Oil and chemical spills are among the worst Marine disasters in the world. From economy to ecology oil spills have in fact adversely affected the enviournment. India is the world's third largest importer of crude oil and the sixth largest importer of chemicals with large tanker ships bringing in high volumes of this crude oil and chemicals into Indian ports.

Maritime pollution becomes a major threat to enviournment, ecology and economy | WIONDispatch

<p>Air Quality Index (AQI) in the Indian capital Delhi deteriorated more notches on Friday (Nov 24) as it entered into the 'severe' category. AQI in Delhi was recorded at 401 at 8 am Friday (Nov 24), as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This prompted officials to hold a review meeting to address the situation and strategise accordingly.&nbsp;The air quality was in the 'very poor' category for about a week until Thursday (Nov 23).</p>

<p>Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai gave details of inputs from scientists about the cause of Delhi's worsening air quality. After the meeting, he said that vehicle pollution and biomass burning are contributing to increased pollution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-soon-greenlight-three-mega-defence-projects-report-662290">India to soon greenlight three mega defence projects: Report</a></p>

<p>Acting to cater to the plummeting air quality, the minister issued directives to the transport department for strict monitoring of BS-IV diesel and BS-III petrol vehicles. While saying that the stubble-burning incidents are "very few" now, he pointed out that the level of pollution is still rising.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttarakhand-tunnel-rescue-is-like-the-finest-heart-surgery-in-himalayas-says-arnold-dix-662295">Uttarakhand tunnel rescue is like the 'finest heart surgery' in Himalayas, says expert Arnold Dix</a></p>

<p>"Scientists reported 2-3 factors for this. The first is that vehicle pollution's contribution is 36 percent. The second factor is biomass burning... We made some major decisions after seeing this. To control vehicle pollution, we issued the rules of GRAP 3... To control biomass burning, we have directed the related organisations to monitor this especially. Biomass burning will increase as the winter increases... Third, we also discussed the future situation."</p>

<p>Speaking of the projections in the air quality for the next two days, the minister said that "it is expected that the situation will remain the same. "It is possible after November 27 that there will be light rain and the speed of the wind will increase..." the minister added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Very poor' air quality in neighbouring areas</strong></h2>

<p>Delhi continues to breathe toxic air and the AQI in areas like Anand Vihar, RK Puram, and Alipur were recorded at 418, 424 and 434, respectively. With this, the air quality in the neighbouring areas stands in the 'very poor' category.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jk-encounter-indian-army-and-police-pay-floral-tributes-to-5-martyred-army-personnel-662298">J&amp;K encounter: Indian Army and Police pay floral tributes to 5 martyred Army personnel</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jk-encounter-indian-army-and-police-pay-floral-tributes-to-5-martyred-army-personnel-662298/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Noida Sector 125 recorded AQI at 353 while Sector 62 and Sector 1 had AQI at 367 and 341 respectively.</p>

<p>Air quality of any region is rated on the AQI scale. A rating between 0 to 100 for a region means that the air quality there is 'good'. Moreover, a rating of 100 to 200 labels it 'moderate', a rating of 200 to 300 'poor', a rating of 300 to 400 'very poor', and a rating of 400 to 500 or above 'severe'.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Air Quality Index (AQI) in the Indian capital Delhi deteriorated more notches on Friday (Nov 24) as it entered into the 'severe' category. AQI in Delhi was recorded at 401 at 8 am Friday (Nov 24), as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Air Quality Index (AQI) in the Indian capital Delhi deteriorated more notches on Friday (Nov 24) as it entered into the 'severe' category. AQI in Delhi was recorded at 401 at 8 am Friday (Nov 24), as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This prompted officials to hold a review meeting to address the situation and strategise accordingly. The air quality was in the 'very poor' category for about a week until Thursday (Nov 23). Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai gave details of inputs from scientists about the cause of Delhi's worsening air quality. After the meeting, he said that vehicle pollution and biomass burning are contributing to increased pollution. Also Read | India to soon greenlight three mega defence projects: Report Acting to cater to the plummeting air quality, the minister issued directives to the transport department for strict monitoring of BS-IV diesel and BS-III petrol vehicles. While saying that the stubble-burning incidents are "very few" now, he pointed out that the level of pollution is still rising. Also Read | Uttarakhand tunnel rescue is like the 'finest heart surgery' in Himalayas, says expert Arnold Dix "Scientists reported 2-3 factors for this. The first is that vehicle pollution's contribution is 36 percent. The second factor is biomass burning... We made some major decisions after seeing this. To control vehicle pollution, we issued the rules of GRAP 3... To control biomass burning, we have directed the related organisations to monitor this especially. Biomass burning will increase as the winter increases... Third, we also discussed the future situation." Speaking of the projections in the air quality for the next two days, the minister said that "it is expected that the situation will remain the same. "It is possible after November 27 that there will be light rain and the speed of the wind will increase..." the minister added. 'Very poor' air quality in neighbouring areas Delhi continues to breathe toxic air and the AQI in areas like Anand Vihar, RK Puram, and Alipur were recorded at 418, 424 and 434, respectively. With this, the air quality in the neighbouring areas stands in the 'very poor' category. Watch | J&K encounter: Indian Army and Police pay floral tributes to 5 martyred Army personnel × Noida Sector 125 recorded AQI at 353 while Sector 62 and Sector 1 had AQI at 367 and 341 respectively. Air quality of any region is rated on the AQI scale. A rating between 0 to 100 for a region means that the air quality there is 'good'. Moreover, a rating of 100 to 200 labels it 'moderate', a rating of 200 to 300 'poor', a rating of 300 to 400 'very poor', and a rating of 400 to 500 or above 'severe'. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Delhi AQI gets 'severe', environment minister takes stock at review meet

<p>More than half a million people were killed due to dirty air in the European Union in 2021, as per estimates, and around half of the deaths may have been avoided by decreasing pollution to the limits recommended by doctors.<br />
<br />
The European Environment Agency's researchers attributed 253,000 early deaths to concentrations of fine particles called PM2.5 which breached the maximum guideline limits of the World Health Organization, set at 5µg/m3.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, more than 52,000 deaths were caused by excessive levels of nitrogen dioxide and 22,000 deaths took place due to short-term exposure to increasing levels of ozone.<br />
<br />
“The figures released today by the EEA remind us that air pollution is still the number one environmental health problem in the EU,” said Virginijus Sinkevičius, the EU’s environment commissioner, reported The Guardian.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-breathing-easier-how-to-minimise-the-impact-of-air-pollution-on-lung-health-656062">Breathing easier! How to minimise the impact of air pollution on lung health</a></p>

