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From Capital City To Gas Chamber: Delhi’s Air Crisis Reaches Breaking Point

Delhi is once again battling an air emergency, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) hitting a hazardous 500 in multiple areas. Residents of the capital are inhaling pollution levels equivalent to smoking 22 cigarettes daily, a stark contrast to cities like Bengaluru. Schools have gone online, heavy vehicles face restrictions, and odd-even traffic rules are being considered, but these measures have failed to significantly improve the toxic air. The Delhi government has sought the Centre’s approval for artificial rains, but no response has been received. Meanwhile, the political blame game continues, with AAP accusing BJP-ruled states of negligence and the BJP holding the Delhi government accountable. Experts remain skeptical about solutions like cloud seeding, citing its limitations and potential to worsen pollution. Environmentalist Sunita Narain has criticized reactive measures, urging long-term commitments to public transport and sustainable policies. With no immediate relief in sight, Delhi and other north Indian cities brace for more days of suffocating smog, leaving citizens to endure the worsening crisis.

World on the Brink: Plastic waste chokes environment, economy

A growing tide of plastic waste is threatening the Ruzizi dam in eastern Congo, leading to frequent power outages in several major cities. Local authorities are scrambling to address the issue, which highlights the devastating environmental consequences of plastic pollution. The environmental impacts of discarded plastics, littering, leaching of toxic components and the contamination of ecosystems and the food chain with micro plastics, are well established. Plastics just don’t go away Even after centuries, plastic waste remains, refusing to decompose. Its persistence harms marine life and ecosystems. The toxic chemicals leach into water sources and there are several human health risks from micro plastic consumption. The plastic waste disintegrates into microscopic pieces, contaminating the food chain and endangering humans and animals. Oceans and landscapes are congested with plastic, from the deepest sea beds to the highest mountains. Emissions from production, use, and disposal degrade the environment, accelerating climate change. Despite mounting evidence, plastic production is expected to rise, intensifying the crisis. Urgent action is necessary to mitigate the effects of plastic pollution. Busan conference Notably, soon after COP-29 in Baku, countries will meet in Busan, South Korea, to discuss another complicated environmental matter—plastic pollution. The fifth session of Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) on global negotiations for the Global Plastic Treaty (GPT) is scheduled from November 25 to December 1 with the aim to develop an “instrument” for a comprehensive approach to address the full-life cycle of plastic, including production, design and disposal, as per the UN Environment Programme. Global consumption of plastic is accelerating Plastic, a versatile material with a lifespan of hundreds of years, has multiple benefits and uses. However, its production, consumption, and disposal have severe environmental consequences, including water pollution, marine life deaths, and a significant carbon footprint due to fossil fuel dependence. According to European Environment Agency (EEA), the average annual plastic consumption in Western Europe is approximately 150 kg per person, exceeding the global average of 60 kg by more than twofold. Statista reports that the United States generates the most plastic waste per capita worldwide, with an average American producing 130.09 kg annually. In contrast, India’s per capita plastic waste generation stands at around 19.88 kg. As a relatively recent invention, plastic’s affordability and adaptability have made it ubiquitous in modern times. However, its lifecycle poses significant challenges. Alarmingly, only about 9 per cent of all plastic ever produced has been recycled, while 12 per cent has been incinerated. The remainder remains in use or has been disposed of in landfills or released into the environment, including oceans, as per EEA. INC — what has happened so far? In March 2022, the fifth session of the UN Environment Assembly adopted a landmark resolution to develop an internationally legally binding instrument addressing plastic pollution, including in marine environments. The resolution tasked the UNEP Executive Director with convening an INC to craft the instrument, adopting a comprehensive approach that encompasses the entire life cycle of plastic, from production and design to disposal. The INC initiated its work in the second half of 2022, aiming to conclude negotiations by the end of 2024. The first session of INC in Punta del Este, Uruguay (November 28 to December 2, 2022) was followed by a session in Paris, France from May 29 to June 2, 2023. The third session in Nairobi, Kenya, marked the midway point (November 13 to 19 November, 2023), which was followed by the fourth session (April 23 to 29, 2024) in Ottawa, Canada. Plastic industry Consensus on plastic pollution remains elusive, mirroring challenges in climate talks, due to economic, job, and development concerns. The High Ambition Coalition advocates drastic measures, including a 40 per cent production cut by 2040 and lifecycle interventions. In contrast, oil and petrochemical lobbies resist reductions, promoting recycling and waste management instead. Plastics, primarily made from fossil fuels like petroleum, natural gas, and coal, are at the centre of this debate. The Global Coalition for Plastic Sustainability, an alliance of plastic-producing countries, pushes for a waste management-focused approach. According to a Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) report, Iran’s announcement of Global Coalition for Plastic Sustainability faced opposition at the INC’s third session. The coalition’s status was downgraded to a “like-minded group”. However, Iran’s interventions on behalf of this group garnered support from Russia, India, Cuba, and Western Asian nations, including Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Iraq. This coalition advocates for a legally binding instrument prioritising waste management to minimise the impact on plastic-producing countries. Jobs and economy The plastic industry supports millions of workers worldwide, including in India, making it a significant sector of the global economy. Consequently, countries with substantial plastic industries favour waste management solutions over production caps or targets. “Production is a vital part of our economy,” argue plastic industry supporters. “The focus should be on finding the right balance, as the real challenge lies in disposing of and recycling waste.” They also highlight the environmental footprint of alternative materials, such as reusable paper and cotton bags, which come with their own carbon costs. While plastics are non-biodegradable, proponents point out that alternatives like paper and glass also have significant carbon footprints. India India, adhering to the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR) on climate issues, emphasises that any legally binding instrument should consider individual countries’ circumstances. Indian officials assert that solutions to pollution should not involve binding targets or production caps. India has implemented measures such as banning certain single-use plastics (SUPs) and introducing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). Additionally, the country is exploring alternative solutions. However, the effectiveness of these measures remains debatable. Despite a ban, SUPs – including plastic bags, cups, water bottles, and straws – continue to litter the environment. India generates 5.5 million tonnes of SUP waste annually, but only addresses around 11 per cent of it, according to environmental groups. In 2018, India announced plans to phase out SUPs by 2022. The Environment Ministry notified the Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2021, which took effect on July 1, 2022. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) also issued a Comprehensive Action Plan to State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and Pollution Control Committees (PCC).

