Delhi air pollution updates: SC seeks immediate action from govt to stop 'emergency-like' situation in state

Visibilty remains at 1,000 metres in Delhi

The humidity at 8.30 am. was 91 percent and visibility stood at 1,000 metres. There was no rain expected for a week, an IMD official said.

The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 25.5 degrees Celsius, which is two notches below the season’s average.

Delhi half marathon to take place despite smog crisis in city

The Airtel Delhi Half Marathon will go ahead as usual on 19 November despite requests from medical associations, activists to cancel the event, according to   NDTV . Runners exerting themselves in the smoggy air face the risk of lung damage and heart attacks, said KK Aggarwal, president of the Indian Medical Association, by phone, citing similar deaths in Beijing.

Gurugram professionals to take part in ‘Car Free Challenge’ from 20-26 November

A group of professionals from Gurugram are taking part in the #TheCarFreeChallenge from 20-26 November to combat air pollution. The effort is to “maximise the use of sustainable transport like bus, metro, etc.” 

I am participating in the Car Free Challenge to help fight #pollution. Join me and show your support by registering here: https://t.co/ccRwNiPZx4 #DelhiSmog #Gurgaon

— Vaibhav Gadodia (@whoisvaibhav) November 17, 2017

Air quality ‘very poor’ in city: Delhi Traffic Police

pic.twitter.com/UUCTleD0z8

— Delhi Traffic Police (@dtptraffic) November 17, 2017

AAP failed to spend environment cess to curb Delhi pollution, says Opposition leader Vijender Gupta

Leader of Opposition in Delhi Assembly Vijender Gupta on Thursday alleged that the AAP government not only “failed” to spend the environment cess fund but also did not furnish quarterly details of expenditure from it to the Supreme Court and the EPCA as mandated by the court.

He alleged that the Delhi government did not spend a “single penny” of the environment compensation charge (ECC) to address the problem caused by rising air pollution. “Also they did not apprise the Supreme Court of the same and kept the people in dark,” Gupta alleged.

SAFAR study reveals dust storm in West Asia chief trigger behind smog crisis in Delhi

As Delhi and its neighbours spar over stubble burning, a Centre-run monitoring agency has identified a West Asian dust storm as the chief trigger behind the recent smog episode in the region.

On 8 November, the contribution of the dust storm was 40 percent, eclipsing the role of emissions from stubble burning, which stood at 25 percent, the Pune-based System of Air Quality And Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) said.

That was the day pollution levels peaked with PM2.5 concentration reaching 640 micrograms per cubic metre (ug/m3), according to the SAFAR scientific assessment report of the week-long pollution crisis accessed by PTI.

“Rest was made up of emissions from local sources such vehicular combustion. If external sources did not have any role, levels of PM2.5 during this period could have been around 200 µg/m3,” the report stated.

NGT allows trucks to enter Delhi; asks states to submit report in two weeks

NGT permits trucks to enter Delhi on Friday and directed neighbouring states to submit action plan on steps to curb pollution within two weeks.

Image: Mahatma Gandhi’s statue wears a mask

A policeman removes the anti-pollution mask from the Gandhi Statue at Gyarah Murti which was put by rebel AAP MLA Kapil Misra and BJP MLA Manjinder Singh Sirsa during their protest against smog and air-pollution, in New Delhi on Thursday. 

Image courtesy: PTI

Meanwhile, Mahatma Gandhi’s statue being protected from the smog

2 MLAs @KapilMishraAAP and @mssirsa tie mask on Mahatama Gandhi statue, protest against unused green fund #DelhiSmog pic.twitter.com/OQr8akstmS

— AapHaiPaap (@AapHaiPaap_) November 17, 2017

Air Quality Index at Delhi’s Siri Fort still at ‘Hazardous’ level

NGT allows construction activities in NCR

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Friday allowed construction activities in the National Capital Region (NCR) while directing that preventive measures to control air pollution be taken. Other prohibitory orders concerning industries, stubble burning etc. will remain in place.  

Prohibitory order regarding industries, burning of crops etc shall continue. Sprinkling of water will continue where particles are dense, also to be implemented in the states of Punjab, Haryana and UP. Delhi and neighboring states to file status report within two weeks: NGT

— ANI (@ANI) November 17, 2017

After south Delhi, east and north Delhi roll back parking fee hike

After the SDMC, civic bodies in east and north Delhi have also rolled back the four-time parking fees hike , officials on Thursday said.

The three municipal corporations had quadrupled the parking fees a week ago, following the order by Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal in view of high-level of pollution in the city. “Enhanced parking rates of four times the previous one will cease to operate with immediate effect,” the EDMC said in an order.

40 trains delayed, 13 rescheduled, six cancelled in Delhi due to poor air quality

#Visuals from New Delhi Railway Station: 40 trains delayed, 13 rescheduled and six cancelled #Pollution pic.twitter.com/oLbSExJUuW

— ANI (@ANI) November 17, 2017

Driven out By Delhi smog, Costa Rica envoy says ‘India I Love You, But…’

High level of air pollution in Delhi has affected the health of the Costa Rican envoy in New Delhi, prompting her to retreat to Bengaluru.

Ambassador of Costa Roca to India Mariela Cruz Alvarez appealed to the people, saying the “blue planet is crying” due to pollution.

In a personal blog post , she said: “This past weeks the levels of pollution in Delhi reached impossible numbers.  The consequences of breathing this air i had no idea-  until i reached Bangalore and my system collapsed.  My clean Costa rican lungs know nothing about air quality forecast,  particles of PM10 and its monitoring, the same as we know nothing about extreme changes in temperature.  I´m used to living in paradise and suddenly India has become a threat to my health and the health of my friends and colleagues.”

Farmers will need handouts worth $500 million a year to switch to alternative ways of disposing farm stubble

NITI Aayog, the government’s economic planning think-tank , has estimated farmers would need handouts worth about $500 million a year to switch to alternative ways of disposing farm stubble, said an official who was involved in the preparation of the report.

Another $100 million is needed to reward local bodies for adopting best practices and funding awareness campaigns, the official said.

News18 reports: AAP’s bus scam busted

A damning RTI reply indicts Delhi the government. While AAP has been pinning the blame on Center for allegedly taking away the land meant to build a bus depot, an RTI reply has revealed that Delhi govt rented bus depots to private operators as parking lots. 

The RTI reply assumes importance as Delhi gasps for some clear air. The Kejriwal government has received a lot of flak for not boosting public transport in the city. Delhi needs more buses powered by the clean fuel CNG as the national capital and the surrounding region are swallowed by thick smog that developed due to a host of factors, including automobile emissions, the Delhi High Court told the Kejriwal government on Tuesday .

Delhi Half Marathon to proceed as planned

Delhi High Court allows Half Marathon in Delhi to proceed as planned, after the organisers submitted that they have put in a refund policy for those runners who want to opt out and there are measures in place to deal with medical emergencies, The Indian Express reports.

World Bank estimates pollution cost the country as much as 7.7 percent of the GDP in 2013

It’s not just the crop burning — a combination of industrial smog, vehicle exhaust and dust envelop the region every year as winter approaches and wind speeds drop. It’s been particularly bad this year with levels of PM 2.5, tiny particulate matter that reaches deep into the lungs, climbing to over 600 last week, according to a US Embassy measure.

The upper limit for healthy air is 50, the government has said.

Respiratory diseases killed about 10 people a day in the year to March 2017 in the national capital region, according to the health ministry. The World Bank estimates pollution cost the country as much as 7.7 percent of the GDP in 2013.

Only God can save us: Delhi officials

A major source of the smog at this time of year across northern India, including New Delhi, is farmers burning the stubble of the previous crop to prepare for new plantings in November.

An estimated $600 million is needed to provide farmers with alternatives, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi and opposition parties in power in New Delhi and nearby Punjab states are squabbling over who will pay, said three federal government officials who have been briefed on the situation.

“Nothing more is likely to happen this year,” said one of them. “We’re now praying. Only God can save us," Reuters quoted officials as saying.

