Construction, demolition activities halted in Delhi-NCR from Nov 5 to 20 to curb air pollution

In an effort to curb air pollution in Delhi-NCR, construction and demolition activities were halted from November 5 to 20, according to a government announcement. The state government and private offices were directed to operate with up to 50% of staff physically present, while the rest would work from home. Historical data shows pollution peaks in mid-November, with Air Quality Index (AQI) levels reaching Severe and Severe+ categories on certain days.

However, construction activities for railways, metro services, airports, inter-state bus terminals, hospitals, water supply and sanitation, national security and defence-related projects, and 'projects of national importance' were exempt from the pollution control measures. Delhi's air quality improved briefly on Friday due to overnight rainfall, but forecast models predict a decline from November 1, with the AQI expected to remain in the moderate category until October 31 before worsening to the poor category from November 1.

Additionally, the Delhi Traffic Police announced fresh vehicle restrictions under the Revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), allowing only BS-VI emission standard vehicles, CNG, and electric vehicles to enter the national capital.