6-11-2023 (NEW DELHI) In an effort to combat the severe air pollution plaguing the city, the government of New Delhi has announced a one-week vehicle restriction from November 13 to 20. The move comes as air quality in the city remains in the “severe” category despite previous mitigation measures.
Under the new rule, vehicles with odd-numbered license plates will be permitted to operate on odd dates, while those with even-numbered plates will be allowed on the roads on alternate days. This measure aims to reduce traffic congestion and limit the emissions of pollutants from vehicles.
New Delhi consistently ranks among the most polluted cities in the world, particularly during the onset of winter in November. During this time, calm winds and low temperatures trap pollutants emitted from various sources, leading to a significant deterioration in air quality.
On Monday, air quality in the city remained in the “severe” category for the third consecutive day, according to the federal pollution control body. As a result, the city government has extended the closure of primary schools until November 10.
Gopal Rai, Delhi’s environment minister, expressed concerns about the potential rise in air pollution following the Diwali festival on November 12. During Diwali, despite a ban on firecrackers, they are often set off, exacerbating air pollution levels in the city.
Despite the ongoing air pollution crisis, a cricket World Cup match between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh proceeded as scheduled in New Delhi on Monday. Organizers took measures to mitigate the impact of pollution by installing air purifiers in the players’ dressing rooms and using water sprinklers to reduce pollutants in the air.
The government’s decision to restrict vehicle usage underscores the urgent need to address the air pollution problem in New Delhi. By implementing these measures, authorities aim to improve air quality and protect the health and well-being of residents.
3 days of horrible pollution in New Delhi — with PM2.5 levels at 400+ and Air Quality Index (AQI) of 600+
Out of the 100 most polluted cities in the world, 65 are from India.
Nobody has a solution but everyone has a favorite culprit. ????
— S.L. Kanthan (@Kanthan2030) November 4, 2023
