AIR QUALITY
Nov-Jan ban on non-Delhi vehicles below BS-VI standards to be in force every year
Delhi government plans to ban non-Delhi-registered vehicles below BS-VI emission standards beginning November 1. This ban will continue annually until January 31 to improve air quality. Vehicles using Compressed Natural Gas or electric power are exempted from these restrictions. The transport department is enforcing rules with 250 personnel at key entry points across the city. The Commission for Air Quality Management has implemented emergency measures due to severe pollution levels.
Delhi schools to hold classes up to Class 5 in hybrid mode as pollution worsens
The Delhi Directorate of Education has mandated that all schools offer hybrid classes for students up to class 5. This decision comes in response to the deteriorating air quality in the national capital. Classes will allow for both in-person and online attendance to accommodate students' needs. School heads must notify parents and guardians about these arrangements promptly. Education officials will visit schools to ensure the implementation of these new directives.
Delhi AQI today: National capital’s air continues to remain toxic, AQI crosses 400 at over 22 stations; check IMD weather forecast and AQI
Delhi air pollution news: Delhi is experiencing a serious decline in air quality with an AQI reading of 365. As Diwali approaches, pollution levels may increase due to firecracker use and stubble burning. The Commission for Air Quality Management has implemented stage three measures to manage air quality. Forecasts indicate continued poor air quality, likely reaching severe levels from November 7 to 9.
ET Graphics: Smog season is here, again
Delhi’s air quality has deteriorated, as pollution levels reached alarming rates in neighbouring cities as well. Major factors contributing to this situation include vehicle emissions and agricultural fires from nearby states. Forecasts indicate that pollution may worsen due to drifting smog from western Uttar Pradesh by November 8. Recent data shows 58 cities across India reported poor air quality, highlighting a broader national crisis. Additionally, India's average PM2.
SC questions recurring Delhi-NCR pollution, flags vehicle emissions as major contributor
The Supreme Court has raised concerns over recurring air pollution in Delhi-NCR, identifying vehicular emissions as a major contributor and questioning why the AQI continues to approach 400 despite regulatory measures. The bench also called for changes in festival practices and economic incentives to discourage stubble burning.
Delhi air pollution: GRAP 3 restrictions kick in ahead of Diwali; what's allowed and what's banned
Delhi-NCR has invoked GRAP Stage III restrictions ahead of Diwali as pollution levels worsened, with the capital's AQI reaching 382. The curbs include restrictions on older vehicles, construction and dust-generating activities, while essential projects, additional Metro services and buses can continue under prescribed measures.
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Diwali 2026: You can't control outdoor air pollution, but 6 things you can do to improve indoor air quality during Diwali firecracker season without an air purifier
Diwali festivities, while joyous, often contribute to heightened air pollution from firecrackers and outdoor emissions. To combat indoor air quality issues during this period, consider keeping windows shut and steering clear of incense burning to minimize smoke. Regular cleaning and maintaining home appliances can effectively reduce dust buildup. Although indoor plants add a touch of beauty, they don't significantly enhance air quality throughout Diwali.
Delhi pollution: Supreme Court to go by expert opinion on plea for online classes if AQI rises
Supreme Court is evaluating expert opinions concerning potential school closures amid worsening air quality in Delhi-NCR. The average Air Quality Index has been categorized as 'very poor', with severe pollution levels reported in many areas. Authorities have noted that vehicular emissions significantly contribute to the region's pollution crisis. The implementation of measures, including truck-mounted water sprinklers, is part of the effort to improve air quality.
Happy polluted Diwali! Get ready for severe air pollution as AQI monitoring agency sounds warning this year
Delhi AQI News: Get ready for severely polluted Delhi this year as the national capital is likely to face severe air pollution this year, with AQI forecast to cross 400. Stubble burning, firecracker emissions and unfavourable weather conditions could worsen the capital's air quality, raising concerns about another post-Diwali pollution spike.