<p>Doctors said that air pollution is among the major reasons for killing of humans, however there will be a quick drop in death tolls if the economies are cleaned up by the countries.<br />
<br />
Between 2005 and 2021, the number of deaths caused by PM2.5 declined by 41 per cent in the EU and the EU is aiming to meet a target of 55 per cent by the end of the decade.<br />
<br />
The WHO, which tightened the guidelines for air quality in 2021, stated that it is not possible to consider any level of air pollution as safe but added that they have established upper limits for certain pollutants.</p>

<h2><strong>Need to bring pollution levels down: Experts</strong></h2>

<p>In September, the European Parliament voted to align the air quality rules of the EU with the WHO's, however, decided to delay doing so until 2035.<br />
<br />
“The good news is that clean air policy works, and our air quality is improving. But we need to do better still, and bring pollution levels down further,” said Sinkevicius.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;South Asia's air pollution woes</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-asias-air-pollution-woes-659934/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The EEA for the first time estimated the full burden of disease from air pollution. The researchers, while observing the raw death tolls, worked out how many more years the population would be living along with the diseases brought on by polluted air.<br />
<br />
“When people get lung cancer, normally they die very quickly. For other diseases – especially asthma but also diabetes or also chronic obstructive pulmonary disease – there is also an important contribution of this state of living with disability,” said Alberto Gonzalez Ortiz, an EEA air pollution researcher.<br />
<br />
“People can live for a long period in a bad condition. Considering only mortality, we were underestimating the impact of air pollution,” he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


More than half a million people were killed due to dirty air in the European Union in 2021, as per estimates, and around half of the deaths may have been avoided by decreasing pollution to the limits recommended by doctors.

More than half a million people were killed due to dirty air in the European Union in 2021, as per estimates, and around half of the deaths may have been avoided by decreasing pollution to the limits recommended by doctors. The European Environment Agency's researchers attributed 253,000 early deaths to concentrations of fine particles called PM2.5 which breached the maximum guideline limits of the World Health Organization, set at 5µg/m3. Meanwhile, more than 52,000 deaths were caused by excessive levels of nitrogen dioxide and 22,000 deaths took place due to short-term exposure to increasing levels of ozone. “The figures released today by the EEA remind us that air pollution is still the number one environmental health problem in the EU,” said Virginijus Sinkevičius, the EU’s environment commissioner, reported The Guardian. Also read: Breathing easier! How to minimise the impact of air pollution on lung health Doctors said that air pollution is among the major reasons for killing of humans, however there will be a quick drop in death tolls if the economies are cleaned up by the countries. Between 2005 and 2021, the number of deaths caused by PM2.5 declined by 41 per cent in the EU and the EU is aiming to meet a target of 55 per cent by the end of the decade. The WHO, which tightened the guidelines for air quality in 2021, stated that it is not possible to consider any level of air pollution as safe but added that they have established upper limits for certain pollutants. Need to bring pollution levels down: Experts In September, the European Parliament voted to align the air quality rules of the EU with the WHO's, however, decided to delay doing so until 2035. “The good news is that clean air policy works, and our air quality is improving. But we need to do better still, and bring pollution levels down further,” said Sinkevicius. Watch: South Asia's air pollution woes The EEA for the first time estimated the full burden of disease from air pollution. The researchers, while observing the raw death tolls, worked out how many more years the population would be living along with the diseases brought on by polluted air. “When people get lung cancer, normally they die very quickly. For other diseases – especially asthma but also diabetes or also chronic obstructive pulmonary disease – there is also an important contribution of this state of living with disability,” said Alberto Gonzalez Ortiz, an EEA air pollution researcher. “People can live for a long period in a bad condition. Considering only mortality, we were underestimating the impact of air pollution,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

More than 500,000 people killed due to toxic air in EU in 2021, shows data

<p>Delhi saw some improvement in its air quality for some days, but pollution levels still remain high in the air. On Tuesday morning (Nov 21), Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 323 in the “very poor” category, as per the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many places in Delhi crossed the overall AQI mark of 323, like Anand Vihar, where AQI was recorded at 374, in Jahangirpuri, the situation was even worse with AQI at 399. In Moti Bagh, the AQI stood at 370. On Monday, the capital city’s 24-hour average AQI stood at 348, deteriorating from 301 on Sunday.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttarakhand-tunnel-rescue-rescuers-release-first-visuals-of-trapped-workers-taken-via-endoscopic-camera-660965">Uttarakhand tunnel rescue: Rescuers release first visuals of trapped workers taken via endoscopic camera</a></p>

<h2><strong>Slight improvement in air quality but no respite from pollution in the capital</strong></h2>

<p>There was a marginal improvement in Delhi’s air quality on Sunday (Nov 19), but major relief from high pollution levels is unlikely over the next few days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As a result of improved air quality in the capital, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) lifted restrictions imposed under GRAP-IV on Saturday. This allowed trucks and buses to enter the city except for BS-3 and BS-4 petrol and diesel vehicles and lifted the ban on construction work.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nia-books-khalistani-terrorist-gurpatwant-singh-pannun-over-threats-to-air-india-passengers-660827">NIA books Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun over threats to Air India passengers</a></p>

<p>The Centre and Delhi government put restrictions under the GRAP-IV guidelines, which brought slight improvement in the air quality but only in a few areas and that too not for a very long period of time. The consequences of this action were reflected in the city’s poor AQI as recorded on the next day, Sunday.</p>

<p>Gopal Rai said, “Though there has been a constant improvement in air quality, people still need to be aware in order to maintain this improvement," as quoted by ANI.</p>

<p>The air quality forecasts by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) do not indicate any steep decline in the overall air quality of Delhi-NCR in the coming days, but there will be no significant relief from high levels of pollution for the next few days.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Delhi saw some improvement in its air quality for some days, but pollution levels still remain high in the air. On Tuesday morning (Nov 21), Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 323 in the “very poor” category, as per the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR).

Delhi saw some improvement in its air quality for some days, but pollution levels still remain high in the air. On Tuesday morning (Nov 21), Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 323 in the “very poor” category, as per the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR). Many places in Delhi crossed the overall AQI mark of 323, like Anand Vihar, where AQI was recorded at 374, in Jahangirpuri, the situation was even worse with AQI at 399. In Moti Bagh, the AQI stood at 370. On Monday, the capital city’s 24-hour average AQI stood at 348, deteriorating from 301 on Sunday. Also Read | Uttarakhand tunnel rescue: Rescuers release first visuals of trapped workers taken via endoscopic camera Slight improvement in air quality but no respite from pollution in the capital There was a marginal improvement in Delhi’s air quality on Sunday (Nov 19), but major relief from high pollution levels is unlikely over the next few days. As a result of improved air quality in the capital, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) lifted restrictions imposed under GRAP-IV on Saturday. This allowed trucks and buses to enter the city except for BS-3 and BS-4 petrol and diesel vehicles and lifted the ban on construction work. Also Read | NIA books Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun over threats to Air India passengers The Centre and Delhi government put restrictions under the GRAP-IV guidelines, which brought slight improvement in the air quality but only in a few areas and that too not for a very long period of time. The consequences of this action were reflected in the city’s poor AQI as recorded on the next day, Sunday. Gopal Rai said, “Though there has been a constant improvement in air quality, people still need to be aware in order to maintain this improvement," as quoted by ANI. The air quality forecasts by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) do not indicate any steep decline in the overall air quality of Delhi-NCR in the coming days, but there will be no significant relief from high levels of pollution for the next few days. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi air remains in 'very poor' category with AQI at 323; no major relief from pollution for next few days

