to find a solution to stop stubble burning and prevent air pollution. "I believe pollution due to stubble burning can be controlled in a short span of time. But a lack of political will is visible in doing that."

Environment Minister Gopal Rai said the Delhi government will deploy 2,500 environment marshals across the city to generate awareness about its recently launched anti-pollution campaign, "Red Light On, Gaadi Off".

He also said a meeting of environment ministers of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh with the Centre must be held every 15 days to discuss matters pertaining to pollution and stubble burning.

Such meetings will help in improving coordination between the states, he said.

Pollution levels dipped slightly in the national capital on Tuesday morning due to favourable wind speed, though the air quality was still in the "poor" category.

Pollution levels dipped slightly in the national capital on Tuesday morning due to favourable wind speed, though the air quality was still in the "poor" category. The Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, SAFAR, said the air quality index (AQI) was likely to slip to the "very poor" category by Wednesday due to a change in the wind direction and a reduction in the wind speed. The city recorded an air quality index (AQI) of 227 at 9 am on Tuesday. The 24-hour average AQI was 244 on Monday. It was 254 on Sunday and 287 on Saturday. 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'. Calm winds and low temperatures allow the accumulation of pollutants, while high wind speed helps in their dispersion. Expecting further deterioration in the air quality in the coming days, the Supreme Court-mandated Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) on Monday asked Uttar Pradesh and Haryana governments to be ready to close thermal power plants that do not meet the standards laid down in 2015. In separate letters, EPCA chief Bhure Lal asked the two-state governments to review the preparedness for closing thermal power plants and to inform the pollution watchdog about it, as well as the steps that will be taken to ensure compliance with the necessary shut down during the peak winter period. SAFAR said a change in surface wind direction is expected by early Wednesday which is "likely to bring calm surface wind conditions, leading to low ventilation and deterioration of AQI". "Very poor AQI is predicted for Wednesday and Thursday," it said. The stubble fire count around Haryana, Punjab, and neighbouring regions stood at 1,090 on Monday. The share of farm fires in Delhi's PM2.5 pollution stood at 10 per cent. "Though transport-level wind direction is favourable, an increase in the wind speed and local surface winds led to a decrease in stubble (burning) contribution in Delhi's PM2.5," SAFAR said. The share of stubble burning in Delhi's PM2.5 pollution stood at 17 per cent on Sunday. It was 19 per cent on Saturday, 18 per cent on Friday, around one per cent on Wednesday and around three per cent on Tuesday, Monday and Sunday. On Monday, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal requested Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar to hold monthly meetings with the CMs of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and UP to curb air pollution, saying there is a lack of political will to address the problem of stubble burning. In a virtual press briefing, he said the affected states have been unable to find a solution to stop stubble burning and prevent air pollution. "I believe pollution due to stubble burning can be controlled in a short span of time. But a lack of political will is visible in doing that." Environment Minister Gopal Rai said the Delhi government will deploy 2,500 environment marshals across the city to generate awareness about its recently launched anti-pollution campaign, "Red Light On, Gaadi Off". He also said a meeting of environment ministers of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh with the Centre must be held every 15 days to discuss matters pertaining to pollution and stubble burning. Such meetings will help in improving coordination between the states, he said.

Delhi's air quality improves marginally as wind speed picks up

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