Officials sprinkle water in Lucknow to reduce pollution levels

Officials in UP’s Lucknow are also battling heavy pollution in the city. ANI reports that fire brigade services sprinkled water in Mall Avenue, Vikramaditya Marg, Kalidas Marg, Dilkusha areas and near Raj Bhavan in Lucknow in the light of an increase in the pollution in the city.

Fire Brigade Services sprinkled water in Mall Avenue, Vikramaditya Marg, Kalidas Marg, Dilkusha areas and near Raj Bhavan in Lucknow in the light of an increase in the pollution in the city. pic.twitter.com/7w19wbzHOD

— ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) November 17, 2017

SAFAR predicts air quality might take hit over the weekend

SAFAR (System of Air Quality And Weather Forecasting And Research) has forecast that air quality may dip over the weekend due to incursion of moisture and fall in inversion layer which will keep pollutants trapped near the surface.

The air quality index (AQI), at 363, was in the ‘very poor’ zone. The volume (24-hour rolling average) of ultrafine particulates PM2.5 and PM10 were 184 and 299 micrograms per cubic metre respectively.

Trucks enter city as L-G lifts ban

Delhi breathed relatively easy as air quality remained outside the ‘severe plus’ category for the third day straight, prompting authorities to withdraw the ban on entry of trucks and restore parking fees to usual rates.

The Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority lifted the ban on construction activities as well but Lt Governor Anil Baijal kept it in abeyance as the matter was pending with the National Green Tribunal (NGT).

The NGT, which had separately issued an order banning entry of trucks (except those carrying essential commodities), has posted the matter for hearing tomorrow.

26 trains delayed, six cancelled as temperature in capital drops below average

Six trains were cancelled and 26 were running late due to shallow fog in northern India, according to railway spokesperson. It was a misty Thursday morning in the national capital with the minimum temperature recorded at 13 degrees Celsius, which is a notch below the season’s average.

As smog looms large in Delhi, RTI plea reveals AAP govt spent only Rs 93 lakh out of Rs 787 crore environment money

While the National Capital Region continues to battle smog, an RTI query has revealed that the Delhi government utilised only Rs 93 lakh out of the Rs 787 crore it had collected as environment cess.

According to a report on CNN-News18, the RTI petition filed by Sanjeev Jain revealed that the Delhi government had received over Rs 50 crore as environment cess in 2015. However, there was a massive increase in collection in 2016 and 2017, when the AAP government collected Rs 386 crore and Rs 787 crore respectively.

Of this, Rs 93 lakh was paid to the South Delhi Municipal Corporation for payment towards pre-tendering incidental cost related to preparation of RFID documents, said a copy in India Today.

Expert slam EPCA’s knee-jerk reaction 

Speaking to CNN-News18, environmentalist Vimlendu Jha said," Environment is custodian of environment and not the economy. Ecology is important for the city. But if the EPCA does not show concern about ecology then I do not know who will do so? First, they implement these rules but just two days, all measures are withdrawn. This is nothing but a knee-jerk reaction from EPCA. I am disappointed."

North, east Delhi was to continue with revised rates

While the parking fees in areas falling under the South Delhi Municipal Corporation, which were quadrupled a week ago, were to be restored to the previous rates from Thursday onwards, the NDMC and EDMC corporations were to continue with the revised rates. But with the EPCA’s latest decision, all corporations now need to go back to the original rates.

Heavy smog led to Four-time hike in parking charges

The SMDC and the other two municipal corporations — the North Delhi Municipal Corporation and the East Delhi Municipal Corporation — had effected a four-time hike in the fees from 9 November, following the order by Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal in view of the high-level of pollution in the city.

Parking fees hike also withdrawn 

The EPCA has also withdrawn the four-fold hike in parking fees in Delhi, ANI reported.

Ban on all construction work lifted in Delhi

The Environment Pollution Control Board said that not only has the ban on construction work been lifted but also the curbs on entry of trucks been lifted. The EPCA said that the decision has been taken as the smog situation is now under control.

EPCA lifts ban on construction work, entry of trucks 

#FLASH: Environment Pollution Control Authority issues direction removing ban on entry of trucks, construction works in #Delhi, four-time hike in parking fees also withdrawn pic.twitter.com/5bopBZMphB

— ANI (@ANI) November 16, 2017

Updates for 16 November 2017 begin

SAD-BJP to protest against Arvind Kejrwal 

According to India Today, SAD and Congress workers are demanding expulsion of Sukhpal Singh Khaira from the Aam Aadmi Party. The protesters allege AAP defamed Punjab by raking up the issue of drugs and now the party’s own leader is reportedly involved in a case of drug smuggling.

Arvind Kejriwal arrives in Chandigarh

ML Khattar’s ‘one-hand-distance’ diktat

According to CNN News18, the Haryana government has come out with a diktat ahead of ML Khattar’s meeting with Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal. A notification said that journalists need to keep an one-hand-distance from Khattar.

Amarinder Singh snubs Arvind Kejriwal’s request to meet

On Tuesday, Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh rejected Kejriwal’s request to meet and instead asked him to refrain from “trying to politicise a serious issue”.

Kejriwal had blamed stubble burning for smog situation

The Delhi chief minister had earlier blamed stubble burning by farmers in Punjab and Haryana for the thick smog that has descended over Delhi. He had also written to the Chief Ministers of both states and requested for a joint meeting to “find solution” to the problem that has led to widespread health concerns in the National Capital Region.

Kejriwal accompanied by environment minister, bureaucrat 

Delhi Environment Minister Imran Hussain and Environment Department Secretary Keshav Chandra are also accompanying the Delhi chief minister to the meeting with Haryana chief minister ML Khattar.

Arvind Kejriwal tweeted about his upcoming meeting with Khattar

Myself, Del Env Minister n Env Secy on our way to Haryana to discuss issues related to pollution with Hon'ble CM of Haryana and his team. Look forward to a fruitful discussion

— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) November 15, 2017

Updates for 15 November 2017 begin

Here’s a look at how India and China, the countries with the world’s dirtiest air, stack up on their fight against air pollution

Infographic courtesy: network18creative

It seems like Delhiites have not be disillusioned by the festering Delhi smog, fitness enthusiasts work out despite the poor air quality condition in the national capital 

Indian fitness enthusiasts work out amid heavy smog in New Delhi.
Schools have reopened despite a fresh spike in pollution to emergency levels, drawing protests from parents in the Indian capital who say the move puts children's health in jeopardy pic.twitter.com/LHhMcP3Mxp

— AFP News Agency (@AFP) November 13, 2017

Air quality level at hazardous level in Mandir Marg, Delhi 

MeT update of smog situation in North India 

The India Meteorological Department observed that very dense fog has been observed at most places over Punjab, Haryana and north Rajasthan; while moderate to dense fog persists at a few places over Delhi (SFD/PLM) and rest Uttar Pradesh.
 

The lowest visibility (<500 M) observed at 08.30 hours IST of today: Amritsar, Ludhiana, Patiala, Ambala, Ganganagar, Hissar & Rohtak ­25 M each; Bareilly ­50 M; Delhi ( SFD/PLM) & Meerut­ 200 M each and  Lucknow & Fursatganj­ 500 each.

Govt is playing with children’s health, accuse angry parents as schools reopen after 5 days

Angry parents accused Delhi authorities on Monday of “playing with children’s health” as schools reopened despite a fresh surge in pollution to emergency levels.

“There has been no let-up in the pollution levels. So if the situation is the same, action should be the same. Why open the schools now?” said Ashok Agrawal, president of the All India Parents Association.

“On one hand the government is saying there is a health emergency and on the other, they are playing with children’s health. “It is so disturbing to see children coughing and struggling to breathe all the way to the school.”

Arvind Kejriwal retaliates to Manohar Lal Khattar’s request for a meeting, says his office ‘is constantly trying to fix meeting’

Sir, my office is constantly trying to fix meeting https://t.co/47LwxvQmjp

— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) November 13, 2017

Cleaning capital’s toxic air requires scientific thinking, compliance and political will

Cleaning Delhi’s air—a problem that has now reached alarming proportions—thus, requires political will, unified planning, scientific thinking, engineering innovation, administrative compliance and cross-national cooperation, as it is indeed, a problem of north India. Unfortunately, all that the past week has brought us has been uncooperative federalism, unscientific remarks, angry courts and toxic air. Any debate and dialogue around air pollution must not revolve around personalities and politics and must rather adhere to principles of science and prudent policy.

