New Delhi: Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal presided over a high-level meeting on Monday to address growing concerns regarding air pollution in Delhi and its adjacent areas. Following the meeting, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced that the odd-even scheme will be enforced in the city for one week from November 13.

Rai stated, "In view of air pollution, the Odd-Even vehicle system will be applicable for one week from 13th to 20th November..." He added that the weather forecast indicates wind speeds of 12 km/hour from Tuesday onwards, which may potentially lead to a reduction in pollution levels.

He explained, "As per the forecast, the wind speed will be 12 km/hour tomorrow, 7th November, and if the speed reaches 10 to 12 km/hour, then there is a possibility that the level of pollution accumulated here might disperse. Similarly, the wind speed will be 8-10 km/hour on 8th November. It is expected that the speed of wind will increase on 7th and 8th November, which will reduce the level of pollution..."

Rai also mentioned that restrictions on the entry of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles would continue under GRAP-4, with exceptions for LNG, CNG, and electric trucks used for essential commodities and services. Furthermore, the ban on the demolition work of flyovers, overbridges, and power transmission pipelines has been extended.

Regarding schools, Rai informed that physical classes, except for those of classes 10 and 12, would remain suspended until November 10. However, a decision on implementing a work-from-home order for 50% of government and private office staff in Delhi would be determined later.

Delhi has been grappling with hazardous levels of pollution, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) fluctuating between 'Very Poor' and 'Severe Plus' as the Centre's GRAP-IV measures have been initiated to combat air pollution in the city. On Monday, Delhi's AQI was recorded at 411.

Several areas in Delhi reported AQI levels worse than the city's average, including Bawana with an AQI of 478, Jahangirpuri at 475, and Wazirpur at 482, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) decided to implement Stage IV of the GRAP across the entire National Capital Region (NCR) with immediate effect on Sunday. This includes all actions under Stages I, II, and III to prevent further deterioration of air quality in the region. These measures are activated at least three days before the Air Quality Index (AQI) surpasses the 450 mark in the national capital.

Border Roads Personnel Make History: First Vehicles Reach Amarnath Cave

Supreme Court Rejects PFI's Plea Against Ban and UAPA Designation

Kedarnath Pilgrimage: Rahul Gandhi's Tea Service Delights Devotees