<p>An analysis by the nonprofit Oxfam International has exposed&nbsp;a stark contrast in carbon emissions, revealing that the wealthiest one per cent globally contribute as much to carbon emissions as the poorest two-thirds, comprising five billion people.</p>

<p>The report stresses the need for tailored government policies to address these disparities in the fight against climate change.</p>

<p>The report, titled "Climate Equality: A Planet for the 99%," draws on research from the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI), highlighting the unequal distribution of emissions associated with different income groups up to 2019. It sheds light on the critical role of income levels in shaping environmental impact.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-without-oxygen-this-is-when-our-planet-will-lose-an-oxygen-rich-atmosphere-660107">Also read |&nbsp;Earth without oxygen? This is when our planet will lose an oxygen-rich atmosphere</a></p>

<h2><b>What are the key findings?</b></h2>

<p>The study discloses that the top one per cent globally, comprising 77 million people, is responsible for 16 per cent&nbsp;of global emissions linked to consumption—equivalent to the emissions of the bottom 66 per cent of the global population by income, or 5.11 billion people.</p>

<p>The income threshold for the global top one per cent varies by country, factoring in purchasing power parity.</p>

<p>Within-country analyses further illuminate the disparities.</p>

<p>In France, for instance, the wealthiest one per cent emits&nbsp;as much carbon in a year as the poorest 50 per cent&nbsp;does in ten years. Bernard Arnault, France's richest individual and founder of Louis Vuitton, has a carbon footprint 1,270 times larger than the average French citizen when excluding emissions tied to investments.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Nations voice their concerns about climate change | WION Climate Tracker</strong></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nations-voice-their-concerns-about-climate-change-wion-climate-tracker-640128/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Max Lawson, co-author of the report, puts emphasis on the necessity for progressive climate policies. His suggestions include imposing taxes on frequent air travel or differentiating taxes on green and non-green investments. The report argues that effective policies should ensure those with higher emissions bear larger sacrifices.</p>

<p>While the study focuses on individual consumption-related carbon, it notes that the super-rich's personal emissions are overshadowed by those resulting from their investments. Billionaires exhibit a higher likelihood of investing in polluting industries than the average investor, as revealed in prior Oxfam research.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An analysis by the nonprofit Oxfam International has exposed a stark contrast in carbon emissions, revealing that the wealthiest one per cent globally contribute as much to carbon emissions as the poorest two-thirds, comprising five billion people.

An analysis by the nonprofit Oxfam International has exposed a stark contrast in carbon emissions, revealing that the wealthiest one per cent globally contribute as much to carbon emissions as the poorest two-thirds, comprising five billion people. The report stresses the need for tailored government policies to address these disparities in the fight against climate change. The report, titled "Climate Equality: A Planet for the 99%," draws on research from the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI), highlighting the unequal distribution of emissions associated with different income groups up to 2019. It sheds light on the critical role of income levels in shaping environmental impact. Also read | Earth without oxygen? This is when our planet will lose an oxygen-rich atmosphere What are the key findings? The study discloses that the top one per cent globally, comprising 77 million people, is responsible for 16 per cent of global emissions linked to consumption—equivalent to the emissions of the bottom 66 per cent of the global population by income, or 5.11 billion people. The income threshold for the global top one per cent varies by country, factoring in purchasing power parity. Within-country analyses further illuminate the disparities. In France, for instance, the wealthiest one per cent emits as much carbon in a year as the poorest 50 per cent does in ten years. Bernard Arnault, France's richest individual and founder of Louis Vuitton, has a carbon footprint 1,270 times larger than the average French citizen when excluding emissions tied to investments. Also watch | Nations voice their concerns about climate change | WION Climate Tracker Max Lawson, co-author of the report, puts emphasis on the necessity for progressive climate policies. His suggestions include imposing taxes on frequent air travel or differentiating taxes on green and non-green investments. The report argues that effective policies should ensure those with higher emissions bear larger sacrifices. While the study focuses on individual consumption-related carbon, it notes that the super-rich's personal emissions are overshadowed by those resulting from their investments. Billionaires exhibit a higher likelihood of investing in polluting industries than the average investor, as revealed in prior Oxfam research. (With inputs from agencies)

Wealthiest 1% emit as much carbon as world's poorest two-thirds, Oxfam report reveals

Delhi India's political pulse in one of the world's most rapidly rising metropolises is grappling with the crisis that spotlights the urgency of addressing climate goals. The city's air quality has plummeted below acceptable standards in recent days landing it on the global list of the most polluted cities in the world. But what's the economic role of this predicament take a look.

Stubble burning: 'Drastic fall in cases'

<p>The air quality index (AQI) of India's capital New Delhi was recorded in the 'very poor' category on Saturday (Nov 18), as the average AQI was 398.<br />
<br />
The AQI remained in the 'severe' category for three days and showed little improvement as it reached the ‘very poor’ category on Saturday.<br />
<br />
As per the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the average AQI of the national capital recorded at 6 am on Saturday remained at 398.<br />
<br />
According to the data of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded at 6 am, the air quality was recorded at 396 in RK Puram, at 465 in the IGI Airport area, at 416 in Nehru Nagar and at 350 in New Moti Bagh, with most of them being in the ‘very poor’ category.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/delhis-air-emergency-needs-a-call-for-sustained-action-beyond-temporary-fixes-658338">Delhi's air emergency needs a call for sustained action beyond temporary fixes</a></p>

<p>The 24-hour average AQI of Delhi, which is recorded at 4 pm every day, remained at 405 on Friday (Nov 17). The average AQI was 419 on Thursday, 401 on Wednesday, 397 on Tuesday, 358 on Monday and 218 on Sunday.<br />
<br />
An AQI falling between zero and 50 is seen as good, 51 and 100 as satisfactory, 101 and 200 as moderate, 201 and 300 as poor, 301 and 400 as very poor, 401 and 450 as severe and above 450 as severe plus.</p>

<h2><strong>Temperature dips in India's national capital</strong></h2>

<p>The national capital's temperature, meanwhile, has started to fall and was recorded at 12 degrees Celsius on Friday (Nov 17).<br />
<br />
A stern directive was issued by the National Green Tribunal to Delhi-NCR authorities to implement stringent measures to improve the air quality index.<br />
<br />
The order of NGT followed its own observations after the remedial actions did not lead to significant improvements in the air quality in various states.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Delhi AQI: Schools likely to remain closed beyond November 18</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-aqi-schools-likely-to-remain-closed-beyond-november-18-659996/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The tribunal appealed to the concerned authorities to reassess their strategies. As per the instructions of the tribunal, a report regarding fresh action is expected to surface on November 20.<br />
<br />
Delhi's Air Quality Early Warning System forecasted that the air quality is likely to remain 'very poor' from November 18 to November 20.<br />
<br />
As per the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology’s Decision Support System, the stubble burning's contribution was PM2.5 levels on Friday (Nov 17), which was around 3.45 per cent less than the 5.85 per cent recorded on the previous day.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The air quality index (AQI) of India's capital New Delhi was recorded in the 'very poor' category on Saturday (Nov 18), as the average AQI was 398. The AQI remained in the 'severe' category for three days and showed little improvement as it reached the ‘very poor’ category on Saturday.

