Odd-Even In Delhi From November 13-20 As Pollution Peaks, Classes Except 10, 12 Shut Until Friday

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal called a high-level meeting on Monday to address mounting concerns about escalating air pollution in the city and its neighboring areas. Following the meeting, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced that the odd-even vehicle rationing scheme would be enforced in the city for a duration of one week, commencing on November 13.

"In view of air pollution, the Odd-Even vehicle system will be applicable for one week from 13th to 20th November..." Rai stated after the meeting.

The capital has been grappling with hazardous levels of pollution, as the Air Quality Index (AQI) fluctuates between 'Very Poor' and 'Severe Plus.' These conditions prompted the activation of the Centre's Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-IV), which includes measures aimed at mitigating air pollution in the city. As of Monday, Delhi's AQI stood at 411.

Several areas within Delhi recorded AQI readings worse than the city's average. Bawana registered an AQI of 478, while Jahangirpuri reported an AQI of 475, and Wazirpur's air quality index reached 482, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

On Sunday, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) decided to implement Stage IV of the GRAP throughout the entire National Capital Region (NCR) with immediate effect. This involves all actions under Stage I, II, and III, in addition to specific measures to prevent further deterioration of air quality in the region. These measures are executed during the final stage of the pollution control plan and are initiated at least three days before the Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeds the 450 mark in the national capital.