INDIA POLLUTION
India's invisible pain: The dirt in the air comes with a hefty price tag for economy and businesses
Severe pollution plaguing Indian cities is taking a toll on businesses. Restrictions placed on construction and transportation impede the movement of goods, leading to increased operational expenses. Many consumers are opting out of outdoor activities due to dangerous air quality, resulting in a drop in sales and foot traffic.
1,200 stubble burning locations on Diwali: Delhi Minister Mishra alleges conspiracy against farmers, against Delhi and Punjab
Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra has claimed a conspiracy related to the spike in stubble burning incidents during Diwali. He stated that farmers in Punjab reported fires in their fields while they celebrated the festival. Satellite data revealed a dramatic rise in stubble burning locations from November 7 to November 8. Mishra has called for investigations into potential involvement by Aam Aadmi Party leaders.
Congress slams Modi govt for being in 'denial' on impact of air pollution on mortality
Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh condemned the Modi government for denying air pollution's significant mortality impact. He referred to a FICCI-EY report indicating around 2 million death cases linked to pollution in 2023. The report urges reforms like tightening PM2.5 and ozone standards to WHO levels for better public health. Ramesh emphasized the need for revamping the National Clean Air Programme to address these alarming issues.
Chennai Open women's singles final postponed due to severe smog and heavy rainfall
The WTA 50 Chennai Open women's singles final was postponed due to heavy smog and rainfall in Chennai. The air quality index reached an alarming level of 1,500, impacting the match schedule. Initially, the final was set for Sunday between Janice Tjen from Indonesia and Magda Linette from Poland. Despite concerns about pollution, the WTA had intended to proceed with the match.
AQI: Delhi at 743, Lucknow at 493, Indore at 449 after Diwali; check AQI across major Indian cities
AQI near me: Air quality in numerous Indian cities has taken a severe downturn after Diwali festivities, leading to alarming pollution levels. Delhi recorded a staggering AQI of 743, marking it as hazardous. Nearby cities, including Lucknow, Indore, and Pune, fared poorly as well, with AQIs ranging from 412 to 493. Meanwhile, Chennai and Ahmedabad experienced unhealthy air conditions, but their pollution levels remained lower. Elevated concentrations of PM2.
Delhi AQI at 3,000 or 300? Why different apps are showing different pollution levels
Delhi's air pollution readings have sparked confusion as government and independent monitoring platforms report sharply different AQI figures, ranging from the 300s to over 3,000. Differences in AQI calculation methods, averaging periods, monitoring networks and sensor technology explain why apps show varying numbers. Here's why Delhi's AQI readings differ and how PM2.5 levels can provide a clearer picture of air pollution.
- Go To Page 1
Delhi wakes up to post-Diwali smog as AQI crosses 440, several areas record 'severe' pollution levels; Burari worst hit
Delhi experienced a sharp decline in air quality on Monday morning following Diwali celebrations. Multiple monitoring stations reported Air Quality Index levels exceeding 400, indicating severe pollution. Burari Crossing recorded the highest AQI at 441, and visibility was heavily affected by smog. In response to deteriorating conditions, the Commission for Air Quality Management implemented Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan.
Delhi AQI today: National capital wakes up to toxic air on Diwali, over 24 stations record AQI over 400; check IMD's weather forecast and more
Delhi weather news: Delhi continues to face very poor air quality with an AQI of 384 recorded on Diwali morning. Several monitoring stations registered AQI levels exceeding 400, with Jahangirpuri recording the highest PM2.5 level. As air pollution worsens, schools in Delhi and neighboring NCR cities will conduct hybrid classes for younger students. The government has invoked Stage III restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan for pollution control.
Surge in air purifier sales in India as pollution levels rise during winter season 2023
Air purifier sales have increased substantially in India as pollution levels rise and winter approaches. Quick-commerce platforms are experiencing heightened demand, especially from Tier 2 cities. Sales of air purifiers on Amazon have reportedly doubled recently, indicating a surge in consumer interest. Additionally, the overall market for winter appliances is projected to grow significantly this season. Analysts expect online sales to climb further as consumers continue to make purchases.
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.