The air quality index (AQI) of India's capital New Delhi was recorded in the 'very poor' category on Saturday (Nov 18), as the average AQI was 398. The AQI remained in the 'severe' category for three days and showed little improvement as it reached the ‘very poor’ category on Saturday. As per the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the average AQI of the national capital recorded at 6 am on Saturday remained at 398. According to the data of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded at 6 am, the air quality was recorded at 396 in RK Puram, at 465 in the IGI Airport area, at 416 in Nehru Nagar and at 350 in New Moti Bagh, with most of them being in the ‘very poor’ category. Also read: Delhi's air emergency needs a call for sustained action beyond temporary fixes The 24-hour average AQI of Delhi, which is recorded at 4 pm every day, remained at 405 on Friday (Nov 17). The average AQI was 419 on Thursday, 401 on Wednesday, 397 on Tuesday, 358 on Monday and 218 on Sunday. An AQI falling between zero and 50 is seen as good, 51 and 100 as satisfactory, 101 and 200 as moderate, 201 and 300 as poor, 301 and 400 as very poor, 401 and 450 as severe and above 450 as severe plus. Temperature dips in India's national capital The national capital's temperature, meanwhile, has started to fall and was recorded at 12 degrees Celsius on Friday (Nov 17). A stern directive was issued by the National Green Tribunal to Delhi-NCR authorities to implement stringent measures to improve the air quality index. The order of NGT followed its own observations after the remedial actions did not lead to significant improvements in the air quality in various states. Watch: Delhi AQI: Schools likely to remain closed beyond November 18 The tribunal appealed to the concerned authorities to reassess their strategies. As per the instructions of the tribunal, a report regarding fresh action is expected to surface on November 20. Delhi's Air Quality Early Warning System forecasted that the air quality is likely to remain 'very poor' from November 18 to November 20. As per the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology’s Decision Support System, the stubble burning's contribution was PM2.5 levels on Friday (Nov 17), which was around 3.45 per cent less than the 5.85 per cent recorded on the previous day. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Delhi's AQI reaches 'very poor' category after recording 'severe' category for three days

The air quality in Delhi and adjoining areas continues to remain in the severe category. Watch this report to know more.

Delhi AQI: Air pollution in Delhi may reduce next week

<p>Diwali is a pan-India festival and perhaps always on the radar of environmentalists and even courts of law for the ensuing pollution. It is true that no Indian can stay away from the festive fervour of Diwali, but air and noise pollution due to firecrackers just maybe something to be introspective about.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NCAP Tracker, which analyses the Indian government's National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), has released a study that found pollution in the first 12 hours after Diwali this year was higher than what it was last year in nine out of 11 state capitals where samples were taken.</p>

<p>NCAP Tracker has said in its report that data for the comparison was taken from Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS) of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) of the Government of India.</p>

<p>The state capitals that were included in the analysis were Bengaluru, Bhopal, Chandigarh, Chennai, Delhi, Gandhinagar, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Mumbai, Kolkata and Patna.</p>

<p>The readings for PM 2.5 (particulate matter) for three days were considered: The day before Diwali, the day of Diwali and the day after Diwali.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | India: New Delhi defies firecracker ban on Diwali</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-new-delhi-defies-firecracker-ban-on-diwali-657962/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>It was found that on November 11, 2023, that is, the day before Diwali, eight out of 11 cities had lower PM 2.5 levels when compared to October 23, 2022, the day before Diwali last year. These cities were Mumbai, Bhopal, Lucknow, Hyderabad, Delhi, Chennai, Chandigarh, and Bengaluru.</p>

<p>On Diwali day this year (Nov 12), PM 2.5 levels in the cities of Bengaluru, Delhi and Gandhinagar were lower than the Diwali day last year (Oct 24).</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-more-indian-cities-join-new-delhi-in-worlds-top-10-most-polluted-cities-after-diwali-658072">After Diwali, two more Indian cities join New Delhi among world's top 10 most polluted</a></strong></p>

<p>However, on the day after Diwali, the picture wasn't as rosy. Barring Bengaluru and Gandhinagar, all other cities registered higher PM 2.5 levels than last year. For all the cities, however, PM 2.5 levels were above the 'good' limit prescribed by the CPCB.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-govt-blames-bjp-for-very-poor-air-quality-says-anti-pollution-curbs-will-continue-658124">Delhi govt blames BJP for ‘very poor’ air quality, says anti-pollution curbs will continue</a></strong></p>

<p>It was observed that on Diwali day, Patna had the highest PM 2.5 levels among the cities. On the next day, however, New Delhi topped the chart with maximum PM 2.5 levels</p>

<p>NCAP Tracker has also noted that the Supreme Court of India's ban on firecrackers was flouted in a number of places.</p>


Diwali is a pan-India festival and perhaps always on the radar of environmentalists and even courts of law for the ensuing pollution. It is true that no Indian can stay away from the festive fervour of Diwali, but air and noise pollution due to firecrackers just maybe something to be introspective about.

Diwali is a pan-India festival and perhaps always on the radar of environmentalists and even courts of law for the ensuing pollution. It is true that no Indian can stay away from the festive fervour of Diwali, but air and noise pollution due to firecrackers just maybe something to be introspective about. NCAP Tracker, which analyses the Indian government's National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), has released a study that found pollution in the first 12 hours after Diwali this year was higher than what it was last year in nine out of 11 state capitals where samples were taken. NCAP Tracker has said in its report that data for the comparison was taken from Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS) of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) of the Government of India. The state capitals that were included in the analysis were Bengaluru, Bhopal, Chandigarh, Chennai, Delhi, Gandhinagar, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Mumbai, Kolkata and Patna. The readings for PM 2.5 (particulate matter) for three days were considered: The day before Diwali, the day of Diwali and the day after Diwali. Watch | India: New Delhi defies firecracker ban on Diwali × It was found that on November 11, 2023, that is, the day before Diwali, eight out of 11 cities had lower PM 2.5 levels when compared to October 23, 2022, the day before Diwali last year. These cities were Mumbai, Bhopal, Lucknow, Hyderabad, Delhi, Chennai, Chandigarh, and Bengaluru. On Diwali day this year (Nov 12), PM 2.5 levels in the cities of Bengaluru, Delhi and Gandhinagar were lower than the Diwali day last year (Oct 24). Also Read | After Diwali, two more Indian cities join New Delhi among world's top 10 most polluted However, on the day after Diwali, the picture wasn't as rosy. Barring Bengaluru and Gandhinagar, all other cities registered higher PM 2.5 levels than last year. For all the cities, however, PM 2.5 levels were above the 'good' limit prescribed by the CPCB. Also Read | Delhi govt blames BJP for ‘very poor’ air quality, says anti-pollution curbs will continue It was observed that on Diwali day, Patna had the highest PM 2.5 levels among the cities. On the next day, however, New Delhi topped the chart with maximum PM 2.5 levels NCAP Tracker has also noted that the Supreme Court of India's ban on firecrackers was flouted in a number of places.

