Post by : Saif Rahman

Delhi, recognized as one of the most polluted cities globally, has initiated stringent actions to combat deteriorating air quality, which has reached perilous levels in recent days. On Wednesday, officials announced new constraints on vehicle usage, office attendance, and construction work to mitigate pollution and safeguard public health.

The air quality index (AQI) in Delhi, home to 30 million residents, has frequently been categorized as 'severe', often exceeding 450. The combination of thick fog and heavy pollution has led to reduced visibility, affecting flights, trains, and daily commuting.

To address this, the Commission for Air Quality Management has triggered stage four of the Graded Response Action Plan—the highest alert level—for Delhi and its neighboring areas. This stage encompasses various restrictions aimed at curbing emissions and lowering outdoor pollution.

As part of the latest measures, older diesel trucks that fail to meet the most recent emission standards are prohibited from entering the city. Construction activities, including public projects, are temporarily halted. Schools are adopting hybrid classes, and both private and government offices will function at just 50 percent capacity, with the remainder of staff working remotely.

To aid daily-wage construction workers affected by the cessation of work, the government has announced a compensation package of 10,000 rupees ($110) per worker.

“Our government is dedicated to ensuring clean air in Delhi. We will enforce strict measures in the coming days,” stated Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Delhi's Environment Minister.

Winter pollution remains a persistent challenge in Delhi and surrounding regions. The cold, dense air traps smoke emitted from vehicles, construction activities, and crop burning in adjacent states, pushing pollution levels to alarming highs. Experts caution that such elevated pollution levels pose significant respiratory and cardiovascular risks to residents.

Authorities express hope that these steps will reduce emissions and offer some relief, while also emphasizing the urgent need for long-term solutions to the ongoing air pollution crisis in Delhi.

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