Delhi AQI today: Air quality remains very poor, one station records satisfactory; Smog covers Delhi-NCR areas like Gurugram, Noida and Ghaziabad
AQI today: Delhi’s overall AQI stood at 389 on November 6, falling in the Very Poor category, while station-wise readings showed pollution levels varying across the city. CRRI Mathura Road recorded the highest station AQI at 261, followed by Jahangirpuri, Rohini, Mundka and Dwarka Sector 8. The report also covers readings from other monitoring stations across Delhi.
Delhi's AQI 'very poor' for fourth day, set to get 'severe'
The 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 369 at 4 pm on Thursday, compared to 377 recorded at the same time on Wednesday, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Punjab government 'misleading' people on issue of stubble burning: Manjinder Singh Sirsa
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa criticized the Punjab government for misleading the public regarding stubble burning, linking a rise in farm fires to deteriorating air quality in the capital. He called out Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's false claims and highlighted the failure to provide solutions for farmers, while asserting that pollution was exacerbated by smoke from Punjab.
Delhi AQI today: National capital's air remains toxic, crosses 400 AQI mark in Jahangirpuri, IIT Delhi and other regions
Delhi AQI news: Delhi continues to experience severe air quality, recording an average Air Quality Index of 368. High pollution levels are noted in various areas, with Jahangirpuri and IIT Delhi significantly impacted. Main pollutants are PM2.5 and PM10, with transport emissions and stubble burning as leading contributors. The city is currently under Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan.
Air quality worsens in Delhi-NCR: CAQM sends team to Bathinda, steps up Punjab monitoring
The Commission for Air Quality Management has called an urgent review meeting with Punjab officials after a surge in paddy stubble burning and worsening air quality in Delhi-NCR. It has ordered tighter monitoring across 12 districts, warned nodal officers of personal accountability and directed thermal plants to meet biomass co-firing targets.
CAQM takes serious view of spurt in farm fires in Punjab
The Commission for Air Quality Management held a meeting regarding the high incidence of farm fires in Punjab. Recent data indicated a significant increase in stubble burning cases across various districts. The Commission emphasized the need for stricter monitoring and accountability among local authorities. Community leaders will also be involved to enhance prevention efforts against farm fires.
Delhi air turns hazardous; AQI touches 605, GRAP-II vehicle curb enforced at Gurgaon border
Delhi AQI: Among the worst-affected locations, Punjabi Bagh recorded an AQI of 452, followed by Dhaula Kuan at 417, ITO at 418, RK Puram at 423 and Ghazipur at 410. The air quality around India Gate stood at 414, with all these locations falling in the severe category.
Gurgaon work from home advisory: Half of government & private office staff to work remotely amid pollution; check exemptions and deadline
The Gurugram district administration has directed government and private offices to allow only 50% of their staff to work from the office, with the remaining employees working from home, from November 5 to 20. The measures, announced to curb air pollution, also include restrictions on construction and demolition activities across the district. The order has been issued in compliance with directions from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM).
NCRTC to run 20 additional Namo Bharat Trips from November 4 amid rising pollution
The additional services will run along the entire corridor between Sarai Kale Khan in Delhi and Modipuram in Meerut, the NCRTC said in a statement. The AQI in the national capital recorded in the 'very poor' category with a reading of 350 at 4pm, according to the CPCP Sameer App.
GRAP II imposed in Delhi with immediate effect amid 'very poor' air quality; check key restrictions
GRAP Stage II has been implemented in Delhi-NCR due to a significant decline in air quality. The Commission for Air Quality Management reported an increase in the AQI from 117 to 324 recently. These figures indicate a shift to the 'very poor' category following unfavorable weather conditions. Authorities will now intensify measures to reduce dust pollution and promote public transportation.