Delhi’s question: To breathe or not to breathe amid escalating air pollution

It was a dreary day. Many people complained of a sharp and pungent smell in the air throughout the day. It was a day when Delhiites were compelled to breathe toxic air. Many of them complained that even short-term exposure to the air caused watery eyes and headaches. The AQI on Monday was 494 on a scale of 500 at 4pm, the worst reading this season and the second highest since AQI began to be recorded in 2015.According to the Central Pollution Control Board's bulletin, Monday's ‘severe plus' AQI was only lower than 497 logged on Nov 6, 2016, and identical to the reading of Nov 13, 2019. As Delhiites stayed indoors or wore masks to avoid inhaling toxins, Dr Arvind Kumar, chest surgeon and founder of Lung Care Foundation and Doctors for Clean Air and Climate Action, India, warned, "Polluted air is an invisible killer. With every breath we take, it quietly wreaks havoc on our health. From triggering asthma attacks in children to fuelling heart disease, lung cancer and cognitive decline, the impact of emissions transcends generations, leaving vulnerable communities to bear the brunt." Many described the day as "gloomy". With a grey haze hanging over the city, Delhi recorded poor visibility throughout the day. As the sun's rays were unable to penetrate the thick cover, the maximum temperature dropped to the season's lowest at 23.5 degrees Celsius, four below normal. It was also 3.7 degrees lower than Sunday's maximum. The minimum temperature stood at 16.2 degrees Celsius, four above normal. There will be no sunshiny days for some time with the air quality likely to remain above 400 till Nov 21. The Air Quality Early Warning System, the forecasting body under the Union ministry of earth sciences, has predicted that the air quality is likely to be ‘severe' till Nov 21. However, there was no clarity on whether AQI will be in the ‘severe plus' level (AQI above 450). CPCB's data shows that AQI, which was 441 at 4pm on Sunday, entered the ‘severe plus' category at 6pm with a reading of 452. It surged to 468 at 10pm on Sunday and continued its upward trend, logging 485 at 9am on Monday and 495 at 7pm. AQI at 15 of the city's 36 air monitoring stations maxed out at 500, with the others also touching the extreme end of the scale. Experts said a combination of factors — high local and regional pollution levels, harvest stubble fires, unfavourable meteorological conditions, including calm winds, dense fog, low temperature and inversion — caused AQI to spike. On Monday, Punjab reported 1,251 new farm fires, making it the season's highest tally in a single day. The count was 36 in Haryana, 133 in UP, 152 in Rajasthan and 639 in Madhya Pradesh. The contribution of stubble burning to Delhi's PM2.5 was 25.1% on Saturday, but data was unavailable for Sunday and Monday. Anumita Roychowdhury, executive director, research and advocacy, Centre for Science and Environment, said, "The current situation, which is at a risk of building up to a severe air episode, is a result of a combination of elevated local and regional pollution aggravated by adverse meteorological conditions. The pollutants are trapped. We need more reliable forecasting systems to enable preventive measures. Also, durable and sustained action will require much stronger attention." There was dense fog in the morning. Palam recorded the lowest visibility of 100-150 metres from 11pm on Sunday to 11am on Monday before improving to 900m at 5pm. Safdarjung, the city's base weather station, logged visibility of 150m on Monday morning. The best visibility of 200m was recorded at Safdarjung at 5pm. IMD has issued an ‘orange' alert (be prepared) for dense fog for Tuesday, with ‘yellow' (be aware) for Wednesday.

