New Delhi’s Air Quality Index was ‘very poor’ on Oct. 24, with many areas registering a reading of over 300. The 24-hour average on Sunday was 313.
Weather officials said Delhi’s AQI would remain ‘very poor’ in the coming days as the temperature drops and stubble burning continues.
Delhi government invoked stage 2 of its Graded Response Action Plan, which is an emergency measure that kicks in to mitigate air pollution.
The plan encourages use of public transport. It also recommends limiting construction activities and avoiding open burning of solid waste.
Authorities also launched ‘Red Light On, Gaadi Off’ campaign. It aims to persuade drivers to switch off their vehicles at traffic stops.
Delhi government announced a blanket ban on firecrackers in the capital in September. The ban will be effective in the Dussehra-Diwali holiday season.