Delhi's AQI hits 451 ahead of Diwali, GRAP-II curbs enforced across NCR
Delhi air quality: Air quality in Delhi deteriorated significantly as the overall AQI reached severe levels before Diwali. Several areas reported their highest AQI levels, including Rohini, Punjabi Bagh, and Bawana. In response to the worsening pollution, authorities invoked Stage-II of the Graded Response Action Plan across the National Capital Region. Civic bodies and police have been directed to enhance enforcement and manage pollution hotspots effectively.
Delhi witnesses AQI spike ahead of Diwali; GRAP II kicks in
According to the air quality forecast provided by IMD/IITM, Delhi's overall air quality is likely to stay in the 'Very Poor' category in the coming days, the CAQM said, urging government agencies as well as citizens to take appropriate measures to address the air pollution menace.
Delhi Metro announces 20 additional trips on weekdays amid GRAP-II curbs
Delhi Metro Rail Corporation will operate 20 additional train trips on weekdays. This initiative increases total extra services to 40 amidst rising air pollution concerns. The Commission for Air Quality Management has activated Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan across Delhi-NCR. Measures include promoting public transport usage to reduce vehicular emissions and dust pollution control.
Diwali firecracker curbs: SC sets two time periods for fireworks, bans bursting near hospitals
The Supreme Court has permitted the use of green firecrackers in Delhi-NCR for Diwali on specific dates. Firecrackers must not be used near hospitals, old-age homes, or designated silence zones. The court mandated that only certified green firecrackers may be manufactured and sold. Strict measures against unauthorized firecracker sales will be enforced to manage pollution concerns. A complete ban on firecrackers will be reinstated after November 9, 2026.
Delhi's air quality remains 'very poor' to 'hazardous', AQI touches 428
Delhi is facing poor air quality with the Air Quality Index ranging from hazardous to severe. Several areas, including Akshardham Temple and ITO, recorded AQI values in the 'Very Poor' category. Enforcement teams are actively checking vehicles and inspecting construction sites to mitigate pollution. The Delhi Traffic Police have intensified restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan to control the situation.
Delhi-NCR pollution: CAQM orders construction ban, 50% work-from-home from November 5 to 20
The Commission for Air Quality Management has implemented a ban on construction activities in Delhi-NCR from November 5 to 20. This measure aims to combat the worsening air quality in the region during this period. Additionally, government and private offices in Delhi and surrounding areas should allow up to 50% of their employees to work from home.
Delhi air pollution: How to fight toxic air and protect the city’s trees amid worsening air quality
Delhi's escalating pollution crisis has dire implications for both its inhabitants and its trees. Toxic air diminishes chlorophyll production and hinders moisture retention in greenery. While species like neem and amaltas exhibit resilience to pollution, they urgently require safeguarding. Prioritising public transport enhancements, rigorous dust management, and eliminating open burning will be vital.
Mumbai, India's financial hub is losing its coastal edge as pollution surges
Mumbai has faced unusually poor air quality throughout October as the average air quality index has sharply increased. According to data, this month has seen significant concentrations of PM2.5 particles that pose health risks. The ongoing El Niño effect is causing slower coastal winds that usually help disperse pollution. Factors such as construction activity and urban development further contribute to the deteriorating air quality.
Delhi vs Mumbai air pollution: Delhi’s air quality deteriorates at slowest pace in 7 years, Mumbai pollution doubles
Delhi has recorded its slowest seasonal deterioration in air quality in seven years, while Mumbai’s pollution has significantly increased. The analysis from Moneycontrol highlights varying patterns of air quality across major Indian cities. Air quality readings indicate that PM2.5 remains the dominant pollutant in both cities. Delhi's Graded Response Action Plan has been activated to curb pollution effectively.
Delhi-NCR invokes GRAP-I as AQI rises to 244, air quality likely to remain ‘poor’
The Commission for Air Quality Management has invoked Stage-I of GRAP across Delhi-NCR after Delhi’s AQI rose sharply from 179 on October 20 to 244 by 2 pm on October 21. With forecasts predicting poor air quality over the coming days, agencies have been directed to intensify anti-pollution measures.
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