Mothers advocate for clean air for children in a maternity beauty pageant

Winners of the ‘Maternity Queen 2017 Contest’ pose with masks to spread message “Swacch Hawa-Surakshit Ma-Shishu” (Clean Air Safe Mother and Child), in Chandigarh on Sunday.

Image courtesy: PTI 

Recap: Delhi govt moves NGT seeking changes in odd-even scheme; green panel to hear plea tomorrow

The Delhi government on Monday moved the National Green Tribunal (NGT) seeking amendment in its 11 November order on odd-even car rationing scheme. The green panel said it will hear the plea on Tuesday.

Rahul Gandhi takes a swipe at Narendra Modi for his silence on Delhi air pollution issue 

Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi recalled lines from a Bollywood film song to take a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the air pollution issue in the national capital.

Gandhi, with the help of a song from the 1978 film “Gaman”, indirectly referred to government ‘inaction’ on pollution.

He added a new line to the verse, bringing in a “Saheb” who remains quiet despite being in the know.

सीने में जलन, आँखों में तूफ़ान सा क्यों है

इस शहर में हर शख़्स परेशान सा क्यों है?

क्या बताएँगे साहेब, सब जानकर अंजान क्यों हैं? https://t.co/XZLqsWD0CO

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 13, 2017

Manohar Lal Khattar confronts Arvind Kejriwal, asks what the chief minister has done to end stubble burning in Delhi 

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar posted a letter to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday, asking him to ‘rise about electoral interests’ and confront the stubble burning issue that is rampant in Delhi as well. In the letter, he mentions that he is willing to meet the AAP leader between 13 and 14 November to discuss the issue. 

My letter to Delhi CM @ArvindKejriwal regarding stubble burning & pollution. pic.twitter.com/3rd9Qvi5RQ

— Manohar Lal (@mlkhattar) November 13, 2017

“Significant improvement in air quality. There is a possibility of rain. There is no need to panic. Pollution in Delhi will ease as the weather improves in a couple of days,” Union Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan tells News18. 

#BREAKING — Union Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan says, the pollution will ease as the weather improves #IWantToBreathe pic.twitter.com/oPdNtsQ1X8

— News18 (@CNNnews18) November 13, 2017

SC seeks explanation from Centre, state governments on pollution rise in Delhi-NCR 

The Supreme Court issues notice to the Center, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and Delhi government on a petition on stubble burning and dust pollution, reports ANI_._ The apex court observed that it was an “emergency-like situation” and sought expeditious action. 

A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices AM Khanwilkar and DY Chandrachud said that there won’t be any stay on matters pertaining to pollution which are going on before any other court.

The apex court issued notice to the Centre and the state governments concerned on the plea which also sought a direction to promote solar energy and electric vehicles to check pollution.

The plea filed by lawyer R K Kapoor has claimed that rise in dust particles on roads, stubble burning in Delhi’s neighbouring states like Haryana and Punjab have led to an alarming rise in pollution levels in the NCR and its adjoining areas.

The fresh plea has sought directions to the Centre and the states concerned to take measures on curbing road dust and stubble burning. It has also sought effective implementation of the odd-even car rationing scheme. 

With inputs from PTI

As odd-even plan falls through, tussle over exemptions highlights challenges in solving current crisis

Arunodoy Prakash, media advisor to Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia told Firstpost that Delhi’s present public transport system cannot bear the gargantuan load of additional commuters that the lack of exemption to two-wheelers would cause.

“More than 32 lakh people travel by bikes every day in Delhi. If they are not exempted from the odd-even scheme, they may shift to public transportation system. Delhi’s public transportation cannot take that load. We needed to exempt them from the odd-even scheme,” he said.

Speaking with Firstpost, AAP MLA, Anil Bajpai said, “We cannot compromise on the issue of women’s safety. If the odd-even scheme is allowed without any exemption, women’s safety might be at risk.”

Though both the arguments to offer the exemptions under the odd-even are serious ones, people who moved NGT against the odd-even scheme say the exemptions are nothing but the politics of the AAP-led government.

Air quality level below hazardous level in NCR’s Faridabad

AAP government files review plea in NGT, petition to be heard tomorrow

Delhi Government files an appeal in the National Green Tribunal seeking certain changes in NGT's previous directions. Tribunal likely to hear the plea, tomorrow #OddEven #AirPollution

— ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2017

ITO continues to be the least polluted area in Delhi

Image courtesy: AQICN.org

Include two-wheelers and three-wheelers in odd-even scheme

Odd-even restrictions have to apply to two-wheelers and three-wheelers for the scheme to succeed, says a researcher at the New York-based Columbia University, doubting its efficacy in the long run.

According to V Faye McNeill, associate professor of Chemical Engineering in the institute, the impact of the odd- even scheme fizzles out eventually as drivers find ways around the restrictions. “Controlling emissions from transportation is very important, but in the long term I don’t think that the odd- even scheme is going to be the answer,” she told PTI in an email interview.

Will move ‘Right to clean air’ Bill in Parliament, says Deepender Singh Hooda

Have written to PM requesting to constitute high level committee including CMs of north Indian states, he should head it himself. Everyone should rise above political lines & sit together, present before nation a plan with budgetary provisions: Deepender Hooda,Cong #AirPollution pic.twitter.com/Virz58tpii

— ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2017

I am planning to move a Right to Clean Air Bill as a private member bill in Lok Sabha, in the winter session. This is a bill in which I will be putting together thoughts of all citizens, experts: Deepender Hooda,Congress #AirPollution pic.twitter.com/cqimoO9zQ0

— ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2017

We will re-file review petition in NGT, says AAP

Delhi CM & cabinet are in touch with environment scientists&continuously monitoring situation. Movement of trucks&construction works are under scrutiny, water is being sprinkled. We're re-filing before NGT that 2 wheelers&women be exempted from Odd Even: Gopal Rai, Delhi Minister pic.twitter.com/CqVDP9vrvg

— ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2017

Closely monitoring the situation, doing more than what our capacity is, says AAP

“The Delhi government is in touch with the environment ministry. In the last 48 hours, we have got information about the smog situation through state and centre monitoring centres. We have taken the report made by scientists and presented it in our cabinet. The report said that pollution has been declining since last 48 hours. However, the situation is still fluctuating. The government is keeping a close eye on it. In the evening, we are meeting Pawan Hans for water sprinkling efforts,” Gopal Rai, AAP leader said.  

On filing a review petition in the NGT, Rai said, “We will also file another review petition in the NGT. Our lawyers are inside the NGT court. Slamming Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Rai added, “I don’t know if AAP is playing politics or Khattar. There is more pollution in Haryana and Punjab but they are running away from responsibility. We are doing more than what our capacity is,” AAP leader Gopal Rai told reporters on Monday

Will carpooling help reduce pollution?  

“Force Ola/Uber to do a certain number of pool rides, to allow them to ply in the city. Forces them to incentivise pooling. Might make regular rides more expensive, so let them subsidise car-pooling. No carpooling allowed right now from airport,” writes Nikhil Pahwa, founder of Medianama.

Helpless residents start ‘Quit Delhi’ movement 

Social media is abuzz with ‘Quit Delhi’ movement, as many Delhi residents have apparently made up their minds to leave the city. 

Does today mean 9 am only? asks AAP govt over NGT review plea

When asked whether the AAP government would file a review petition with the NGT, Naginder Sharma — who is the media advisor to the Delhi chief minister — said there is still time to file the review petition with the green body. “We said we will file the plea today. Does today mean 9 am only?”

Sitaram Yechury targets Centre for inaction 

Enough money for Modi's advertisements and PR campaigns, but none to prevent pollution. Rs 3000 crore is what Modi govt said it doesn't have. pic.twitter.com/mOVUiXOg12

— Sitaram Yechury (@SitaramYechury) November 13, 2017

Khattar slams Kejriwal over ‘pollution politics’

While urging Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal to rise above politics to solve the issue of pollution, Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar said, “I will be in Delhi on Monday and Tuesday. There is no response from your office on meeting,” Khattar quoted by NDTV as saying, “There are 40,000 farmers in Delhi. What are you doing about them?”