COP29 In Baku: Key Challenges And Climate Finance Stalemates

The 29th United Nations Climate Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, is halfway through, yet significant progress remains elusive, especially on the critical issue of climate finance. The annual gathering, intended to address global challenges related to climate change, has seen distractions overshadow decisions during its first week. As ministers and decision-makers prepare to take center stage in the coming days, the stakes are high for resolving funding disputes and laying the groundwork for actionable agreements. The Funding Gap: A Trillion-Dollar Divide A central theme of COP29 is the financial commitment required from developed nations to assist poorer countries in transitioning away from fossil fuels, adapting to climate impacts, and addressing the losses caused by extreme weather events. Developing nations have united behind a demand for $1.3 trillion annually—a figure they believe reflects the scale of the crisis. However, developed nations, led by countries like the United States and Canada, have yet to move beyond their long-standing commitment to a $100 billion annual climate fund, first pledged over a decade ago. “All the developing countries look very united behind $1.3 trillion. That’s not a ceiling. That’s what they want. That’s what they think they need,” said Debbie Hillier, policy lead at Mercy Corps. She added, “The U.S. and Canada are constantly talking about a floor of $100 billion... So you’ve got $100 billion at one end and $1.3 trillion on the other end.” Harjeet Singh, global engagement director for the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, expressed concern about the lack of transparency from wealthier nations. “The intention of developed countries to really come clean and show commitment is missing,” Singh said. “They have not uttered a single word on what the (final total) is going to be, which is very disturbing.” UN Climate Secretary Simon Stiell called for faster progress on the negotiations, emphasizing the urgency of the moment: “What’s at stake here in Baku is nothing less than the capacity to halve emissions this decade and protect lives and livelihoods from spiraling climate impacts.” How Climate Talks Work: The Role of Brinkmanship COP conferences are infamous for their last-minute deals, often reached through high-pressure negotiations. Experts explain that this approach is by design. “Member states have not moved, and parties have not moved as expeditiously as they need to do,” said Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme. “This is causing frustration. I understand that. So the answer is to push and push more and ensure that we land where we need to land.” Avinash Persaud, a climate adviser at the Inter-American Development Bank, described the process as one of brinkmanship. “COP works on brinkmanship,” Persaud explained. “COP works on the fear of us not reaching agreement in the end, which makes the process appear chaotic from the outside.” The presence of political leaders in the second week typically shifts the negotiations to a higher gear. Ministers attending COP29 will also need to coordinate with leaders at the G20 summit in Brazil. With the G20 nations responsible for 77% of global greenhouse gas emissions, their decisions will significantly influence the talks in Baku. The Role of the COP Presidency Leadership at COP conferences is crucial in bridging divides. This year’s COP president, Mukhtar Babayev, has adopted a softer, more conciliatory approach compared to his predecessors. While some see this as a positive change, others question whether his approach will yield the necessary results. “What I see with Mukhtar is that he uses a gentle presence, a degree of humility in his very presence,” said Andersen. Babayev himself struck an optimistic tone, stating, “We have made good progress in the first week. We’re feeling positive, but there is still much work to do. Success does not depend on one country or party alone – it requires all of us.” However, Mohamed Adow, director of the think tank Power Shift Africa, was less hopeful. “The presidency is not giving any hope for how he will help the world strike the right compromises,” Adow said. Distractions and Controversies in the First Week The opening week of COP29 was marred by controversies and external distractions. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev’s combative welcome speech drew criticism for its political tone. In his speech, Aliyev described oil and gas—key drivers of climate change—as a “gift from the Gods,” triggering criticism from climate activists. Aliyev also clashed with France, prompting the French environment minister to withdraw from the talks. Meanwhile, Argentina recalled its delegation, signaling its potential withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement under its newly elected right-wing government. Activists have also criticized the conference for being too closely tied to fossil fuel interests. Over 1,700 participants linked to the fossil fuel industry attended the negotiations, further raising concerns about the credibility of the talks. Cautious Optimism for Week Two Despite the setbacks, some leaders remain hopeful that progress can be made in the second week. Cedric Schuster, chair of the Alliance of Small Island States and environment minister of Samoa, emphasized the importance of maintaining the Paris Agreement goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. “We need to keep 1.5 alive,” Schuster said. “Discussions are progressing, and we hope to get there.” Sehr Raheja from the Centre for Science and Environment in New Delhi urged developed nations to step up: “Countries have gone for the lowest-hanging fruit so far. Developed nations will have to engage in good faith on the issues of total money needed if there’s a chance of getting a strong outcome.” Bill Hare, CEO of Climate Analytics, called for a greater sense of urgency. “Despite the recent devastation the world has experienced and the soaring rise in temperatures, the urgency really hasn’t yet been felt here in Baku,” Hare said. As the second week of COP29 begins, the focus will be on bridging the financial gap, fostering political will, and ensuring the conference delivers concrete actions to combat climate change. Whether the talks can overcome their slow start and distractions remains to be seen, but the need for decisive action has never been clearer.

