Delhi's toxic winter air is back - is the Indian capital prepared for pollution?
Summary
Delhi is entering its winter pollution season, as cooler temperatures and slower winds trap emissions from vehicles, factories, construction and crop burning. The city’s winter action plan began on 1 November, but experts say its impact will depend on enforcement and that longer-term measures are also needed.Key Facts
- Delhi’s winter action plan runs from 1 November to 28 February.
- The plan restricts entry for older, more polluting vehicles registered outside Delhi and denies fuel to vehicles without a certificate showing they meet emissions standards.
- The government has temporarily banned demolitions and outdoor construction work that generate dust.
- The government has asked offices to let half their employees work from home, staggered office timings for its own staff, and doubled parking charges.
- The plan also includes steps to strengthen pollution monitoring and enforcement and promote public transport and electric vehicles.
- A separate federal plan, known as the Graded Response Action Plan, imposes restrictions in stages as pollution rises; its second stage is currently in force.
- Stage two restrictions include limits on diesel generators and on burning coal and firewood.
- Environmental Defense Fund adviser Parthaa Bosu said planning has improved, but execution remains a concern.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