Kejriwal government made long term plans to curb pollution  

Long-term interventions and schemes to be coordinated or executed by the Environment Department and the MCDs included green crematoriums, 150-point city-wide real-time air pollution monitoring, PUC revamp, landfill bioventing, construction and demolition activity management, incentivising LPG, the idea of mohalla rasois, designs to end tandoor pollution, brick kiln redesign, market night cleaning, replanning of bus routes, congestion pricing, electric bus promotion, stringent parking policy and BRT redesign.

Meanwhile, RK Puram is still the most polluted locality in Delhi 

ITO is currently the least polluted area in Delhi

Manohar Lal Khattar set to meet Arvind Kejriwal today

Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar will be meeting Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday to discuss issues relating to pollution. According to ANI, the latest development came after Kejriwal wrote to Khattar seeking help.  The Haryana chief minister then wrote back on Friday, saying that he would be in Delhi between 13 and 14 November.

How odd-even worked across Delhi

During the odd-even scheme, the roads no longer choked with bumper-to-bumper traffic; public transport buses (DTC) increased their operational efficiency to 1.5 times; the scheme reduced the problem of vehicle engine idling, reducing harmful emissions; ambulances didn’t get stuck in traffic leading to lesser deaths in hospital trauma centres; lesser traffic meant lesser emissions and the PM 2.5 & 10 levels came down drastically over a sustained period of time. 

Read the full analysis here.

PIL seeks Supreme Court intervention in three issues

The PIL filed by lawyer RK Kapoor seeks Supreme Court’s intervention in curbing stubble burning and dust arising from construction. It also seeks effective implementation of the odd-even car rationing scheme.

NGT slams Kejriwal government for not filing review petition

NGT on #Delhi Smog and #OddEven: Delhi Government has still not moved modification application on NGT on the issue of #OddEven. NGT observes "govt approaching us or was its minister's statement for press only?"

— ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2017

NGT asks whether the Delhi government was only informing the media about a review petition on the #OddEven scheme since no review petition has been filed as yet.

— ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2017

Three-judge bench to hear plea by RK Kapoor

A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra, Justices AM Khanwilkar and DY Chandrachud considered the submission of lawyer RK Kapoor that rise in dust particles on roads, stubble burning in Delhi’s neighbouring states Haryana and Punjab have led to an alarming rise in pollution levels in the NCR and its adjoining areas.

Situation may improve in coming days, says CPCB

​

According to D Saha of the CPCB, there is no relief for NCR region for at least for a few more days. “The concentration of pollution particles is still higher. However, the problem is expected to alleviate by Wednesday as rains are set to hit city,” CNN News18 quoted Saha said.

Delhi government fails to file a review petition in NGT

Despite indicating that it will be filing a review petition in the NGT over the odd-even issue, the AAP government failed to do so on Monday. According to CNN News18, the government was expected to file a petition at 10.30 am, yet there was no representation. Sources told the channel that the Supreme Court hearing may have been a reason for the AAP government not filing a review plea in the NGT.

Watch: Supreme Court to intervene in Delhi smog issue

#BREAKING - PIL in SC wants measures against stubble burning in Punjab & Haryana #IWantToBreathe pic.twitter.com/omqffh00fz

— News18 (@CNNnews18) November 13, 2017

Supreme Court intervenes in Delhi smog issue

According to CNN-News18, the Supreme Court of India will hear a PIL on the Delhi smog crisis. According to News18, the CJI is believed to have said that the issue cannot be ignored anymore. The PIL, which is expected to be heard in the afternoon, may also deal with the stubble burning issue in Punjab and Haryana.

Two express trains were delayed by a day

The Rejandra Nagar Terminal-New Delhi Sampoorna Kranti Express was delayed by over 24 hours while the Sitamarhi-Anand Vihar Lichavi Express was delayed by over 25 hours.

Delhi international airport functioning normally

According to the Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), no flights were delayed or cancelled. Nevertheless, US-based United Airlines had suspended flights from Newark to New Delhi due to the smog situation.

Pollutants from Punjab, Haryana responsible for Delhi smog 

“The pollutants were transported to Delhi and other parts of northwest India by strong-velocity high-altitude winds coming from West Asia. These, along with pollutants from stubble burning regions of Punjab and Haryana, pushed up the pollution levels in Delhi,” said Gufran Beig, project director of the System of Air Quality And Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), was quoted by Hindustan Times as saying.

Eight trains cancelled due to smog in Delhi, NCR

The cancelled trains include New Delhi-Varanasi Mahanama Express, Delhi-Azamgarh Kaifiyat Express, Anand Vihar-Mau Express, Sriganganagar-Delhi Intercity, Delhi-Fazlika Intercity, Delhi-Alipurdwar Mahananda Express and Raxual-Delhi Sadbhawana Express.

IANS

What government must do to curb pollution in Delhi

According to Nikhil Pahwa, the founder of Medianama, there are several solutions to alleviate the pollution problem. According to Pahwa, the authorities must stop trucks from plying within Delhi city limits between 6 am and midnight. He added that trucks and buses mixing kerosene and diesel should be impounded, and fined. Pahwa opined that buses from other states should be allowed to enter Delhi only if they meet certain pollution norms.

What is the odd-even plan? 

The “odd-even” is a road-rationing scheme wherein for a specified period of time (15 days), vehicles, with the last digit of their number plates as odd or even, plied alternately on odd and even days.

Ditch dumb odd-even, look at real solutions: Economic Times editorial

In its editorial, Economic Times criticised the odd-even plan and added that the AAP government must mobilise voluntary squads, which will educate people to not burn trash.

“Even as the capital’s sky darkened with smog over the last week, smoke spiralling up from heaps of burning trash could be spotted in different parts of the city. This must stop,” the editorial read.

AAP government resolved to improve green cover in Delhi

After being elected in February 2015, the Aam Aadmi Party’s Delhi government resolved to increase green cover of Delhi from the present 20 percent to 25 percent in the next five years, aided by tree plantation, census and audit. An overarching community-centric plan to improve the environment was also envisioned.

United Airlines resumes flights to New Delhi

US-based carrier United Airlines has resumed flights between Newark, New Jersey and New Delhi after it was halted due to poor air quality, The Indian Express reported.

“UA Flight 82 has resumed operations, but we will continue to monitor conditions over the next few days”, a spokesman told Reuters.

India has worst air quality in the world: Risk consultancy firm

According to Verisk Maplecroft, a risk consultancy firm, India had the worst air quality out of a list of 198 countries it measures, and that New Delhi ranked among the world’s top 10 most polluted cities, The Indian Express reported.

Air quality still hazardous in RK Puram locality 

As per the 8 am update, the air quality in RK Puram locality in Delhi is still ‘hazardous’. However, the latest figure is well below Sunday’s 999 in AQI. 

Punjabi Bagh locality most polluted 

According to latest AQI figures, Delhi’s Mandir Marg is at 523, Anand Vihar is at 510, Shadipur is at 420 and Punjabi Bagh is at 743. All four places fall in the ‘Hazardous’ category in the Air Quality Index.

Closing schools not a solution, says teachers

Schools in #Delhi reopen, after being closed due to severe #smog conditions in the national capital. Students seen wearing masks, teachers 'say collective efforts must be made, closing schools not a solution' pic.twitter.com/Mi1isF5hhM

— ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2017

Smog continues to engulf Connaught Place

#Smog continues to shroud the national capital: Visuals from #Delhi's Connaught Place pic.twitter.com/X2BtqGnj2f

— ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2017

Gurugram schools to be shut today

PTI reported that Haryana government has announced that schools in Gurugram, in the National Capital Region region, will remain closed on Monday.

Schools to reopen on Monday after five-day break

All schools in the national capital will reopen on Monday after a five-day break announced by the Delhi government in view of the alarming air pollution levels, an official said on Sunday.

​"Schools will reopen tomorrow and the break is not being further extended," a Delhi government official told PTI.