#DelhiAirPocalypse: Org demands Clean Air Concession for Delhi Metro commuters

In light of the escalating air pollution crisis in Delhi, the Public Transport Forum Delhi (PTF) and Greenpeace India have called on the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) to implement a "Clean Air Concession" to make metro fares more affordable during periods of severe air pollution. This initiative is aimed at reducing dependency on private vehicles and encouraging citizens to opt for the Delhi Metro, a cleaner and more efficient mode of transport. Delhi’s air quality has reached alarming levels, with AQI often crossing into hazardous categories. Different studies suggest that transport emissions are one of the major contributors to the air pollution crisis in Delhi. Private vehicles contribute to 51.5% of Delhi's locally generated emissions, exacerbating the particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels. According to a recent report by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), public transport users face substantially higher journey costs compared to private vehicle users, largely due to hidden costs such as time spent waiting and interchanges, especially for bus journeys. The comparative cost per kilometer for different modes reveals that buses cost Rs. 40/km and the metro Rs. 47/km, while two-wheelers and cars cost Rs. 16/km and Rs. 35/km respectively. Moreover, approximately 50% of public transport users spend 18% of their annual income on transportation, while private vehicle users spend just 12%. “As Delhi is grappling with high pollution levels, the role of Delhi metro becomes essential in providing affordable public transportation to the people of Delhi. Reduced fares, increase in frequency and extension of peak hours during high pollution days in Delhi will encourage more people to use the Delhi metro and subsequently reduce the reliance on private vehicular transport”, said Aakiz Farooq, Campaigner, Greenpeace India. The proposed “Clean Air Concession” outlines measures to make public transport more accessible and appealing. It recommends reducing metro fares by 20-30% during periods of severe air pollution to encourage a shift from private vehicles. Increased train frequency and extended peak travel hours on high-pollution days are also suggested to handle the anticipated rise in ridership and improve passenger convenience. The need for more affordable public transit options to address environmental challenges keeping in view the economic context of the city is critical. Currently, travel in buses is free for women and there are discount passes for students, physically disabled and senior citizens in Delhi. “Our study on the impact of free buses for women shows that one in four women have started using buses more often after the scheme. So, making public transport more affordable or free clearly has direct benefits of increasing its use. Sadly, no such concessions exist for Delhi Metro which is even less affordable for a large section of regular commuters in the city. At least, in this season of hazardous air quality, Metro can reduce its fares to incentivise people to use metro rather than cars and motorcycles.”, said Nishant, one of the coordinators of the Public Transport Forum, an independent collective of citizens and civil society organizations. Improving first and last-mile connectivity is another priority. The proposal urges DMRC to reintroduce and expand metro feeder bus services and collaborate with initiatives like the Delhi Government’s Mohalla Bus scheme to ensure better access to metro stations, especially for underserved areas. Additionally, it advocates for a fully integrated public transport system in Delhi, enabling seamless travel between buses, metro, and paratransit systems to eliminate commuting barriers. Public awareness campaigns by DMRC could also play a vital role in inspiring citizens to choose environmentally friendly transport options. Finally, the proposal emphasizes the importance of maintaining healthy indoor air quality in metro stations during high-pollution days to ensure safe transit for passengers. The organizations emphasized that the Delhi Metro, as the lifeline of the city, is uniquely positioned to play a transformative role in addressing the air pollution crisis. Adopting these measures would not only enhance mobility but also align with Delhi's vision for a sustainable, livable urban environment.