India: Pollution after Diwali higher in 9 out of 11 cities than a year ago, says report

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

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidvcPss0oAYJWQ" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Three Indian cities made it to the world's top 10 most polluted cities on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A day after Diwali celebrations national capital New Delhi, western metropolis Mumbai and eastern city of Kolkata have joined the most polluted cities in the world. On Monday, these cities witnessed unhealthy air quality after revellers let loose with firecrackers for the annual Hindu festival of light, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian capital, New Delhi, has taken the first spot as usual. It had an AQI (air quality index) figure of 407. Since the beginning of November, Delhi has seen a poor AQI figure. The Swiss group IQAir has put the city's air in the "hazardous" category.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-sam-bahadur-when-indira-gandhi-suspected-sam-manekshaw-of-planning-a-military-coup-658009">Sam Bahadur: When Indira Gandhi suspected Sam Manekshaw of 'planning a military coup'</a></p>

<p>Mumbai, the financial capital of India, came in sixth with an AQI of 157. Kolkata was seventh, with an AQI of 154.&nbsp;</p>

<p>AQI levels between 0 and 50 are considered good. An AQI level between 150 and 200 distresses people with asthma and lung and heart problems. Meanwhile, an AQI level of 400-500 affects healthy people.</p>

<p>Since Sunday night, a thick layer of smog started to blanket New Delhi. The AQI reached an alarming 680 a little after midnight.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-extends-diwali-greetings-to-rishi-sunak-gifts-lord-ganesha-idol-and-kohli-signed-bat-657953">Jaishankar extends Diwali greetings to Rishi Sunak, gifts Lord Ganesha idol and Kohli-signed bat</a></p>

<p>Although authorities ban firecrackers every year in the national capital, the implementation of these bans is often rare.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Member of Rajya Sabha Saket Gokhake posted a letter on X, asking the local police for details on several cases of firecracker use. He also urged the authorities to take action against the perpetrators.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The air quality deterioration in northern India ahead of the winter season is an annual affair, as cold air traps pollutants from vehicles, industry, construction dust, and agricultural waste burning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After a brief spell of rain on Friday, the authorities in New Delhi delayed a previous decision to restrict the use of vehicles on roads on alternate days based on their odd or even registration numbers. The rain brought some breather from a week of toxic air.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In light of the pollution concerns, the local government has announced that it will maintain the ban on all construction activities and keep schools closed until further notice.</p>

<p>According to the CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board), the air quality in Delhi continues to be in the 'very poor' category.</p>

<p>Authorities used water guns to sprinkle water near Sarai Kale Khan to mitigate air pollution.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Three Indian cities made it to the world's top 10 most polluted cities on Monday. A day after Diwali celebrations national capital New Delhi, western metropolis Mumbai and eastern city of Kolkata have joined the most polluted cities in the world.

Three Indian cities made it to the world's top 10 most polluted cities on Monday. A day after Diwali celebrations national capital New Delhi, western metropolis Mumbai and eastern city of Kolkata have joined the most polluted cities in the world. On Monday, these cities witnessed unhealthy air quality after revellers let loose with firecrackers for the annual Hindu festival of light, reported Reuters. The Indian capital, New Delhi, has taken the first spot as usual. It had an AQI (air quality index) figure of 407. Since the beginning of November, Delhi has seen a poor AQI figure. The Swiss group IQAir has put the city's air in the "hazardous" category. ALSO READ | Sam Bahadur: When Indira Gandhi suspected Sam Manekshaw of 'planning a military coup' Mumbai, the financial capital of India, came in sixth with an AQI of 157. Kolkata was seventh, with an AQI of 154. AQI levels between 0 and 50 are considered good. An AQI level between 150 and 200 distresses people with asthma and lung and heart problems. Meanwhile, an AQI level of 400-500 affects healthy people. Since Sunday night, a thick layer of smog started to blanket New Delhi. The AQI reached an alarming 680 a little after midnight. ALSO READ | Jaishankar extends Diwali greetings to Rishi Sunak, gifts Lord Ganesha idol and Kohli-signed bat Although authorities ban firecrackers every year in the national capital, the implementation of these bans is often rare. Member of Rajya Sabha Saket Gokhake posted a letter on X, asking the local police for details on several cases of firecracker use. He also urged the authorities to take action against the perpetrators. The air quality deterioration in northern India ahead of the winter season is an annual affair, as cold air traps pollutants from vehicles, industry, construction dust, and agricultural waste burning. After a brief spell of rain on Friday, the authorities in New Delhi delayed a previous decision to restrict the use of vehicles on roads on alternate days based on their odd or even registration numbers. The rain brought some breather from a week of toxic air. In light of the pollution concerns, the local government has announced that it will maintain the ban on all construction activities and keep schools closed until further notice. According to the CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board), the air quality in Delhi continues to be in the 'very poor' category. Authorities used water guns to sprinkle water near Sarai Kale Khan to mitigate air pollution. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

After Diwali, two more Indian cities join New Delhi among world's top 10 most polluted

<p>The so-called 'odd-even' traffic restriction scheme will not come into effect in Delhi as of now, the Indian capital's Environment Minister Gopal Rai said on Friday (Nov 10). The&nbsp;scheme, in which the movement of privately owned vehicles is restricted on the basis of their odd or even registration numbers, was supposed to be enforced from November 14, as the air quality of the city and nearby regions worsened in the past few days.</p>

<p>The announcement came days after the Supreme Court&nbsp;left it to the Aam Aadmi Party government to decide on the scheme's implementation, even as it rapped it.<br />
<br />
Reacting to the worsening air quality in the national capital, the court had called the scheme "mere optics".</p>

<p>The court had asked for proof of the success of the scheme.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-delhi-gets-a-breather-overnight-rains-bring-relief-clear-smog-657159">New Delhi gets a breather, overnight rains bring relief, clear smog</a></p>

