Delhi’s air quality deteriorated further on Friday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) rising from 233 to 240, marking the third consecutive day of ‘poor’ air quality, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
The air quality in the surrounding areas also worsened, with Faridabad’s AQI rising from 112 to 158, Gurugram from 141 to 150, Ghaziabad from 161 to 165, Greater Noida from 141 to 148, and Noida from 142 to 145. Across most parts of Delhi, AQI levels hovered between 200 and 300, reflecting moderate to poor air quality as the city braces for the winter pollution season.
The Supreme Court recently allowed the sale and bursting of eco-friendly firecrackers during Diwali, even as pollution levels remain a cause for concern.
To tackle seasonal pollution spikes, the Delhi government has launched its Winter Action Plan for 2025–26. Announced by Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa, the plan outlines 25 measures across seven key areas, including control of road dust, vehicular and industrial emissions, open burning, solid waste management, citizen engagement, monitoring, and promotion of green innovation.
Sirsa said the plan would be implemented in coordination with more than 30 government departments and agencies, including the PWD, MCD, NDMC, DSIIDC, DPCC, Transport Department, and Delhi Police, with real-time monitoring through the Green War Room.
“Compliance will be non-negotiable this winter,” Sirsa said, adding that enforcement of construction norms, dust control measures, and use of PNG in industries would be strengthened. He urged residents to follow GRAP advisories, use the Green Delhi App, and prefer public transport and electric vehicles.
Under the plan, 86 mechanical road sweepers, 300 water sprinklers, and 362 anti-smog guns have been deployed across the city. An additional 70 sweepers and related dust-control equipment are being procured. Major roads under the PWD, MCD, NDMC, and DSIIDC will be vacuum-swept more frequently, while construction sites must follow strict 14-point dust control norms.
(With agency input)