Delhi Faces Hazardous Air Quality As Officials Propose Cloud Seeding Solutions

With AQI hitting 500, the government calls for emergency measures and artificial rain to combat severe pollution challenges Delhi is engulfed by hazardous air pollution, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) hitting alarming levels, some readings even reaching 500, indicating severe plus conditions. Environmental authorities are scrambling to address the worsening situation, prompting various emergency measures including school closures and vehicle restrictions as part of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage IV. The city has recently seen its air quality deteriorate significantly, particularly notable by the fact it recorded AQI values surpassing 400 for consecutive days. The increased levels of pollution have led to serious health concerns for residents, especially for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. With the weather conditions aggravate the smog, clouds covering the city, Delhi residents are facing the very real consequences of this environmental crisis. Officials, including Delhi’s Environment Minister Gopal Rai, have begun advocating for cloud seeding—an artificial rain technique to alleviate the severe smog conditions. Rai has called for the urgent convening of meetings with Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav to discuss the feasibility of this solution. He pointed out the dire need for immediate action, urging the central government to facilitate cloud seeding to combat the high levels of pollution hanging over the national capital. “The entire North India is gripped by air pollution, and artificial rain may be the only option to disperse this toxic haze,” Rai said during press conferences, emphasizing the gravity of the situation which he labeled as nothing short of medical emergency. There’s been mounting criticism directed at the central government for its delayed actions concerning pollution control, with several requests for meetings on cloud seeding remaining unanswered. Rai criticized the federal environment authorities for not convening discussions earlier, stating, “Despite multiple requests, no meeting has been held to explore cloud seeding as an option.” The Delhi government has already enacted multiple policies to address the crisis: banning older vehicles, restricting commercial trucks from entering the city, closing schools temporarily, and enforcing staggered office hours to limit commuter traffic. Despite these efforts, the city still grapples with pollution levels far above the World Health Organization's recommended safety limits. Meanwhile, experts from various environmental organizations warn of the implication of not taking immediate action. They suggest additional measures beyond short-term responses. Anumita Roychowdhury, one such expert, emphasizes, “While the immediate response is to avoid adding to the pollution problem, true change requires addressing major pollution sources seriously.” Measures encouraged by experts include reducing vehicle use, opting for public transportation, and minimizing outdoor activities. Dr. Gufran Beig, associated with the System of Air Quality Forecasting and Research, stresses the importance of wearing masks outdoors and ensuring good ventilation indoors. He cautions the residents against the misconception of closing windows to keep pollution at bay, asserting the necessity of air circulation within buildings. The persistent air quality crisis has prompted legal action as well. The Supreme Court has stepped in, instructing authorities to maintain GRAP Stage IV restrictions regardless of fluctuations below the 450 AQI mark, highlighting the inadequacies of prior pollution control implementations. The court's directive came following public outcry and health advisories urging all residents to remain indoors and wear N95 masks when venturing outside. It has been previously noted how adverse weather conditions—especially lack of wind—have aggravated smog conditions, leading to stagnant pollution levels. The discussions surrounding cloud seeding have opened up debates on weather modification techniques. Proponents argue it presents a necessary action amid acute smog episodes. Cloud seeding involves dispersing chemicals like silver iodide or potassium iodide to encourage moisture uptake within clouds, potentially leading to localized rain. Historically, this approach has sparked interest as emergencies arise, but it remains controversial due to environmental and ethical concerns. “Cloud seeding is not the end-all solution,” cautions Dahiya, urging long-term strategy enhancement alongside emergency actions like cloud seeding. Overall, there's consensus among officials and experts alike on the need to cultivate public awareness about air quality issues and empower residents to hold the government accountable for pollution control actions. Social media campaigns and community efforts may bolster efforts; according to experts, building public pressure can compel policy change and implementation of necessary pollution controls. Community-driven initiatives encouraging local citizens to adopt environmentally friendly practices might also help mitigate the consequences of poor air quality. The situation became dire as temperatures drop, and winter often exacerbates the effect of existing pollutants, bringing colder air and fog trapping emissions at ground level. Such meteorological patterns have historically cornered Delhi residents during winter months, wherein they endure the brunt of significant air quality issues.

G20 Fails To Give Clear Signal On Climate Finance, But Support For Multilateralism Key: Experts

G20 leaders have not given a strong signal to negotiators trying to agree on a new finance package to support climate action in developing countries, many climate experts feel. However, they say it is important that the 20 richest nations in the world, accounting for 80 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, have reaffirmed their support for multilateralism and the UN climate convention to solve climate problems. This comes amid concerns about the US and Argentina pulling out of the Paris Agreement, which has hurt the morale of negotiators at the talks in Baku. The G20’s pushback on "unilateral trade practices", like the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, is also seen as crucial for developing countries. That said, experts note some key gaps in the G20 statement. It does not explicitly mention transitioning away from fossil fuels or mobilising resources to address loss and damage caused by climate change. Vaibhav Chaturvedi, a senior fellow at the Delhi-based Council on Energy, Environment, and Water, said the G20 is not the right platform to discuss the new climate finance package being negotiated at COP29 under the UNFCCC process. The real issues about quantum and who will contribute are not addressed at the G20. These questions go beyond the G20, he said. He added that the G20 leaders’ emphasis on multilateralism is important. "This is one of the first points in the climate section. Despite uncertainties like the US and Argentina pulling out, they have stressed that the multilateral process is key," Chaturvedi said. Harjeet Singh, climate activist and Global Engagement Director for the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, criticised developed nations in the G20 for failing to specify the trillions needed or ensure funds are given as grants, which are crucial for climate justice. "Without decisive progress on finance at COP29, we are steering towards a catastrophic temperature scenario, where the most vulnerable will bear the gravest consequences," he said. Trishant Dev, a programme officer at the Delhi-based Centre for Science and Environment, welcomed the G20’s stand against restrictive trade measures. He said such measures hurt developing countries and need to be aligned with the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR). The G20 declaration could pressure countries to discuss these issues at COP29, especially since developed nations often use climate action to justify these trade policies, he said. Chaturvedi added that the G20 had made it clear that unilateral measures should not be used as unjustified trade restrictions. Securing an agreement on a new climate finance package to help developing countries cut emissions and adapt to climate change is a top priority for this year's UN climate talks. Different estimates suggest that USD 1.3 trillion is needed annually to tackle worsening climate impacts. But countries are struggling to agree on how much money is needed, how the package will work, and who will contribute. For developing nations, restrictive trade measures are another major concern. Last week, India argued that these measures unfairly shift the burden of transitioning to low-carbon economies onto developing and low-income nations. At the same time, developed nations, which have historically caused the most emissions, are not meeting their climate finance commitments. UN climate chief Simon Stiell on Saturday also urged G20 leaders to carry out rapid cuts in emissions to prevent climate-driven economic carnage.