<p>Minister Rai said that the Delhi government will now consider the odd-even scheme's implementation after the air quality review post Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights which often sees fireworks that add to pollution levels.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"An improvement is seen in pollution levels. The AQI, which was 450+, has now reached around 300. (So) the decision to implement odd-even from November 13-20 has been postponed. The situation will be analysed again after Diwali," the minister stated.<br />
<br />
At Friday's hearing on the air quality issue, the court was referred to a report that vehicular pollution is reduced by 13 per cent after implementation of the odd-even scheme.<br />
<br />
The court was further informed that the kilometres travelled also decreased by an estimated 3.78 million per day after the scheme was brought into effect.<br />
<br />
A Delhi government affidavit added that this also decreased the fuel consumption per day by an average of 15 per cent during the scheme.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Will cloud-seeding seek to ease Delhi pollution?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-cloud-seeding-seek-to-ease-delhi-pollution-657065/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p><br />
However, the court stated that as per the report, vehicular pollution contributed only 17 per cent to the larger pollution issue and that the scheme has led to a 13 per cent reduction in that amount.<br />
<br />
"Total vehicular pollution is 17 per cent. Of this... you are saying there is a decline of 13 per cent?" the court quizzed, and added, "We are only flagging it. You take a call... you want to do it, then you can. Can't then say 'pollution because Supreme Court passed an order'."</p>

<h2><strong>Rains bring respite for smog-enveloped Delhi</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, even as Delhi was reportedly mulling artificial rain, overnight rains across the national capital helped the AQI to drop&nbsp;from 500 to 407 at 7 am (local time) on Friday (Nov 10).<br />
<br />
"God heard peoples' prayers and intervened... sometimes wind helps. But no thanks to government. (All) we want to know is... what is being done about farm fires, apart from waiting for rain?" said Justice SK Kaul, while speaking about the rains which lashed the capital on Thursday night and Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Rai asks UP to stop&nbsp;plying of non-destined vehicles in Delhi from its border&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Minister Gopal Rai on Friday (Nov 10) also&nbsp;wrote&nbsp;to the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh's Transport Minister Daya Shankar Singh to take prompt action to stop the entry of&nbsp;non-destined vehicles in Delhi from their state's border, which he is said is causing vehicular air pollution in the capital city.</p>

<p><img alt="Delhi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8a445f1a-8d1b-4aef-8037-1fbd8320d598" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-11-10%20at%204.48.52%20PM.jpeg" /></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the University of Delhi also announced an early winter break from November 13 to 19 for the college students in the wake of the capital city's worsening air quality.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The so-called 'odd-even' traffic restriction scheme will not come into effect in Delhi as of now, the Indian capital's Environment Minister Gopal Rai said on Friday (Nov 10).

The so-called 'odd-even' traffic restriction scheme will not come into effect in Delhi as of now, the Indian capital's Environment Minister Gopal Rai said on Friday (Nov 10). The scheme, in which the movement of privately owned vehicles is restricted on the basis of their odd or even registration numbers, was supposed to be enforced from November 14, as the air quality of the city and nearby regions worsened in the past few days. The announcement came days after the Supreme Court left it to the Aam Aadmi Party government to decide on the scheme's implementation, even as it rapped it. Reacting to the worsening air quality in the national capital, the court had called the scheme "mere optics". The court had asked for proof of the success of the scheme. ALSO READ | New Delhi gets a breather, overnight rains bring relief, clear smog Minister Rai said that the Delhi government will now consider the odd-even scheme's implementation after the air quality review post Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights which often sees fireworks that add to pollution levels. "An improvement is seen in pollution levels. The AQI, which was 450+, has now reached around 300. (So) the decision to implement odd-even from November 13-20 has been postponed. The situation will be analysed again after Diwali," the minister stated. At Friday's hearing on the air quality issue, the court was referred to a report that vehicular pollution is reduced by 13 per cent after implementation of the odd-even scheme. The court was further informed that the kilometres travelled also decreased by an estimated 3.78 million per day after the scheme was brought into effect. A Delhi government affidavit added that this also decreased the fuel consumption per day by an average of 15 per cent during the scheme. WATCH | Gravitas: Will cloud-seeding seek to ease Delhi pollution? However, the court stated that as per the report, vehicular pollution contributed only 17 per cent to the larger pollution issue and that the scheme has led to a 13 per cent reduction in that amount. "Total vehicular pollution is 17 per cent. Of this... you are saying there is a decline of 13 per cent?" the court quizzed, and added, "We are only flagging it. You take a call... you want to do it, then you can. Can't then say 'pollution because Supreme Court passed an order'." Rains bring respite for smog-enveloped Delhi Meanwhile, even as Delhi was reportedly mulling artificial rain, overnight rains across the national capital helped the AQI to drop from 500 to 407 at 7 am (local time) on Friday (Nov 10). "God heard peoples' prayers and intervened... sometimes wind helps. But no thanks to government. (All) we want to know is... what is being done about farm fires, apart from waiting for rain?" said Justice SK Kaul, while speaking about the rains which lashed the capital on Thursday night and Friday. Rai asks UP to stop plying of non-destined vehicles in Delhi from its border Minister Gopal Rai on Friday (Nov 10) also wrote to the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh's Transport Minister Daya Shankar Singh to take prompt action to stop the entry of non-destined vehicles in Delhi from their state's border, which he is said is causing vehicular air pollution in the capital city. Meanwhile, the University of Delhi also announced an early winter break from November 13 to 19 for the college students in the wake of the capital city's worsening air quality. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi air pollution: No odd-even rule to come into effect in India's national capital

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?

Delhi AQI: Delhi chokes as air quality worsens, AQI stands over 398

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>What is&nbsp;Punjab government’s plan?</strong></h2>

<p>The provincial government has announced a public holiday from November 9 to 12.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>The Pakistani province is home to more than 110 million people.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>Marriage halls and bakeries will also be open, said Naqvi, according to PTI news agency.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Situation in Lahore</strong></h2>

<p>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;</p>

<p>The air quality index of the Pakistani province was at a “hazardous” 432, followed by India’s capital Delhi at 302.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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'?

Delhi AQI: Stubble burning on the rise | AQI stands over 400

Indian capital continues to be shrouded in smog. Odd-Even rule came back in Delhi to curb the pollution. The schools are ordered to be shut. Government and private offices are asked to operate from home. The major contributor of smog in Delhi-NCR is stubble burning.

