Delhi Braces For Restrictions Amid Swirling Smog

New Delhi, Nov 18 (ANI): Millions of commuters faced a chaotic ride at Delhi's railway station on Monday morning as the city grappled with deteriorating air quality and dense smog. The deteriorating conditions prompted authorities to activate the stage IV of the revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which has come into effect starting today in the National Capital Region (NCR).

The drastic measure includes restricting entry for truck traffic into Delhi, permitting only trucks carrying essential commodities or providing vital services to pass through. Moreover, construction and demolition activities have been banned, with the aim of reducing emissions that fuel the noxious haze.

As a result, commuters reported delayed trains and packed platforms at various railway stations across the city. With the air quality in Delhi nearing alarming levels, residents were advised to adhere to safety guidelines such as wearing masks and staying indoors during peak pollution hours.

The government's move reflects its deep concern over the unseasonal spurt of smog that has gripped the nation's capital for the past few days, leaving residents gasping for clean air. The National Ambient Air Quality Monitoring System reported alarming levels of particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), placing Delhi under Stage IV alert.

With restrictions in place to combat the choking shroud of smog, residents are bracing themselves for another grueling week ahead, hoping that the government's efforts will soon lead to a relief from these hazardous conditions.