Delhi

A recent survey reveals a concerning rise in respiratory illnesses among children in Delhi, with a significant increase in nebulizer purchases for young children. This highlights the urgent need for action to address air pollution as a critical health catastrophe.

Delhi's air quality deteriorated significantly on Saturday, with the overall AQI reaching 422 and falling into the 'Severe' category. 28 out of 39 monitoring stations recorded 'Severe' AQI levels, prompting work-from-home advisories and implementation of GRAP Stage 4 restrictions.

The Supreme Court of India has extended the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-4) in Delhi for three more days to combat severe air pollution. This decision follows a plea to improve the Air Quality Index and involves stricter measures at Delhi's entry points.

The Vande Bharat Express connecting Delhi and Kashmir will be launched soon. Notably, this train will pass through the Chenab Bridge, the world's highest railway bridge. Now, traveling to Kashmir won't require much time.

Due to severe air pollution in Delhi-NCR, the Delhi government has mandated 50% of its staff to work from home. This measure, part of GRAP Stage IV, aims to mitigate hazardous pollutants as the AQI surpasses 450 in several areas.

Delhi's pollution crisis is visible from space. The AQI has crossed 500, placing it among the world's most polluted cities. This alarming situation is exacerbated by stubble burning and winter weather conditions

Oil marketing companies (OMCs) publish daily petrol and diesel prices at 6 am, reflecting changes in global crude oil prices and foreign exchange rates. Check the latest fuel prices for major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Noida, Lucknow, and Bengaluru.

Delhi's AQI remains 'Severe' for the fifth consecutive day, with several areas recording alarmingly high pollution levels. Traffic police have intensified checks and issued substantial fines for vehicles lacking Pollution Under Control Certificates (PUCC) and violating GRAP restrictions.

The GRAP is a four-stage system for managing Delhi-NCR's air pollution. Stage I addresses "poor" air quality (AQI 201–300), Stage II covers "very poor" conditions (AQI 301–400), Stage III is activated for "severe" levels (AQI 401–450), and Stage IV is for "severe plus" (AQI above 450).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s return to Delhi was delayed after his aircraft encountered a technical issue at Deoghar Airport in Jharkhand. The delay follows his participation in rallies marking Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas. Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi’s helicopter faced a 45-minute delay in Godda due to air traffic issues.