- By Imran Zafar
- Wed, 01 Nov 2023 10:15 PM (IST)
- Source:IANS
Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai on Wednesday said that all construction work within a one-kilometre area of the pollution hotspots can be directed to be stopped if the Air Quality Index (AQI) levels remain above 400 for the next week. He also instructed the officials to intensify water spraying, use anti-smog guns and hire private ‘Paryavaran Bus’ to reduce congestion and emissions, IANS reported.
Goapl Rai held a review meeting with the concerned departments in view of the rising pollution levels in the national capital, which is around 350 due to the onset of winter and low wind speed. He said that the next 15-20 days are going to be crucial for Delhi.
"According to scientists, the temperature is decreasing rapidly and the wind speed is also very low. The next 15-20 days are going to be crucial for Delhi. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has given instructions to implement GRAP-2, which has been implemented in Delhi,” Rai said.
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The minister said that the DTC has started 128 shuttle bus services on the congested routes and the Metro authorities have increased the frequency by 40 trips.
“Delhi Metro has been asked to increase the frequency further. Also, the DTC has been instructed to hire 1,000 CNG 'Paryavaran Bus' by November 10. The authorities responsible for water sprinkling have been instructed to mix dust suppressants and spray them not only on the hotspots but also at other places." the minister said as quoted by news agency IANS.