Updates for 13 November 2017 begin

Delhiites defy smog to participate in the annual pride parade

People brave the #smog to participate in the 10th #queer pride parade
Photos: @ANINDYAtimes pic.twitter.com/TwmTFSW0SK

— TOI Delhi (@TOIDelhi) November 12, 2017

Air pollution levels drops significantly in Gurugram 

Gurugram, where pollution levels were around 460 in the Air Quality Index on Saturday, recorded a siginificant drop in pollution levels. As per the 3 pm update, the pollution level in Gurugram stood at 300 in the Air Quality Index. 

Air pollution below hazardous levels in IHBAS 

Punjabi Bagh’s AQI remains in ‘hazardous’ category

The AQI in Punjabi Bagh area, which was reportedly the worst hit in New Delhi because of the smog, is at 425 as of 4pm. The PM2.5 level is at 421.

Congress MP Deepender Singh Hooda writes to PM Narendra Modi over pollution situation in North India

MP Deepender Singh Hooda writes to PM Narendra Modi over pollution situation in North India, including Delhi; requests him to take strong steps in the direction.

— ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2017

Air quality level at Delhi’s RK Puram improves, AQI index shows air pollution level reduced to 654 from previous 999

Air quality in New Delhi’s RK Puram showed slight improvement as the Air Quality Index recorded it at 654 at 3pm on Sunday. Just three hours ago, the index showed the level at 999.

NGT orders AAP government to seize 10-year-old diesel and 15-year-old petrol vehicles

It also directed the AAP government and the traffic police to challan and seize 10-year-old diesel vehicles and 15-year-old petrol vehicles to curb air pollution in the city.

“The counsel appearing for NCT Delhi has informed that the site has already been provided for keeping the vehicles which are impounded/seized by the police being 10 years old vehicles in the case of diesel and 15 years old in the case of petrol.

“We direct the Commissioner of Police, Delhi to ensure that vehicles which are violating the above directions of the tribunal should be seized and compliance report be submitted to the tribunal on the next date of hearing,” the bench said.

PTI

Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan backs demand for smog cutters in urban areas

really ? .. need to get one of these https://t.co/cWFpXMDSxS

— Amitabh Bachchan (@SrBachchan) November 12, 2017

Swaraj India slams AAP government’s measures to tackle pollution

The Swaraj India party on Saturday hit out at Delhi’s Aam Aadmi Party government’s knee-jerk reactions to tackle the pollution menace instead of taking long term institutional measures.

“I am not, in principle, opposed to odd-even scheme as and when it is required but Delhi’s public transport is in shambles. Our national capital not even has 3,000 buses as against a requirement of 10,000. The government has not yet been able to make provisions for last mile connectivity even after making promises in its election manifesto. There has been no policy measure to promote non-motorised transport in the capital,” said its Delhi unit chief Anupam.

IANS

Zomato founder Deepinder Goyal tweets

This morning onwards, our delivery champs in Delhi have been wearing anti pollution masks so that they stay at the peak of their health while delivering your delight to you. #DelhiSmog pic.twitter.com/cI1RqOuXaR

— Deepinder Goyal (@deepigoyal) November 10, 2017

Two-wheelers pollute more than cars

Cars account fr 0.9% of Delhi's PM10 pollution, 2-wheelers 3.3% but @ArvindKejriwal odd-even for cars continues! No wonder NGT kicked him pic.twitter.com/UMrQg58bvQ

— Antevasin 🇮🇳 (@Antevasin10) November 12, 2017

Delhi air quality trend since July 2017

Delhi air quality levels reached severe levels on two occasions. Between 20 and 22 October, the AQI reached nearly 750, while it rose to nearly 1000 between 7 and 10 November. 

Courtesy: Nikhil Pahwa

Smog a regular occurrence in Delhi  

The environmental concern raised by hazardous air quality in Delhi has become an annual feature now. People indulge in the intense discussion at the turn of every winter, only to forget the smog worries when the air becomes slightly breathable. But desperate and revolutionary measures should be adopted to tackle the menace, said experts.

Recurring smog problem discouraging professionals from coming to Delhi  

The smog situation is also affecting the talent landscape of Delhi and NCR. Many professionals are being hesitant to take up career opportunities in and around Delhi and those who are working in Delhi are looking for career opportunities outside the state and opting for western or southern states of
the country.

Companies allowing work-from-home for their employees

Media conglomerate Zee Entertainment enterprises has provided an anti-pollution mask to each employee and is allowing ‘Work from Home’ for employees who are suffering from severe respiratory problems. The organisation has also implemented the ‘Flexi Working Hours’ policy and has taken on board services of a doctor at its Noida office for 10 working days starting 9 November.

NGT urges AAP government to discourage road-side parking  

The National Green Tribunal has directed the Delhi government and the municipal corporations to ensure availability of appropriate parking facilities for cars and discourage road-side parking. A bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar slammed authorities for not complying with its earlier orders to decongest traffic and asked them to take steps in a holistic manner.

Air pollution levels hazardous in all major centres of Delhi, NCR

12 Nov 2017 | Air pollution levels in #Delhi-NCR today. #DelhiSmog #DelhiPollution pic.twitter.com/ElE2DlUxJK

— Zee Business (@ZeeBusiness) November 12, 2017

BJP MP Varun Gandhi urges authorities to make cities more livable

When will we start incorporating inventive technological solutions to make our cities liveable again? #MustWatch #DelhiPollution #DelhiSmog pic.twitter.com/xG3Lers0RP

— Varun Gandhi (@varungandhi80) November 12, 2017

PM2.5 levels high in Gurugram and Faridabad too

The air quality in the National Capital Region too is not better than most parts of Delhi. While Gurugram’s AQI is at 412, while Faridabad’s PM2.5 levels currently stands at 444. All figures are as of 1 pm on Sunday.

Why NGT’s order to stop construction work may not work

The measure to stop construction activities is also to be implemented along with the co-operation of the Centre. The construction of roads is a turnaround scheme of the present regime at the Centre and many such construction projects going on in the capital are carried out by the National Highway Authority of India.

Environmentalist Sunita Narain holds pet coke usage responsible for pollution 

US Airlines stops flights to #DelhiSmog. US Exports its garbage #petcoke. We are not #shamed. We will keep importing

— Sunita Narain (@sunitanar) November 12, 2017

For one year we have been fighting to ban #petcoke. All opposed including @moefcc. Stop pollution threatre

— Sunita Narain (@sunitanar) November 12, 2017

Both Centre and state responsible for the crisis, says Sunita Narain

Speaking to CNN News18, Sunita Narain of the Centre for Science and Environment blamed both the Centre as well as the state governments of Delhi and Punjab for the present crisis. Narain said that the biggest contributor to pollution is the use of pet coke by several industries. However, she added that India is the biggest importer of pet coke from US. Narain said that even China and US do not encourage the use of pet coke owing to pollution issues.

Government formulated GRAP to tackle air pollution  

The Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA), under the prodding of the Supreme Court, had come up with a Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to control severe pollution in the NCR. The notification for the implementation of GRAP was done by the Ministry of Environment on 12 January this year.

What did Beijing do to tackle air pollution?  

After Mexico, it was Beijing’s turn to enjoy the dubious distinction of being the most polluted capital city in the world. Once the Chinese government set their mind on executing an action plan, they did not digress from their objectives. They came up with a tough plan where no new car licenses were given to Beijing citizens who were given the choice of car-pooling and the use of public transportation with no exceptions granted. The Chinese are switching over to renewable energy in a big way and are reducing their dependency on coal power plants.

Air quality level at 999 in Delhi’s RK Puram

How Mexico city tackled air pollution is a lesson to Delhi

Mexico City faced the same problem in the early 90s and in 1992, it was dubbed the most polluted capital in the world. The Mexican government decided to put its act together and prepared a detailed contingency plan which included the compulsory use of catalytic converts in every car, major improvement in public transportation, and the preparation of an ‘Atmospheric Environmental Contingency Plan’ which also includes the restriction of vehicular traffic that comes into operation every time PM 10 levels reach 221.

Delhi smog may affect tourism, says ASSOCHAM

The smog situation in the National Capital Region may adversely affect tourism industry, an Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) report has suggested. The toxic smog, according to Outlook , is likely to affect the economy in sectors like tourism, transport, automobile and real estate.