Indian Supreme Court raps Punjab government over stubble burning amid rising air pollution

India's Supreme Court on Delhi pollution

India's supreme court on Delhi pollution: Odd-even scheme is 'mere optics'

<p>In recent days, Delhi has been blanketed by a dense smog, as evidenced by images pouring in from various parts of the city. Thursday morning (Nov 2) saw the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the city at a dismal 352, placing it squarely in the "very poor category."</p>

<p>This was a slight improvement from the previous day's reading of 364 recorded at 4 pm on Wednesday (Nov 1).</p>

<p>Notably, Delhi has been mired in "very poor" air quality for six consecutive days.</p>

<p>Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) indicates that at least five monitoring stations have reported AQI levels in the "severe" range (401 to 500) out of the 35 stations in total.</p>

<p>As Diwali festivities unfold,&nbsp;the annual air pollution menace returns. Amid this comes a comprehensive report analysing what the month of October looked like in terms of pollution from 2019 to 2023.</p>

<p>An analysis conducted by <a href="file:///C:/Users/sneha.swaminathan/Downloads/Respirer%20Reports%20-%20October%202023%20five%20year%20comparison%20(2).pdf">Respirer Reports</a> has shown&nbsp;an increase in PM 2.5 air pollution levels in four major Indian cities when compared to the levels recorded one year ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM 2.5 describes&nbsp;fine inhalable particles, with diameters that are generally 2.5 micrometres&nbsp;and smaller.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study focused on PM 2.5 concentrations between 2019 and 2023 in eight significant state capitals facing air pollution challenges, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Lucknow, Hyderabad, and Patna.</p>

<h2><strong>Here is the visualisation:</strong></h2>

<p><em><strong>This is an interactive chart, please hover/click on the bars to get the data.</strong></em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe class="flourish-embed-iframe" frameborder="0" sandbox="allow-same-origin allow-forms allow-scripts allow-downloads allow-popups allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox allow-top-navigation-by-user-activation" scrolling="no" src="https://flo.uri.sh/visualisation/15596614/embed" style="width:100%;height:600px;" title="Interactive or visual content"></iframe>

<div style="width:100%!;margin-top:4px!important;text-align:right!important;"><a class="flourish-credit" href="https://public.flourish.studio/visualisation/15596614/?utm_source=embed&amp;utm_campaign=visualisation/15596614" style="text-decoration:none!important" target="_top"><img alt="Made with Flourish" src="https://public.flourish.studio/resources/made_with_flourish.svg" style="width:105px!important;height:16px!important;border:none!important;margin:0!important;" /> </a></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>City-wise trends</strong></h2>

<p><strong>Delhi</strong>: The capital city had the highest PM 2.5 levels in October 2023 and has been experiencing a consistent upward trend since 2021.</p>

<p>This trend included a 32 per cent&nbsp;increase in PM 2.5 levels from 2019 to 2020, a 43.7 per cent&nbsp;decrease in 2021, and a steady rise in 2022 and 2023.</p>

<p>Notably, the air quality deteriorated by 4.4 per cent&nbsp;in the last year, significantly exceeding both the Central Pollution Control Board's 'safe' limit (30 μg/m3) and the World Health Organization's safe limit (15 μg/m3).</p>

<p><strong>Mumbai</strong>: PM 2.5 levels in Mumbai also demonstrated a steady increase from 2019 to 2023, with a significant 42 per cent&nbsp;spike in pollution in October 2023 compared to the previous year.</p>

<p>Variability in PM 2.5 levels was observed in previous years, including substantial increases in 2019-2020 and slight decreases in 2021 and 2022.</p>

<p><strong>Hyderabad and Kolkata</strong>: Both cities experienced an increase in PM 2.5 levels in October 2023 compared to 2022.</p>

<p>Hyderabad's PM 2.5 levels exhibited fluctuations in previous years, with a substantial 59 per cent&nbsp;increase in 2019-2020, followed by declines in 2021 and 2022, and another increase in 2023. Similarly, Kolkata witnessed fluctuations, including a significant increase in 2021, a decrease in 2022, and another rise in 2023.</p>

<p><strong>Lucknow, Patna, Bengaluru, and Chennai</strong>: In contrast to the above-mentioned cities, Lucknow, Patna, Bengaluru, and Chennai saw declines in PM 2.5 levels between 2022 and 2023. Lucknow and Patna experienced improvements in air quality, with fluctuations over the years, including decreases and increases. Bengaluru and Chennai also observed reductions in PM 2.5 levels, with fluctuations in previous years, involving both increases and decreases.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Parts of Delhi record AQI above 600; stubble burning major reason for pollution</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-air-quality-parts-of-delhi-record-aqi-above-600-stubble-burning-major-reason-for-pollution-654222/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>


In recent days, Delhi has been blanketed by a dense smog, as evidenced by images pouring in from various parts of the city. Thursday morning (Nov 2) saw the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the city at a dismal 352, placing it squarely in the "very poor category.

In recent days, Delhi has been blanketed by a dense smog, as evidenced by images pouring in from various parts of the city. Thursday morning (Nov 2) saw the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the city at a dismal 352, placing it squarely in the "very poor category." This was a slight improvement from the previous day's reading of 364 recorded at 4 pm on Wednesday (Nov 1). Notably, Delhi has been mired in "very poor" air quality for six consecutive days. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) indicates that at least five monitoring stations have reported AQI levels in the "severe" range (401 to 500) out of the 35 stations in total. As Diwali festivities unfold, the annual air pollution menace returns. Amid this comes a comprehensive report analysing what the month of October looked like in terms of pollution from 2019 to 2023. An analysis conducted by Respirer Reports has shown an increase in PM 2.5 air pollution levels in four major Indian cities when compared to the levels recorded one year ago. PM 2.5 describes fine inhalable particles, with diameters that are generally 2.5 micrometres and smaller. The study focused on PM 2.5 concentrations between 2019 and 2023 in eight significant state capitals facing air pollution challenges, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Lucknow, Hyderabad, and Patna. Here is the visualisation: This is an interactive chart, please hover/click on the bars to get the data. × City-wise trends Delhi: The capital city had the highest PM 2.5 levels in October 2023 and has been experiencing a consistent upward trend since 2021. This trend included a 32 per cent increase in PM 2.5 levels from 2019 to 2020, a 43.7 per cent decrease in 2021, and a steady rise in 2022 and 2023. Notably, the air quality deteriorated by 4.4 per cent in the last year, significantly exceeding both the Central Pollution Control Board's 'safe' limit (30 μg/m3) and the World Health Organization's safe limit (15 μg/m3). Mumbai: PM 2.5 levels in Mumbai also demonstrated a steady increase from 2019 to 2023, with a significant 42 per cent spike in pollution in October 2023 compared to the previous year. Variability in PM 2.5 levels was observed in previous years, including substantial increases in 2019-2020 and slight decreases in 2021 and 2022. Hyderabad and Kolkata: Both cities experienced an increase in PM 2.5 levels in October 2023 compared to 2022. Hyderabad's PM 2.5 levels exhibited fluctuations in previous years, with a substantial 59 per cent increase in 2019-2020, followed by declines in 2021 and 2022, and another increase in 2023. Similarly, Kolkata witnessed fluctuations, including a significant increase in 2021, a decrease in 2022, and another rise in 2023. Lucknow, Patna, Bengaluru, and Chennai: In contrast to the above-mentioned cities, Lucknow, Patna, Bengaluru, and Chennai saw declines in PM 2.5 levels between 2022 and 2023. Lucknow and Patna experienced improvements in air quality, with fluctuations over the years, including decreases and increases. Bengaluru and Chennai also observed reductions in PM 2.5 levels, with fluctuations in previous years, involving both increases and decreases. Also watch | Parts of Delhi record AQI above 600; stubble burning major reason for pollution

Data Lab: Delhi leads October pollution among major Indian cities. What awaits in the Diwali month?

