AAP unveils comprehensive anti-open burning campaign

AS PART OF WINTER ACTION PLAN

- AIMAN FATIMA

NEW DELHI: The Delhi government has launched a major anti-pollution initiative as part of its Winter Action Plan to curb the escalating pollution levels in the city. With air quality index (AQI) levels in Delhi and neighbouring regions consistently hovering between 300 and 400, Environment minister Gopal Rai announced that a comprehensive anti-open burning campaign would run until December 6, 2024. This move comes in response to the severe air quality deterioration following Diwali and the approaching winter season.

Minister Gopal Rai chaired a review meeting at the Delhi Secretariat, where he discussed the progress of the Winter Action Plan with officials from various departments. He emphasised that the next few weeks are critical for controlling the city's pollution levels, especially as weather forecasts predict lower temperatures and reduced wind speeds, which can further trap pollutants. "Since Diwali, AQI levels in Delhi and neighbouring states have been alarmingly high, and the next ten days are expected to bring adverse weather conditions. In light of this, we've met with officials from 33 departments to strategise on how to implement the Winter Action Plan more effectively," said Rai, underlining the urgency of coordinated action.