Under the influence of Western Disturbance, Delhi NCR received good rainfall since early morning on Friday, bringing much needed respite from severe air pollution that has been enveloping the city for a few weeks now.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast intermittent rain over the city and adjoining areas until early noon on Friday. Light showers are also expected in Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) has improved in the Capital aided by rains and winds.
The State Government has been mulling steps to improve the air quality. Currently, Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has been implemented in the national capital after the city’s air quality plummeted to the ‘severe plus’ category.
The Government has decided to reintroduce the odd-even rule from November 13 to 20 given the concerns of deterioration in air quality.
Delhi Environment, Forest and Wildlife Minister Gopal Rai told the media after a high-level meeting that the decision will be implemented a day after Diwali.
The Delhi government announced an early winter amid worsening air pollution. The schools will remain closed till November 18.
