New Delhi [India], October 15 (ANI): As winter approaches and air quality concerns mount in the national capital, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi convened a high-level meeting with key officials at the Delhi Secretariat to discuss the alarming pollution situation.
Environment Minister Gopal Rai was also present in the meeting along with other AAP leaders.
During the meeting, officials reviewed current pollution levels and strategized on immediate actions.
The Delhi Chief Minister gave all instructions to ensure that all necessary steps are taken to control pollution in Delhi this winter. She also appealed to the people of Delhi to support the government in this campaign to reduce pollution.
Earlier today, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced that Stage-I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has been implemented in Delhi-NCR to tackle rising air pollution.
The decision was made after the Air Quality Index (AQI) of the national capital crossed 200.
"When AQI rises above 200, GRAP Stage-I is implemented. Under this, mainly dust mitigation measures are taken. We have given orders to monitor the burning of garbage. Pollution Under Control certification issued to vehicles is being checked," Gopal Rai said. He also emphasised the need for cooperation from neighbouring states.
"There are BJP-ruled states neighbouring Delhi. Earlier, every year the BJP's Central government used to conduct a joint meeting but this meeting has not been conducted lately. This problem (air pollution) pertains to the entire north India," the AAP Minister told ANI.
He outlined specific measures that are now in force: "Mechanical sweeping and water sprinkling should be carried out on roads, and anti-smog guns should be used at major intersections. The burning of waste is prohibited. Traffic jams must be controlled, and vehicles older than 10 years (diesel) and 15 years (petrol) are banned."
In response to increasing pollution levels in Delhi during the winter season, the Environment Minister announced the escalation of an anti-dust campaign across the city. "In Delhi, during the winter season, when the air becomes still, it stops raining, and the temperature drops, pollution levels rise," he explained.
The campaign began on October 7, and since then, surprise inspections have revealed that many construction sites are not following regulations, leading to dust pollution.
The minister also addressed concerns about the recent decline in air quality. "The weather department's forecast suggests that temperatures will rapidly drop now. As the cold increases, the pollution particles in the atmosphere will settle lower," Rai said.
He then emphasised that to combat pollution, the government must focus on reducing pollution sources, including dust, vehicle emissions, and biomass burning."There is certainly one weapon: we need to reduce the sources. To this end, the government is advancing with 11 measures, and as needed, in emergency situations, the government will also move towards emergency measures," Rai said. (ANI)
You may also like
Startling report says Israeli forces used Palestinian detainees as human shields in booby-traps
How US picks its president: Decoding the election process
Alex Salmond died 'trying to open a bottle of ketchup' in front of horrified witnesses
Vastu Tips- Do not buy a broom on this day even by mistake, financial crisis will trouble you
Major blow for Donald Trump as losses at his Scottish golf course hit £14million
'Game changer' menopause supplement 'improves sleep' and leaves hair and nails 'stronger'
The stunning Greek city that's still 23C in October and as pretty as Crete or Corfu
Liverpool transfer target on Arsenal and PSG's radar as $33m move predicted
Sports News- These Indian bowlers do not give runs to the batsmen, the batsman has to crave for runs, know about them
Tiger Woods provides rare injury update after sad moment at Pebble Beach
Onions stay crisp and fresh for 'up to six months' when stored in ideal spot
Nazara Bags Shareholders' Nod To Fetch 48% Stake In Pokerbaazi's Parent
'Beautiful' £31 heated blanket helping shoppers 'save a fortune on heating bills'
Prince Louis's royal buddy who hilariously slapped down his bid to share her snacks
Paul Mescal reveals 'intense on-set fight' with Gladiator II director Ridley Scott
ITV Coronation Street icon to 'exit soap' after 26 years as new job 'already lined up'
RAC warns learner drivers to beware of booking 'rip off' black market driving tests
"We can create next-gen innovative products", says Boeing India President Salil Gupte as he urges cos to embrace quality
'Fake': Smriti Irani Shuts Down Rumours Of TV Comeback With Rupali Ganguly's Anupamaa After 15-Year Hiatus
BEML gets contract to make India's first high-speed train running at 280 kmph