As Delhi’s air quality worsens, LG bans construction work till Sunday

In order to control dust, the water will also be sprayed on roads.

PTI Photo/ File

New Delhi: The air quality in Delhi remained beyond the "severe" level for the third day on Thursday. The LG of Delhi Anil Baijal on Thursday conducted a high-level meeting on the deteriorating air quality of Delhi. At the meeting, it was decided that no construction work will be done till Sunday in the national capital. In order to control dust, the water will also be sprayed on roads. It is said that the air quality deteriorated because of dust storms in western India, particularly Rajasthan, which increased coarser particles in the air. On Thursday authorities warned the dusty conditions are likely to prevail for another 3-4 days and advised people to avoid staying outdoors for long hours. The PM10 level (presence of particles with diameter less than 10mm) was beyond severe at 796 in Delhi-NCR and 830 in Delhi particularly, leading to hazy conditions. The wind blowing in the region has contributed to the spread of dust particles. According to the Met department, wind speed reaching up to 35 kmph is predicted for today in Delhi. The dust-laden winds have created a haze in Delhi-NCR since yesterday. The Environment Ministry has said the dusty conditions are likely to prevail for the next three days. It has alerted construction agencies, municipal corporations and Delhi Pollution Control Committee to ensure water sprinkling.