Impose temporary curfew, stagger work timings, don’t wait till last minute to introduce curbs: Experts on Delhi’s air crisis

Better public transport, traffic management, staggered office timings around the year for all, and 24×7 surveillance on construction sites — these are some methods air pollution experts and environmentalists suggest. The city’s air quality has been in the ‘severe plus’ category for the third consecutive day on Tuesday. A combination of meteorological factors such as low wind speeds, dip in temperature, as well as pollutant emissions from stubble burning and local sources are the cause of this. TALKING HEADS Prof Mukesh Sharma, co-author of IIT Kanpur’s source apportionment study on air pollution in Delhi: “Apart from the Graded Response Action Plan, which is all part of the requirements, steps have to be taken as early as possible. The more stringent of the emergency measures are taken in months as late as November. Work should start in the earlier months to reduce air pollution. There is only little that a citizen can do by wearing masks, minimising exposure, and protecting themselves at this time.” Prof Gufran Beig, Principal Investigator at the National Institute of Advanced Studies: “When Particulate Matter 2.5 remains the lead pollutant and the humidity is so high, water sprinkling will not suffice. Water sprinkling will only reduce PM 10 and bigger particles which is not as harmful as PM 2.5. Without making traffic conditions as smooth as possible, stagnation conditions will only add to the misery. As far as the long-term trend is concerned, there has been a discussion of the airshed approach where gap areas have been clearly identified. We need to move forward with this though it will take time.” Festive offer Anumita Roychowdhury, Executive Director of Research and Advocacy at the Centre for Science and Environment: “In Delhi and NCR, we are not prepared to implement changes in each sector at a scale and speed that is needed. With the current annual emissions in Delhi, it needs a 60 per cent reduction to be able to meet the clean air standard… For instance, the only way to control transportation and vehicular pollution is to understand how the city is scaling up its public transport infrastructure and last-mile connectivity to reduce private vehicle use. Similarly, we need to control industrial pollution. This can only happen when we look at the type of fuels and technologies used across all types of industries.” Anand Arya, a Noida-based environmental activist: “In the short term, the focus should be on conducting traffic studies and staggering work timings of people… not only in government offices. This should happen the entire year. Public transport connectivity across NCR should be strengthened. Metro expansion must be taken up on a war footing.”

Delhi's AQI hits 500: What is smog and how it aects us

Delhi's AQI hits 500: An explainer on smog as thick haze from stubble burning, weather, and pollutants choke the city, prompting emergency measures under GRAP to combat the severe air quality crisis. Thick grey haze choked Delhi for the third consecutive day on Tuesday, with pollution levels reaching a dangerous 488 on the Air Quality Index (AQI), falling into the ‘severe plus’ category. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI stood at 488 at 9 am. On Monday, Delhi had recorded its second-worst air quality in six years, with the AQI reaching 494. The city’s worsening air quality is attributed to a combination of factors, including adverse weather conditions, stubble burning, and smog. Residents are grappling with unbreathable air and severely reduced visibility. Smog is a mix of smoke and fog, and there are two main types: Photochemical smog and Sulfurous smog. Photochemical smog is the most common. Photochemical smog, often referred to as 'Los Angeles Smog', is mainly formed in the summer months, particularly in subtropical areas. It consists of gases like carbon oxides, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. This type of smog forms when sunlight reacts with nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the atmosphere. Unlike sulfurous smog, photochemical smog doesn’t require smoke or fog to form. Nitrogen oxides are emitted by vehicles, power plants, and factories, while VOCs come from sources like paints, gasoline, and cleaning products. CAUSES OF SMOG Smog is caused when air pollutants and exhaust gases from human activities mix with the atmosphere. It results from the reaction of emissions from automobiles, industrial facilities, and power plants with sunlight. Other contributing factors include coal combustion, vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, and agricultural fires. The formation of smog is also influenced by local weather conditions, temperature, and climate. Long-term exposure to smog can have severe health consequences, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, asthma, allergies, and a weakened immune system. Smog can also increase the risk of developing cancer and other serious conditions. The eects can extend beyond humans: smog can contaminate plants and animals, especially those exposed to polluted air In Delhi, air pollution contributes to 10,000 to 30,000 premature deaths annually, according to the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) report in 2023. The London Smog of 1952, which saw particulate matter (PM) levels reach around 500 micrograms per cubic meter, led to over 4,000 premature deaths due to a combination of high PM and sulfur dioxide (SO2) levels.