Connaught Place: Before and after smog

Delhi puts citizens at risk as national capital’s green cover shrinks rapidly  

As our politicians pass the buck with manful indiscrimination, not a single meaningful policy decision has been taken to tackle the basic issues involved, which include unbridled development of cities, lack of clean energy, and the abundant use of plastic, which includes not only plastic bags but thermocol as well. It is often used in temples when they dish out the free food. Then there’s the packaging industry. The list seems endless.

Read the full article here

Why stopping trucks from Delhi is an impossible task

Stopping trucks from entering Delhi is nearly impossible for the government as there is no alternative for these heavy vehicles to pass by without entering the capital city. The Centre rolled out a scheme to construct an Eastern Peripheral Highway to allow the trucks go to Punjab and Uttar Pradesh without entering the capital. The road is still being constructed and is unlikely to be completed before March 2018, which is its latest deadline.

Only people’s will can solve air pollution problem, says litigant

After the NGT passed the order to implement the odd-even scheme without any exemption, Vardhaman Kaushik, another appellant in the case told Firstpost that only the will of the people can solve the problem of air pollution in the national capital.

“People’s awareness in preserving the environment is the only solution. No court order can save us from pollution if it is not implemented as ordered,” he said.

Odd-even plan was implemented in two phases last year

The first phase of the odd-even rule was implemented by the Delhi government from 1 to 15 January and the second phase from 15 to 30 April  last year.

IANS

Delhi’s air is hazardous to breathe  

At Delhi University, the PM 10 level shot up to 614, while PM 2.5 was 571. The area near the Indira Gandhi International airport saw PM 10 at 526 and PM 2.5 at 494. At Pusa, PM1 0 levels touched 489 and PM 2.5 was 469, according to SAFAR.

Exempt women from odd-even scheme for security reasons: DCW chief

Like most women, I am against exemptions and wont avail any. But exemptions to women in odd even is a necessity due to serious security concerns. However, I totally support NO exemptions to VIP & Govt Servants https://t.co/z50LljGlRv

— Swati Maliwal (@SwatiJaiHind) November 11, 2017

Vote bank politics behind AAP government’s exemptions?

People who moved NGT against the odd-even scheme say the exemptions are nothing but the politics of the AAP-led government. “The class of people who ride two-wheelers is the vote bank of AAP. If this class is not exempted than they fear that it might turn against the party,” alleges Gaurav Kumar Bansal, the advocate of appellant Mahendra Pandey.

Delhi smog affects train services

Continuing smog across the National Capital Region has led to the cancellation of eight trains, while 34 will be arriving late and 21 others have been rescheduled, reports ANI.

Rise in PM 2.5 linked to heart diseases, lung cancer

Higher levels of PM 2.5, which are the fine pollution particles, are linked to higher rates of chronic bronchitis, lung cancer and heart disease. PM 2.5 regularly topped 500 this week, at one point going over 1,000, reports AFP.

Air pollution in Delhi and Noida under ‘severe’ category 

PM 10 levels in Delhi's Lodhi Road area at 560, PM 2.5 at 625; PM 10 levels in Noida at 551, PM 2.5 levels at 541; all fall in 'severe' category. #AirPollution (Data Source: SAFAR- System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting & Research) pic.twitter.com/ivTcyW73kM

— ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2017

Threefold rise in patients number at hospitals, doctors say smog shortening lives

Doctors at the government-run Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute say patient numbers have more than tripled since pollution levels spiked amid a change in weather conditions and the annual post-harvest burning of crop stubble in surrounding areas.

Why 300 and 500 mark in Air Quality Index (AQI) is important?

On Saturday, the NGT said that in future, the odd-even scheme should automatically come into force if the PM2.5 and PM10, particles in air with diameter less than 2.5 and 10 mm respectively, levels go above the 300 and 500 mark respectively for 48 hours.

Punjabi Bagh is the worst affected area in Delhi, AQI levels much above danger

Anand Vihar: PM 2.5 and PM 10 levels much above 300 and 500 in AQI

Actor Ayushman Khurana tweets about a smog vaccuum cleaner in Beijing

This! #smog #smogcutter pic.twitter.com/47FvKJCoqx

— Ayushmann Khurrana (@ayushmannk) November 11, 2017

AAP government calls off odd-even as NGT refuses to exempt women from the scheme

One reason why the AAP government exempted women drivers had to do with the concerns regarding safety of women in Delhi. 
 

AAP MLA, Anil Bajpai told Firstpost in this regard, “We cannot compromise on the issue of women’s safety. If odd-even is allowed without any exemption, then women’s safety might be at risk.”

Twitter sees the funny side of Delhi smog

#DelhiSmog @pbhushan1 @ArvindKejriwal @PMOIndia pic.twitter.com/GEyauvRcWL

— Office Of Dr Anand Rai (@anandrai177) November 12, 2017

Smog engulfs Sector 137 in Noida

​

Image courtesy: Asif 

It is tough to breathe, says Delhi residents 

People at India Gate say 'it is tough to breath and the situation needs to be fixed'; many seen wearing masks. #Delhi #smog pic.twitter.com/740JwDLPCZ

— ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2017

Early morning visuals from India Gate

Delhi: Dense #smog continues to engulf the national capital, early morning visuals from India Gate. pic.twitter.com/AuYCEuqN3g

— ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2017

Trucks, vehicles barred from entering Delhi as smog continues

Trucks & heavy vehicles barred entry into #Delhi, in view of high levels of air pollution. Last night visuals from Singhu border area. pic.twitter.com/9w4dGbv1ev

— ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2017

Updates for 12 November 2017 begin

Citizens at risk as Delhi’s green cover shrinks rapidly

For sheer hypocrisy, it’s difficult to beat our politicians. Consider this: As of today, Delhi is very nearly the deadliest city on earth. The only other city rivaling us is a city in Mexico, which with an index of 825 particulate matter at the same level as Patna which is at 824.

The real-time pollution levels in major cities of the country prove that living in much of India can actually be hazardous to your health. Satellite imagery shows conclusively that almost all of western India is blanketed by “atmospheric brown cloud” which are layers of pollution containing soot, dust or other particles. In other words, when vacationing in Nainital/Mussoorie/wherever the Himalayas are, you are actually breathing in great lungfuls of poisoned air.

This is the result of “development with Indian characteristics”.

BJP questions AAP’s intentions with odd-even

Drop in air quality

The concentration of PM2.5 and PM10 hovered around 490 and 290 micrograms per cubic metre during the morning hours of Saturday, marginally below the emergency limit of 500 and 300. But by 6 pm the readings had changed to 522 and 332. In fact, the gains made started diminishing from around 2 pm itself.

SAFAR’s project director Gufran Beig said the drop in both the minimum and maximum temperatures led to the coming down of the boundary layer from around 1600 metres from the surface at 11 am to 50 metres at 5 pm.

“Otherwise our monitors recorded steady improvement over the last one day. The air had turned very poor from severe. In fact, the measures implemented under the Graded Response Action Plan yielded good results. Pollution levels came down by 15-20 per cent due to these measures alone,” he said.

Delhi’s dwindling air quality  

The hourly graph of the Central Control Room for Air Quality Management run by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) captured the sudden change in circumstances.

Based on pollution levels till 5 pm, the CPCB’s air quality index for Saturday had a score of 403, against Friday’s 468.

DTC buses create so much noise, they are great nuisance: NGT

​

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) flayed the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) on Saturday for not maintaining its buses properly and running them without passengers for a major part of the day.

“Your buses create so much noise on the road. They are a great nuisance. Most of parts of your buses are either hanging in air or broken. Why don’t you take proper steps for their maintenance. Either your buses run empty or they are over-loaded,” a bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar observed.

The tribunal rapped the DTC chairman-cum-managing director for not taking note of an NGT order on maintenance of buses and carrying out a rationalisation study so that the vehicles can be used more effectively.

Pollution in Delhi back to ’emergency’

Delhi’s air quality went south and once again entered the ’emergency’ category on Saturday evening, dashing hopes of recovery generated during the morning hours when level of pollutants showed a steady drop.

The dramatic reversal in the situation, hours after the government announced that levels of ultrafine particulates PM2.5 and PM10 had seen a reduction, caught people and weather scientists unaware.

