THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK
New Delhi, Nov 6: In response to issues about the declining quality of the air, the Delhi government decided on Monday to reinstate the odd-even vehicle rule from November 13 to November 20.
Following a high-level meeting, Delhi Environment, Forest, and Wildlife Minister Gopal Rai informed the media that the decision will take effect one day after Diwali, which is on November 12, and will last for a week.
He mentioned that a decision regarding the potential extension of the odd-even rule would be made at a later time.
“In view of air pollution, the odd-even vehicle system will be applicable for one week from 13th to 20th November…,” Gopal Rai said.
He stated that there’s a likelihood that on November 7, 8, the wind speed will increase up, which should lower the pollution levels.
“As per the forecast, the wind speed will be 12km/hour tomorrow, 7th November and if the speed reaches 10 to 12 km/hour, then there is a possibility that the level of pollution accumulated here might disperse. Similarly, the wind speed will be 8-10 km/hour on 8th November. It is expected that the speed of wind will increase on November 7 and 8 November which will reduce the level of pollution…,” he said.
He added that all schools, with the exception of 10 and 12, will be closed till November 10. Prior to this, primary classes were ordered to remain closed until November 10th, although classes from 6 to 12 were “given the option” of going online.
The Delhi government’s odd-even system is a form of traffic constraints in which cars with odd-digit registration numbers are permitted on odd-numbered days and even-digit registration numbers on even-numbered dates.
The System of Air Quality Forecasting and Research (SAFAR-India) reported that the National Capital’s air quality was 488 today, up from 410 the previous day.
In order to stop the further deterioration of the air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) decided on Sunday to implement Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) throughout the whole National Capital Region (NCR) with immediate effect. In addition to the limitations imposed by Stages I through III, Stage IV will be enforced, according to the Air Quality Commission. The Air Quality Commission stated that Stage IV will be implemented in addition to the limitations set forth in Stages I to III.
As outlined in the 8-point action plan, there will be restrictions on the entry of truck traffic into Delhi, with exceptions granted for trucks transporting essential goods or providing essential services, as well as LNG, CNG, and electric trucks. Additionally, the use of diesel-powered medium- and heavy-goods vehicles (MGVs) and trucks registered in Delhi would be prohibited, with the exception of those transporting necessities or offering necessary services. GRAP Stage-IV measures encompass the NCR region, and the Delhi government might opt to suspend in-person classes for students in grades VI-IX and class XI, shifting to online classes.
