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Delhi Traffic Chaos: Anti-Pollution Rules Snarl Borders
1 Nov
Summary
- New Delhi's anti-pollution measures caused significant traffic jams at city borders.
- Air quality worsened to 'poor' category, highest in 198 days.
- Restrictions include vehicle checks, reduced office attendance, and construction bans.
Delhi's borders experienced heavy traffic snarls on Sunday, the first day of new anti-air pollution restrictions. Congestion was particularly bad at the Delhi-Gurugram and Delhi-Noida entry points as authorities checked vehicles for emission compliance. This occurred as the city's Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 261, the worst reading of the season and the highest in 198 days, with many areas falling into the 'very poor' or 'poor' categories.
These winter pollution control measures, in effect from November 1 to February 28, target vehicular emissions and dust. They include restrictions on older vehicles, a ban on outdoor construction, doubled parking fees, and a 50% cap on office attendance. Enforcement involves round-the-clock checks using ANPR cameras and approximately 250 enforcement personnel at key entry points and toll plazas.
Commuters reacted online with frustration, questioning the effectiveness of the restrictions and the resulting traffic jams. The measures also prohibit dust-generating demolition and construction from November 1 to January 31, with further bans from December 10 to January 20, except for essential projects.
Transport emissions were identified as a significant contributor to Delhi's pollution. Stubble burning also played a role, contributing up to 18.5%. The Air Quality Early Warning System forecasts that Delhi's air quality will likely remain in the poor to very poor category through early November and into the following weeks.
