Delhi Imposes Vehicle and Office Restrictions to Fight Pollution

Post by : Saif Nasser

Delhi, one of the world's most polluted cities, has introduced strict measures to tackle the worsening air quality that has reached dangerous levels in recent days. Authorities on Wednesday announced restrictions on vehicles, office attendance, and construction activities to control pollution and protect public health.

The air quality index (AQI) in Delhi, which is home to 30 million people, has been in the 'severe' category for several days, often surpassing 450. Thick fog combined with heavy pollution has reduced visibility, affecting flights, trains, and daily commuting.

To combat this, the Commission for Air Quality Management invoked stage four of the Graded Response Action Plan, the highest level, for Delhi and its surrounding areas. This stage includes multiple curbs aimed at reducing emissions and limiting outdoor pollution.

Under the new measures, older diesel trucks that do not meet the latest emission standards are banned from entering the city. Construction activities, including public projects, have been temporarily suspended. Schools have implemented hybrid classes, and private and government offices will operate at only 50 percent capacity, with the rest of the staff working from home.

To support daily-wage construction workers affected by the suspension, the government announced compensation of 10,000 rupees ($110) per worker.

"Our government is committed to providing clean air in Delhi. We will take strict steps to ensure this in the coming days," said Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Delhi's Environment Minister.

Winter pollution is a recurring problem in Delhi and its neighboring regions. Cold, dense air traps smoke from vehicles, construction, and crop burning from nearby states, pushing pollution levels to some of the highest in the world. Experts warn that such high pollution exposes residents to serious respiratory and cardiovascular risks.

Authorities hope that the current measures will help reduce emissions and provide relief to the people, while also raising awareness about the need for long-term solutions to Delhi's persistent air pollution crisis.