India asks rich nations to remove technology transfer barriers

India on Monday called on developed countries to remove barriers to technology transfer, increase public climate finance, and avoid unfair trade measures disguised as climate action. The appeal came during a high-level ministerial roundtable on pre-2030 ambition at the UN climate talks in Baku. India's environment secretary Leena Nandan also urged rich nations to take the lead in cutting emissions and achieving netzero by 2030. “This is essential to build a stronger, sustainable future,” she said. The official said that innovative technologies are critical for a low-carbon future but said they must be made accessible to developing countries. Developing countries need solutions like clean energy and carbon removal, but barriers like intellectual property rights make it hard for them to access these technologies, Nandan said. “COP29 should come up with practical solutions to make technology affordable, adaptable, and relevant for developing countries,” she added. India asked developed countries to close the massive climate finance gap delaying climate action in developing countries. "Trillions of dollars are needed for clean energy projects, disasterresilient infrastructure, and climate adaptation... It should be ensured that that deviation from leastcost development pathways committed by developing countries are fully met though public finance by developed countries. "Not doing so puts additional cost on people in developing countries bearing a disproportionate burden of climate change without having caused the problem," Nandan said. India also raised strong objections to unilateral trade measures like the European Union's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which it said unfairly shifts the costs of climate action to poorer nations. These measures hurt international cooperation and add financial burdens to developing countries, Nandan warned. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman last month termed CBAM "unilateral and arbitrary" and said such measures could potentially harm India's industries and disrupt the balance in international trade. According to Delhibased think tank Centre for Science and Environment, CBAM will impose an additional 25 per cent tax on carbon-intensive goods exported from India to the EU. This tax burden would represent 0.05 per cent of the country's GDP. India also highlighted that global emissions could peak by 2030, as the 2024 NDC synthesis report projects that emissions will be 2.6 per cent lower in 2030 compared to 2019 levels. This is achievable if all countries work together. But for this to happen, developing nations need access to finance, technology, and capacity-building support, it said.

G20 Summit Fails to Provide Clear Climate Finance Direction, but Multilateral Support Remains Crucial: Experts

G20 leaders have been criticized for not sending a clear signal on a new climate finance package to support developing nations, despite reaffirming their commitment to multilateralism and the UN climate convention as key mechanisms for addressing global climate challenges. As negotiators gather in Baku for COP29, many experts express concern that the G20's statements do not address crucial issues, such as the transition away from fossil fuels or providing financial support for loss and damage caused by climate change. The lack of a robust climate finance commitment, experts say, risks undermining global climate action, particularly in developing countries already grappling with the impacts of climate change. Vaibhav Chaturvedi, Senior Fellow at the Council on Energy, Environment, and Water (CEEW) in Delhi, noted that the G20 is not the appropriate platform for negotiating the details of the climate finance package, which remains under discussion at COP29 as part of the UNFCCC process. According to Chaturvedi, the key questions around the financial quantum and the specifics of who will contribute are not addressed in the G20 statement. However, he emphasized that the G20’s commitment to multilateralism remains significant, particularly in light of the US and Argentina’s wavering commitment to the Paris Agreement. “Despite uncertainties like the US and Argentina pulling out, the G20 has reiterated that the multilateral process is crucial,” he said. While the G20's multilateral approach is seen as important, climate activist Harjeet Singh criticized the group’s failure to specify the financial scale required to tackle climate change, particularly for the most vulnerable nations. Singh, who is also the Global Engagement Director for the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, emphasized the need for climate finance to be delivered as grants, not loans. "Without decisive progress on finance at COP29, we risk heading toward a catastrophic temperature rise, with the most vulnerable bearing the brunt of the consequences," Singh warned. The G20’s stance against unilateral trade measures, such as the European Union's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), has been hailed as a positive development for developing countries. These measures, which impose tariffs on carbon-intensive imports, are seen by critics as an unfair burden on poorer nations that are trying to transition to low-carbon economies. Trishant Dev, Programme Officer at the Centre for Science and Environment in Delhi, welcomed the G20’s opposition to such trade practices, highlighting the need for climate policies to align with the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR), which recognizes that developed countries should take the lead in addressing climate change. Chaturvedi agreed that the G20’s position on trade measures is significant, emphasizing that the leaders had made it clear that such unilateral actions should not be used as unjustified trade restrictions. This could help shift the conversation at COP29 toward fairer climate finance solutions and prevent the use of climate action as a pretext for trade barriers. As the UN climate talks continue, the pressure is mounting to reach an agreement on a new climate finance package to help developing countries reduce emissions and adapt to climate change. Estimates suggest that at least USD 1.3 trillion per year is needed to address the worsening climate impacts, but the path to securing these funds remains unclear. Moreover, developing countries have raised concerns about the fairness of trade policies that disproportionately impact them, especially as developed nations fail to meet their climate finance commitments. UN climate chief Simon Stiell also urged G20 leaders to commit to more rapid emissions reductions to avoid devastating economic and environmental consequences. As the world moves closer to the critical COP29 discussions, the outcome of these talks will be pivotal in determining the future of climate finance and the global effort to tackle climate change.

