Air pollution: Delhi government plans to impose more restrictions, banning passenger bus play

Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai stated that the government is actively monitoring pollution levels in the city. If the situation escalates to the ‘Severe’ plus category, authorities will consider measures such as artificial rain and the implementation of the odd-even rule.

New Delhi: Amid the continuously deteriorating air quality in the national capital, the Delhi government is expected to impose a complete ban on passenger buses, except those running on CNG, electricity and BS-VI diesel, from entering the national capital. Currently, GRAP Stage IV restrictions have been imposed in the city to curb pollution, as reported by PTI.

This comes as Delhi struggles with dangerous air conditions. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the air quality at 7 am was recorded at 442 in Bawana, 418 in RK Puram, 441 in Jahangirpuri, 416 in Dwarka, 415 in Alipur, 412 in Anand Vihar, 412 in ITO, and 401 near Delhi airport.

Images from India Gate showed a thick layer of smog enveloping the entire area. Commenting on the pollution, one athlete said: “As an athlete I struggle to breathe in this pollution. Exercising outdoors becomes a challenge because of the breathing difficulties.

Earlier on Wednesday, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced that the government was closely monitoring the city’s pollution levels. If the situation ends up in the ‘Serious’ plus category, measures such as artificial rain and the introduction of the odd-even rule will be considered. Rai will hold a meeting with the Environment Department in view of the current situation.

Meanwhile, nine of the 11 state capitals analyzed in India recorded higher pollution levels in the first 12 hours after Diwali celebrations this year compared to last year.

Air pollution in Delhi: health advice

Amid rising air pollution levels, Delhi’s health department recently issued an advisory to address the impact of this environmental problem. The advice underlines the importance of taking essential measures to protect public health, with a focus on vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, persons with underlying medical conditions, children and the elderly.

Air Pollution in Delhi: GRAP 4 Regulations

To combat pollution and ensure compliance with anti-pollution measures, police are inspecting trucks carrying non-essential goods at various borders, including Ghazipur and Tikri borders, as part of GRAP 4 regulations. As per Delhi’s air pollution control strategy (GRAP Stage IV), only CNG, electric and BS VI compliant vehicles from other states are allowed to enter the city, excluding those engaged in essential services.