Air quality in Delhi, India, has remained in the “severe” category despite mitigating efforts, thus the city’s environment minister said on Monday that vehicle use would be restricted for a week between November 13 and 20.
According to the regulation, vehicles with odd registration numbers would be allowed to operate on the road on odd dates, while vehicles with even registration numbers would be permitted to operate on even dates.
Prior to the advent of winter in November, when calm breezes and low temperatures trap pollution generated from various sources, New Delhi regularly ranks among the world’s top polluted cities.
Monday marked the third straight day of’severe’ air quality, according to the federal pollution control organization, and the municipal government responded by extending the suspension of primary schools until November 10.
“There is a possibility that air pollution will rise after the Diwali,” Gopal Rai, Delhi’s environment minister, said, referring to the Hindu festival on November 12. During this time, firecrackers are often set on fire despite being illegal, contributing to increased pollution levels.
Despite the smog, Monday’s cricket World Cup match between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh nevertheless took place in the city thanks to air filters in the players’ locker rooms and water sprinklers to dilute the air.
