Delhi to have 106 additional buses, 60 extra trips by metro trains to combat air pollution

Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced on Friday that 106 additional cluster buses will operate in the city, and metro trains will make 60 extra trips in response to the GRAP-3 measures implemented to combat deteriorating air quality.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) imposed the GRAP-3 measures after the national capital reported the highest pollution levels in the country, with the air quality remaining in the “severe” category for two consecutive days. On Friday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 411, still within the severe category.

During a press conference, Rai stated that interstate buses, excluding e-buses and CNG vehicles, have been banned. Additionally, BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers are no longer permitted to operate in the city.

To encourage public transport use and minimise reliance on private vehicles, the Delhi Transport Corporation will deploy 106 extra cluster buses, and metro services will add 60 trips. Rai also mentioned that emergency measures, including artificial rain, would be considered if the air quality worsens further, and he plans to raise the matter with the Centre again.

Private construction and demolition activities have been prohibited under GRAP-3 guidelines. Rai emphasised the government’s efforts to enhance the implementation of these measures, urging residents to travel short distances by bicycle, use public transport, carpool, or work from home where possible.

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An inter-departmental meeting was held on Friday with officials from the MCD, PWD, Irrigation and Flood Control Department, Transport, DTC, Metro, Education, and other relevant departments to strengthen the winter action plan, he added.

(With inputs from PTI)