Delhi Intensifies Anti-Pollution Efforts Amid Rising Air Quality Concerns

In response to deteriorating air quality levels in Delhi, the Public Works Department has commenced water sprinkling to curb pollution. The Commission for Air Quality Management has implemented the Stage-II Graded Response Action Plan, emphasizing road cleaning and increased public transport to combat the alarming rise in the Air Quality Index.

Amid escalating air pollution in Delhi, the Public Works Department began water sprinkling on Wednesday to mitigate pollution effects.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has mandated daily road cleaning across the National Capital Region (NCR), incorporating mechanical or vacuum sweeping and water sprinkling to curb dust.

The action follows the invocation of the Stage-II Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) due to air quality deterioration. With the Air Quality Index crossing 300, heightened measures include regulating diesel generators, increasing metro and bus services, and hiking parking fees to discourage car use.

Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai confirmed the enforcement of GRAP-II rules in northern India, given the 'Very Poor' air quality status reported by the Central Pollution Control Board.

Moreover, a dense smog shrouded Delhi, with the AQI striking 354, prompting health experts to report a 15% rise in respiratory issues among residents.

On Tuesday, Rai addressed transport ministers in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, urging a halt to diesel bus entries into Delhi, emphasizing the substantial pollution from vehicular emissions, particularly diesel buses from Uttar Pradesh.

He articulated concerns about the worsening air quality owing to diesel fumes, urging restrictions on their entry into Delhi to safeguard public health.

(With inputs from agencies.)