Delhi Smog: EPCA instructs govt to start preparing for odd-even scheme

Deeply concerned over rising air pollution level in the national capital region, the Environment Pollution (Prevention & Control) Authority on Tuesday has instructed governments of Delhi and other bordering states to start preparing for measures like odd-even and ban on construction, if pollution aggravates.

EPCA also instructed Delhi Metro to lower fares during off-peak hours for at least 10 days and introduce more coaches to combat pollution menace in the region.

The EPCA also instructed stopping, entry of truck traffic into Delhi (except essential commodities).

Dense fog shrouded Delhi and adjoining areas on Tuesday as commuters faced low visibility issues. Winter is setting in Northern India and Delhi/NCR has also been hit by smog due to worsening air pollution.

Pollution control department officials have said the hazy condition was due to smog - a result of pollution as well as presence of dust in the air.
Officials from the regional pollution control board have claimed that stubble burning in states of Haryana and Punjab lead to smoggy weather conditions in the capital region.