Delhi gov't rolls out measures to tackle recurring winter air pollution

NEW DELHI, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The local government in Delhi, India's capital territory, on Monday announced a slew of measures to curb air pollution, which typically worsens in the winter from November to February.

A pedestrian walks near the India Gate amid thick smog in New Delhi, India, Nov. 3, 2022. (File photo: Xinhua)

The measures include higher parking charges, a ban on construction and demolition work, staggered office timings, and a 50-percent cut in on-site staffing at government and private offices, with essential services exempted.

The steps will be introduced in phases from Nov. 1, with some curbs continuing until February 2027.

The measures to control air pollution well in advance are aimed at limiting pollution sources and reducing vehicular movement in the national capital during the months when air quality typically deteriorates sharply.

Delhi, home to over 30 million people, is among the most polluted cities in the world.

Industrial emissions and vehicular traffic are major sources of air pollution, alongside rampant construction activity. Poor wind speed and stubble burning, or farm fires, in neighbouring states also contribute to the decline in air quality.

For years, Delhi's air quality turns hazardous as winter approaches.