Stubble burning cases cross 3,000 mark in Punjab; Tarn Taran tops list
Punjab has recorded 3,144 incidents of stubble burning between September 15 and November 6, with Tarn Taran as the highest contributor. Fines totaling Rs 54.55 lakh have been imposed in over a thousand cases related to these incidents. Authorities have registered 795 FIRs under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita during this period as well. The practice of stubble burning is often linked to increased air pollution in Delhi-NCR.
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.
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.
Hydrogen-Powered Toy Train: Indian Railways plans big change on iconic Kalka-Shimla route; check what could soon be different for passengers
Indian Railways is planning to introduce a hydrogen-powered toy train on the 96-km Kalka-Shimla heritage route under the Centre's Hydrogen for Heritage initiative. Barog railway station has been identified as a possible site for a hydrogen production plant. The project aims to promote cleaner rail transport in the ecologically sensitive Shivalik hills, subject to technical feasibility and official approvals.
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.
Get ready to pay double for parking in Delhi: MCD plans to hike charges at 400 parking lots under GRAP-II; what two-wheeler and car owners need to know
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is likely to double parking charges at around 400 surface parking lots from Wednesday under GRAP-II pollution-control measures. The proposal is awaiting clearance from the civic body's law department and the competent authority. Currently, MCD charges Rs 20 per hour for four-wheelers and Rs 10 for two-wheelers.
Bombay HC invokes secular spirit, slams 'petty mindset', says restore Dia Mirza clip
The Bombay High Court expressed discontent over the removal of Dia Mirza's eco-friendly Diwali campaign video. Political objections led to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's decision to delete the clip. The court emphasized the need for a secular approach in environmental awareness efforts. Justice Gokhale criticized local politicians for not advocating for environmental issues effectively.
Imran Khan tenders unconditional apology to Bombay HC, vows not to join protests amid ‘Leave India’ notice row
Imran Khan submitted an unconditional apology to the Bombay High Court as he challenges a 'Leave India Notice'. This notice was issued by the Foreigners Regional Registration Office after his alleged participation in a protest. The court has scheduled a hearing for December 7, which keeps the notice in abeyance for the time being.
BMC takes down actor Dia Mirza's pollution-free Diwali video after BJP leader's objection
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation removed a video featuring Dia Mirza promoting an eco-friendly Diwali. This decision followed objections from BJP Mumbai chief Ameet Satam regarding the video’s message. Other campaign videos from different celebrities remained on social media despite the backlash. Opposition leaders criticized the removal, claiming it reflected increasing BJP influence over civic operations.
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.
INDIA bloc rally: Opposition leaders accuse Centre of blocking protesters, raise concerns over voting rights
Leaders of the opposition INDIA bloc raised serious concerns about the integrity of electoral processes during their rally. Allegations include the government obstructing march participants from reaching the event venue using various pretexts. Prominent leaders highlighted issues of voter fraud and demanded accountability from Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. They argued that these actions threaten fundamental democratic rights, especially the right to vote.
High Court refuses urgent listing of plea against ban on non BS VI vehicles in Delhi from Nov 1
The Delhi High Court has dismissed a plea challenging the ban on non-BS VI vehicles entering the city. This regulation is set to begin on November 1 and affects many individuals traveling from NCR. The court found no urgency or issues with the decision made by the Delhi government. The restriction aims to combat persistent air pollution caused by vehicular emissions in Delhi.
MCD races against October 31 deadline to operationalise multi-lane free-flow toll system at 20 Delhi entry points
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi is installing a multi-lane free flow tolling system at major entry points. The aim is to ease traffic congestion and curb pollution at border plazas. After trial runs next week, the project will automate toll collection using RFID technology. The first phase targets 20 out of 154 toll points that handle a majority of city traffic.
MCD to hire 1,066 staff for mosquito control; clears Rs 923.6 crore for road-sweeping project
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi has authorized the hiring of 1,066 contractual staff to enhance efforts against mosquito-borne diseases, alongside approving a Rs 923.6-crore project for 70 mechanical road-sweeping machines. This recruitment targets roles crucial for monitoring and controlling diseases, while the sweeping machines aim to reduce pollution and improve road cleanliness.
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.
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.
Load More