<p>In a bid to combat severe pollution levels in the national capital, the Delhi government on Monday (Nov 6) announced plans to reintroduce the odd-even car rationing scheme from Nov 13 to 20.</p>

<p>Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai made the announcement during a press briefing after a high-level meeting with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.</p>

<p>Rai said that the odd-even scheme would come into effect a day after Diwali and would go on until a week. The decision on whether to extend the scheme or not would be taken after Nov 20.</p>

<p>"The odd-even scheme will come into effect in Delhi after Diwali, running from November 13 to November 20. A decision to extend the scheme will be made after November 20," he said.</p>

<p>He further said that as per the weather forecast, it is expected that the wind speed should increase on Nov 7, 8 further reducing the level of pollution.</p>

<p>"As per the forecast, the wind speed will be 12km/hour tomorrow, 7th November and if the speed reaches 10 to 12 km/hour, then there is a possibility that the level of pollution accumulated here might disperse. Similarly, the wind speed will be 8-10 km/hour on 8th November. It is expected that the speed of wind will increase on November 7 and 8 November which will reduce the level of pollution," he said.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | On the Odd-Even vehicle scheme implemented by Delhi Govt, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai says "A meeting has been called tomorrow to have further discussions on how to implement the Odd-Even scheme in Delhi...There are over 7,000 buses running in Delhi, out of… <a href="https://t.co/oyX91rlJhi">pic.twitter.com/oyX91rlJhi</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1721457992875549142?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also said that a decision to impose work-from-home for 50 per cent of staff in government and private offices will be taken after Diwali.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&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</a></p>

<h2><strong>What is odd-even scheme?</strong></h2>

<p>The odd-even scheme, which was introduced by the Delhi government in 2016 to combat vehicular pollution, was enforced in 2017 as well as 2019.</p>

<p>It is a traffic rationing measure which permits cars to operate on alternate days based on their odd or even number plates.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vehicles with registration numbers ending with an odd digit are permitted on the roads on odd dates and the ones ending with an even digit are allowed on even dates.</p>

<p>The enforcement next week would mark the fourth time that the Delhi government will implement this scheme to tackle pollution caused by vehicles.</p>

<p>According to the data released by the System of Air Quality Forecasting and Research (SAFAR-India), the air quality index was recorded at 488 in India's capital which shot up from 410 a day ago.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


In a bid to combat severe pollution levels in the national capital, the Delhi government on Monday (Nov 6) announced plans to reintroduce the odd-even car rationing scheme from Nov 13 to 20.

In a bid to combat severe pollution levels in the national capital, the Delhi government on Monday (Nov 6) announced plans to reintroduce the odd-even car rationing scheme from Nov 13 to 20. Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai made the announcement during a press briefing after a high-level meeting with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Rai said that the odd-even scheme would come into effect a day after Diwali and would go on until a week. The decision on whether to extend the scheme or not would be taken after Nov 20. "The odd-even scheme will come into effect in Delhi after Diwali, running from November 13 to November 20. A decision to extend the scheme will be made after November 20," he said. He further said that as per the weather forecast, it is expected that the wind speed should increase on Nov 7, 8 further reducing the level of pollution. "As per the forecast, the wind speed will be 12km/hour tomorrow, 7th November and if the speed reaches 10 to 12 km/hour, then there is a possibility that the level of pollution accumulated here might disperse. Similarly, the wind speed will be 8-10 km/hour on 8th November. It is expected that the speed of wind will increase on November 7 and 8 November which will reduce the level of pollution," he said. #WATCH | On the Odd-Even vehicle scheme implemented by Delhi Govt, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai says "A meeting has been called tomorrow to have further discussions on how to implement the Odd-Even scheme in Delhi...There are over 7,000 buses running in Delhi, out of… pic.twitter.com/oyX91rlJhi — ANI (@ANI) November 6, 2023 × He also said that a decision to impose work-from-home for 50 per cent of staff in government and private offices will be taken after Diwali. Also read: Delhi's air 'critical', with many NCR areas recording AQI at 999 What is odd-even scheme? The odd-even scheme, which was introduced by the Delhi government in 2016 to combat vehicular pollution, was enforced in 2017 as well as 2019. It is a traffic rationing measure which permits cars to operate on alternate days based on their odd or even number plates. Vehicles with registration numbers ending with an odd digit are permitted on the roads on odd dates and the ones ending with an even digit are allowed on even dates. The enforcement next week would mark the fourth time that the Delhi government will implement this scheme to tackle pollution caused by vehicles. According to the data released by the System of Air Quality Forecasting and Research (SAFAR-India), the air quality index was recorded at 488 in India's capital which shot up from 410 a day ago. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi to reintroduce odd-even scheme to combat severe levels of pollution

With winter just around the corner, Delhi has once again been enveloped in a thick layer of smog as the air quality plummeted to 'severe' category. Here are some of the things that you need to know about the situation.

India: Odd-even policy in Delhi from Nov 13 to Nov 20

What causes air pollution? | New Delhi AQI dystopia

India's national capital New Delhi is facing severe weather change air quality.

Air Quality in New Delhi: National capital faces peak air pollution levels

AQI in Mumbai hovered around the 200 mark ahead of Thursday's match between India and Sri Lanka. The city is expected to welcome large crowds as it hosts the semifinal of the tournament on Nov. 15. It is similar to the December 2017 match between the nations.

Smog shrouds 2023 World Cup during India vs Sri Lanka match

The air quality in the national capital took a nosedive on Monday morning, slipping into the 'Very Poor' category as the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 306, up from 302 recorded on Sunday afternoon, according to data provided by SAFAR-India.

Delhi's air quality in 'very poor' category for 5th day in a row, certain parts record AQI above 400

India's national capital delhi and business capital mumbai see worsening air quality ahead of diwali..With a hike in pm2.5 particlulate matter in the air.

Delhi, mumbai gasp for breath as air quality dips

As stubble burning continues in parts of the Indian states of Punjab and Haryana, air quality in India's capital, New Delhi has worsened in the past few days. Just days before the Diwali festival, can the administration keep air pollution levels in check? Here's more

New Delhi's air pollution woes

pollution

Pollution, News on Pollution, stories on Pollution, articles on Pollution, Pollution stories at Wion, Pollution news, Pollution latest news