Delhi Air Pollution: Odd-Even System Nov 13-20; AQI ‘Severe’

Delhi Air Pollution: The national capital is still shrouded in a poisonous cloud, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) standing at 411 as of Monday afternoon, placing it in the “severe” category. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) states that the period from November 1 to November 15 is when Delhi has its highest pollution levels. During this time, there was a notable increase in the number of stubble-burning occurrences in Punjab and Haryana.

The central government implemented emergency measures under Stage IV of its air pollution control plan. Known as the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), the 24-hour average AQI is measured at 4 pm every day. Amid the rise in pollution levels in Delhi, declined from 415 on Saturday to 454 on Sunday.

Delhi is not the only city experiencing dangerously low air quality. Numerous other cities in nearby states, including Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. They have all reported similar problems.

Four phases comprise GRAP’s actions: ‘Poor’ (AQI 201-300) for Stage I. ‘Very Poor’ (AQI 301-400) for Stage II; ‘Severe’ (AQI 401-450) for Stage III; and ‘Severe Plus’ (AQI >450) for Stage IV.

The most recent actions taken regarding Delhi Air Pollution

• The Odd-Even system will be implemented from November 13 and last for a week. Ending on November 20, according to a Monday announcement made by Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai. Vehicles having license plate numbers that end in even or odd digits will be able to drive on different days under this scheme.
• The states of Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) have been indeed advised by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). To prohibit building work associated with linear public projects. Additionally, they have suggested allowing 50% of workers in private and public offices to work remotely.
• Delhi has adopted the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Stage IV. It restricts entry to CNG, electric, and BS VI-compliant cars from other states. Individuals engaged in critical services are the only ones eligible for exemptions. Furthermore, any medium and heavy freight trucks operating in the capital that are not performing vital services are prohibited by the most recent instruction from CAQM.
• In compliance with Stage IV of the updated GRAP and Section 115 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. The Delhi government’s Transport Department has issued an order banning trucks from entering the national capital. With the exception of those hauling necessities. It states that trucks carrying necessities or delivering necessities. As well as LNG, CNG, and electric trucks, are the only vehicles permitted access into Delhi.
• On Sunday, Delhi’s Minister Atishi stated that elementary schools in the capital city will be closed till November 10 due to the high levels of pollution.