Centre-run air monitoring agency SAFAR’s project director Gufran Beig said that the sharp drop of the boundary layer where pollutants remained trapped for being unable to escape into the upper layer of the atmosphere.

“There is no likelihood of last week’s repeat as there is no fresh influx of pollutants from external sources such as stubble burning or dust storm in the larger region. But recovery will get delayed by at least one more day,” Beig said.

Here at IIT Delhi leadership conclave, Pratik Sharma & Sanjiv found a solution for the current situation in Delhi. They gave me a nozzle filter which comes only for Rs 10 per piece. If this works fine, I congratulate the two for it: Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan pic.twitter.com/krhbsoSc8C

— ANI (@ANI) November 11, 2017

Actor Karan Singh Chhabra seeks inspiration in couple’s shoot in Delhi smog

Safety of women cannot be compromised for odd-even: AAP

In a live video on Facebook, AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj said that the Delhi government brief the NGT on Saturday on why odd-even was being implemented from Monday. “After NGT refused to allow earlier exemptions, the ministers had a meeting with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal,” he said.

He said that the government decided that the safety and security of women cannot be compromised because of odd-even. “Since the NGT was not allowing exemption of women from odd-even, the government had to decide against going ahead with odd-even,” he added.

No odd-even on Monday

Delhi Government would drop implementation of odd-even for one day. It was about to implement it from 13 November. NGT on Saturday ordered it to implement odd even without any exemption except those provided to health emergency. After the order the Delhi government decided not to start implementation of odd even from 13 November.

Arunodoy Prakash, media advisor of Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodiya said that on Monday the Delhi government would approach NGT with a petition to review it’s order. He also said that if  exemptions are not given more than 32 lakh people would be left with no means of transport. So, as of now, the government has decided not to implement it from Monday which is 13 November

#Weather Forecast For Nov 12: #TamilNadu #AndhraPradesh to brace for #Rains #Pollution to reduce over #Delhi #Chennairains #AirPollution pic.twitter.com/UNEz4KDyqH

— Skymet (@SkymetWeather) November 11, 2017

NGT’s displeasure against Delhi govt ‘justified’: Congress’ Ajay Maken 

Delhi Govt was ill prepared to launch Odd-Even scheme-

1)Total buses down from 5500 to 3900
2)Passenger carrying capacity down from 47lakhs to 26 lakhs
3)Metro Fare doubled in a year
4)No concrete measure to tackle Air Pollution

NGT displeasure against Delhi Govt is justified😡 pic.twitter.com/vLDGc8RKGe

— Ajay Maken (@ajaymaken) November 11, 2017

Swaraj India spokesperson accuses AAP govt of not taking long-term measures

Strong implementation and regulatory measures are required to end the calamity

Unless strong measures are not taken, doctors warn that India will witness a rising graph of respiratory, heat, cancer and other diseases. Already, neurological disorders have shown a sharp spike in the NCR from early October this year. We have crossed the tipping point in terms of air pollution. Drastic measures need to be implemented to prevent us from facing a health calamity of tremendous proportions.

Read full article here.

Varanasi is the most polluted city right now

According to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), cities across North India continue to be ‘severe’ on air quality index. According to the pollution control board, Varanasi is top of the list at 491. Haryana’s Gurugram comes second at 480, Delhi is at the third position at 468, while Uttar Pradesh’s Lucknow and Kanpur are at 462 and 461 respectively.

Delhi’s Rajpath engulfed with smog

Layer of smog seen at #Delhi's Rajpath. pic.twitter.com/XpYTTz8ImC

— ANI (@ANI) November 11, 2017

Light rains expected in Delhi, may clear smog: MeT office

The weather office had predicting light rainfall later in the day, which may clear the smog enveloping the national capital.

According to the MeT department, humidity levels in the national capital shot up to 91 percent this morning.

“The minimum temperature was recorded at 12.6 degrees Celsius, a notch below normal,” an official of the department said. Visibility was recorded at 800 metres at 5.30 am, which dropped further to 500 metres by 8.30 am.

PTI

. ​

Odd-even policy may be delayed by one day

Delhi government would drop the implementation of odd-even policy for one day. The government was about to implement the scheme from 13 November. However, NGT ordered the government to implement odd even without any exemption except those provided to health emergency. After the order, the Delhi government decided not to start implementation of odd even from 13 November.

Arunodoy Prakash, media advisor of Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodiya, said that the Delhi Government would approach NGT on Monday with a review petition. He also said that more than 32 lakh people would be left with no means of transport if exemptions are not given.

Congress hits back at AAP government 

Congress spokesperson Tom Vadakkan slammed the AAP government for calling off the odd-even scheme. " AAP had implemented the programme without looking at cost-benefit factor. Now after the NGT has given this verdict, they realise the riders that they cannot tackle the problem and are withdrawing it now. 

On asked about what can happen on Monday, Vaddakan said, “Monday is yet another day but if pollution reduces then there is no relevance of the odd-even policy. The Delhi government as well as the state government need to agree on alternative mode of transport.”

Delhi government committed to women’s safety, says Saurabh Bharadwaj

Delhi Govt cannot risk safety of women in Odd-Even. Will not implement Odd-Even without exemptions to Women.

— Saurabh Bharadwaj (@Saurabh_MLAgk) November 11, 2017

Odd Even was not to satisfy anybody's ego.Women being vulnerable cannot be exposed to risks.Delhi Govt Committed to safety and security.

— Saurabh Bharadwaj (@Saurabh_MLAgk) November 11, 2017

Situation improving, no need to panic, says Harsh Vardhan

“The situation in the capital is improving. I appeal to Delhi residents to not panic. Dust is not entering from other states and stubble burning has also come to an end. We have taken all people concerned on board, which includes chief ministers of neighbouring states. We (the Centre) can only help, Delhi government has to implement the reforms on the ground. I do not think that the odd-even plan is necessary. There are basic things in the Graded Rapid Action Plan (GRAP) that should be implemented first,” CNN News18 quoted Union Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan as saying.

Women’s safety paramount: Gahlot

While explaining the reasons behind the AAP government’s decision to call off odd-even plan, Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot said,“Pollution levels going down are important but women’s safety is paramount.”

AAP government to challenge NGT order, file review petition 

In light of the the two conditions by NGT on 2 wheelers & women, at the moment we are calling it off. We will go back to NGT on Monday, file a review petition for them to reconsider their decision regarding the two: Kailash Gehlot, Delhi Delhi Transport Minister #OddEven pic.twitter.com/DIPYSyV08f

— ANI (@ANI) November 11, 2017

Delhi transport minister claims burden on public transport

“If 30 lakh two-wheelers are off the road, Delhi’s public transport system cannot accommodate the surge,” claims Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot as he announces that the odd-even scheme has been called off.

Odd-even policy called off 

#OddEven has been called off for now: Kailash Gehlot, Delhi Transport Minister pic.twitter.com/2ZXzO0qHGZ

— ANI (@ANI) November 11, 2017

Meeting between Arvind Kejriwal and stakeholders begins

According to News18, after the meeting, Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot and Environment Minister Imran Hussain will address the press.

AAP government disapproves of not exempting women drivers

Sources in the Delhi government have told CNN-News18 that they do not approve of women drivers being included in the odd-even policy. “It is incomprehensible to compromise on women safety. Delhi government cannot compromise on women safety,” said the source.

United Airlines suspends flights to New Delhi

According to CNN, United Airlines has temporarily suspended flights to Delhi on Friday over air quality concerns in the capital city. “We are monitoring advisories as the region remains under a public health emergency, and are coordinating with respective government agencies,” CNN quoted a representative for the airline as saying.

Is there any merit in BJP opposing every move of AAP Government?, asks Saurabh Bharadwaj

Is there any merit in BJP opposing every move of AAP Government ? : @Saurabh_MLAgk pic.twitter.com/EjIE4eVDME

— AAP (@AamAadmiParty) November 11, 2017

Vijay Goel slams AAP govt’s odd-even scheme

कई घरों को निगलने के बाद आती है,
मदद भी शहर के जलने के बाद आती है। #OddEven #DelhiSmog #OddKejri_FailedAAP #AirPollution #WithdrawOddEven

— Vijay Goel (@VijayGoelBJP) November 11, 2017

Bengaluru to also follow odd-even if it proves to be a success in Delhi

Karanatak home minister Ram Ramalinga Reddy on Saturday said that the state will introduce the odd-even vehicle rationing scheme in Bengaluru if it proves to be a success in tackling air pollution in Delhi, reported Deccan Herald

Exemptions apply only to emergency services during odd-even

During odd-even the exemption will apply only to emergency services such as ambulance, police vehicles and fire trucks. CNG and hybrid vehicles will also be expected.

Imran Hussain, AAP government’s environment minister tweets

Delhi govt is in talks with Pawan Hans for aerial sprinkling of water over the city to bring down particulate matter@ArvindKejriwal @msisodia

— Imran Hussain (@ImranHussaain) November 10, 2017

AAP government seeks to arially sprinkle water to alleviate smog problem  

The Delhi government on Friday said that it was in talks with state-owned helicopter service company Pawan Hans to aerially sprinkle water over the city to settle pollutants.

This came in wake of National Green Tribunal’s (NGT) order on Thursday directing the government to track down all the hot spots with the PM10 more than 600 and spray water from helicopters or aircraft to tackle dust pollution across the city.

How many issued challan in UP?: NGT

According to ANI, the National Green Tribunal also asked the Uttar Pradesh Government over the number of violators, who were issued challan in Noida and Greater Noida.

Arvind Kejriwal’s emergency meeting at 3 pm

After NGT’s order urged the AAP government to rework the odd-even scheme, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal has called for an emergency meeting at his residence at 3 pm on Saturday, CNN News18 reported. He is ecpected to meet all stakeholders in the issue in order to take the next step.

Two-wheeler vehicles pollute more than four-wheelers, observes NGT 

CPCB and DPCC submitted that two wheelers are more polluting than four wheelers, and their emissions comprise 20% of the total vehicular pollution. NGT observed that water sprinkling is a better way to control pollution.

— ANI (@ANI) November 11, 2017

Not just AAP government, NGT also slams NHAI, NBCC

The bench also issued notices to the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) and the National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC) to show cause why exemplary cost should not be imposed on them for violation of its order putting a ban on construction activities.

Recap: What’s the odd-even scheme?

The car-rationing scheme, which was enforced twice in the national capital in 2016, will be in place between 13 and 17 November from 8 am to 8 pm. Under the policy, private vehicles are allowed to run based on the last number of their licence plates. Odd-numbered cars are allowed to run on odd dates while even-numbered cars can only run on even dates.

A Delhi resident’s view on women not being exempted from odd-even rules

Yes, there will be problem. But considering the levels of air pollution, the scheme should apply to all, be it men or women: Delhi resident on women not exempted in #OddEven pic.twitter.com/093AmO24Bj

— ANI (@ANI) November 11, 2017

Next NGT hearing on 14 November

The tribunal is hearing a plea for immediate action against the worsening air quality in Delhi-NCR, stating that it was an “environmental emergency” which was affecting children and senior citizens the most.

Even VVIP vehicles not exempted from NGT ruling

There is no exemption at all, #OddEven will be implemented even on VIPs, only emergency vehicles will be exempted: Rajiv Bansal, Counselor for DDA

— ANI (@ANI) November 11, 2017

Odd-even plan set to be automatic rule in Delhi

Highlight of the order is that #OddEven will be implemented automatically if PM 10 level goes above 500 & PM 2.5 level goes above 300, which will be monitored for 48 hours: Rajiv Bansal, Counselor for DDA pic.twitter.com/Mrss72Vh29

— ANI (@ANI) November 11, 2017

NGT wants odd-even to go beyond five days 

“Implement odd-even scheme when PM10 level is above 500 micrograms per cubic metre and PM2.5 above 300 µg/m3,” NGT asks the AAP government.

NGT urges AAP government to reconsider parking rules

National Green Tribunal said that the measures like enhanced parking fees, as suggested by EPCA, to decrease pollution are absurd. The panel also asked AAP to reconsider the decision. 

PTI

NGT also slams AAP government for logic behind the rule

The National Green Tribunal also asked AAP government if odd-even car rationing scheme is being implemented with consent of both L-G and Delhi government. The tribunal also asked why didn’t the Delhi government introduce odd-even scheme earlier when air quality was worse. 

PTI

NGT approves AAP government’s odd-even scheme 

Delhi government is free to implement odd-even car rationing scheme but they are subject to conditions, says NGT. The green tribunal added that no exemption should be given to anyone, including two-wheeler riders, in odd-even scheme.

However, CNG vehicles, emergency services such as ambulance and fire are exempted from odd-even scheme, they added. 

PTI

Updates for 11 November 2017 begin

Sheila Dikshit slams Delhi govt, says odd-even rule is not a solution 

Former Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit slammed the Arvind Kejriwal-led Delhi government, saying that the odd-even rule was not a solution. “I don’t think there is any planning at all in this past one year. Even the last time when they implemented the odd-even rule, it was not effective at all,” she said, as reported by News18.

NGT questions why two-wheelers and women are exempt from odd-even rule

The National Green Tribunal questioned the justification of exempting two-wheelers and women drivers during the odd-even scheme despite knowing that two-wheelers caused 46 percent pollution, as per an IIT Kanpur report.

Veerappa Moily calls for Centre-state dialogue on Delhi air pollution

Senior Congress leader M Veerappa Moily termed the alarming rise in air pollution as a fallout of “financial and administrative problems”. “It can be tackled if they put their mind on it, instead of getting into the blame game,” the former Karnataka Chief Minister told PTI.

The accumulation of waste and its disposal by burning is the main reason for the poor air quality, Moily said adding that “lot of funds” need to be allocated to address the issue by giving it “highest priority”.

“Mere rhetoric and sloganeering is not going to serve the purpose,” he added.

The former Union Environment Minister said the main responsibility to address the issue lies with the Delhi government. “They need to do it. The Centre is also part of it, (but) there is no eye-to-eye meeting between the central and the state government,” he said. —PTI

Pollution kills more people than HIV-AIDS, TB and malaria put together; Better urban planning needed to combat pollution: George Institute for Global Health 

Reducing transport activities, improving technologies and relocating traffic sources from crowded areas are some of the measures for better urban planning that can help Delhi combat rising air pollution, a leading health and medical research institute said on Friday.

As residents in Delhi and its suburbs continue to suffer from worsening air quality, The George Institute for Global Health in a statement said air pollution has become “one of the major public health problems in India, especially in the northern regions”. 

It said “sustainable public health solutions” were needed, describing pollution as the “largest risk factor for death”. “In fact, pollution kills more people than HIV-AIDS, TB and malaria put together. In economic terms, the global cost of pollution in terms of hours not worked, premature deaths, health spending and eroded quality of life has been estimated at Rs 26,760 crore a year,” said the statement by The George Institute India Executive Director Professor Vivekanand Jha. —IANS

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee says accusing Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal is not a solution, Delhi air pollution is a national problem

Global warming is a problem. Delhi pollution a disaster. Instead of blaming each other, I suggest Centre sits with CMs of neighbouring states – Punjab, Haryana Delhi - to solve problem. Only to accuse Delhi CM is not solution. It's national problem & we need to find a solution

— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) November 10, 2017

Union minister Vijay Goel addresses media on odd-even plan

Press Conference on #OddEven #DelhiSmog https://t.co/eiIaEPyHoW

— Vijay Goel (@VijayGoelBJP) November 10, 2017

High pollution in Delhi-NCR region may dent its tourism prospects, reports Assocham

The alarming level of pollution in Delhi-NCR may hit tourism in the region as November and December are the peak months for foreign travellers to visit India and majority of them opt for the Golden Triangle tourist circuit — Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, Assocham said on Friday.

The industry chamber interacted with 350 tour operators and based its findings on their feedback. “Even domestic tourists are avoiding Delhi. In comparison, international tourists are more sensitive about green tourism,” said the industry body.

“Along with tourism, transportation linked to the sector would also take a hit if investment and tourists traffic gets a setback. The transportation is one of the key contributors to the national economy in the services sector. Transportation and tourism are highly employment-oriented and jobs may be a casualty of the pollution,” said Assocham. —PTI