India unable to meet WHO air quality standards; airshed approach, US-style EPA needed, says former WHO chief scientist

Dr Soumya Swaminathan, former chief scientist at the World Health Organization, says India should adopt an “airshed approach” to analyze its air pollution crisis and set up an environment protection agency to enforce government rules with strict action. The remarks by Swaminathan, who is principal adviser for the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) at the Union ministry of health and family welfare (MoHFW), were made in an interview with Mint. They come as the air quality index (AQI) in Delhi spikes record levels, forcing the state government to issue emergency orders, including school closures. Edited excerpts: Every year during the onset of winters, an air pollution havoc starts. What lessons should we draw? The air quality index (AQI) in India varies from place to place. In India, we have the National Clean Air Program (NCAP) and they have set up close to 1,000 monitoring stations nationwide. They provide real-time updates on the air quality. We also need to put such stations in rural areas. We also need to do airshed approach analysis because air is not something which is limited over Delhi or cities. What is airshed analysis? Airshed analysis studies air movement by seeing satellite technology. For example, if we look at satellite images, the entire Indo-Gangetic plan – starting from Pakistan to North Indian states like Punjab, Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and going over Bihar, West Bengal, Nepal and spinning into Bangladesh – is covered in a thick blanket of smog. So, air pollution is a combination of meteorological factors which come into play at this time of the year when the air gets colder. Other factors which contribute to air pollution during this time are stubble burning, firecrackers at Diwali but it is not limited to these factors only. A Centre for Science & Environment (CSE) study showed stubble burning accounted for only 4% of the air pollution in Delhi -- the rest of it was coming from transport, construction site, burning of waste, factories, industries, local cooking fuel, road dust etc. So, airshed is a way of looking at the whole issue rather than piece by piece, identifying from where and which direction the pollution is coming, root causes etc. So, countries need to work together in setting the standards and enforcements within their own national borders. Also, we are not meeting the WHO Air quality standards. There’s hardly any place in India which meets WHO Air quality standards. What are the WHO standards for air pollution? WHO standards states that PM2.5 should be less than 15 micrograms per cubic meter, while for PM10 it is less than 30. According to the NCAP, the annual cut off for PM2.5 is 40 µg/m3 and for PM10 it is 60 µg/m3. I also suggest that NCAP must re-look their strategies as at present their whole goal is to reduce PM10 by 2026. However, PM2.5 is more dangerous as it penetrates into lungs causing more severe health concerns like respiratory illness, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cardiovascular diseases etc. Air pollution has a huge impact on economy as people cannot go out to work, fall sick, stay indoors and schools and offices are gets closed. It is estimated that India loses about 1.6% to 1.8% of GDP every year because of air pollution. In your opinion, what steps should the government take? We need to attack the sources of air pollution which vary across India. For example, for transport, we need to ensure that trucks which have not migrated to BS-4 fuel standards, should be off the roads. Similarly, every class of vehicle which is not meeting emission standards should be off the roads. We need to strengthen our public transport. See how London did it. In cities like Delhi, we have a good metro system, but we need more electric buses. Encourage walking and cycling. We should put strict control of emission coming from industries, and agencies much take strict action against non-compliance. Poor people should have access to clean fuel. We need to expand the Ujjwala scheme for the poor who want to get their LPG re-filled at a subsidized price. Monitoring PM2.5 also needs to be done. Enforcement of the rules in the right way is required and setting up of an Environment Protection Agency (EPA) in the US. We already have Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) and Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)? Yes, but they look at the small parts of the problems. They are not enforcing the rules. We need one agency which needs to put scientific inputs, and regulatory agencies have to be based on science from physical, medical, social fields. Should India join hands with international agencies so that we are on the same page? A couple of years ago, India had signed The Thimphu Declaration, where India, Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh came together to address air pollution in the Indo-Gangetic Plain together. Air pollution is a cross-border issue, and the goal is to bring down AQI to 35 by 2035. This was supported by the World Bank. So, these international banks are financing these programmes. We also have the support of technical agencies like WHO etc. Every country needs to set the target by how much they are going to reduce PM2.5 emission. I think, India can take the leadership as we have the potential to do it in terms of capacity, infrastructure, manpower to financing and political will.

India Demands Removal Of IPR Barriers To Boost Climate Action

At the UN climate talks in Baku, Azerbaijan, India urged developed nations to eliminate intellectual property rights (IPR) barriers hindering technology transfer to developing countries. Environment Secretary Leena Nandan emphasized that innovative technologies critical for a low-carbon future must be accessible to poorer nations to support their climate efforts. Speaking at a ministerial roundtable on pre-2030 climate ambitions, Nandan stressed that developed countries must lead in cutting emissions and achieving net-zero targets by 2030 to foster a sustainable future. She called on COP29 to deliver practical solutions to make clean technologies affordable and adaptable for developing nations. India also highlighted the urgent need to address the climate finance gap. Nandan pointed out that trillions of dollars are required annually for clean energy projects, climate adaptation, and disaster-resilient infrastructure. She asserted that developed countries must fulfill their climate finance commitments through public funding rather than relying on profit-driven private sector investments. PlayUnmute Fullscreen Criticism was directed at unilateral trade measures like the European Union's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which imposes taxes on imports such as steel, cement, and aluminum from countries like India and China. Nandan argued that CBAM unfairly shifts the cost of climate action to developing nations, undermining global cooperation. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman previously described CBAM as "unilateral and arbitrary," cautioning that it could harm Indian industries. According to a Centre for Science and Environment study, CBAM could result in an additional 25% tax on India’s carbon-intensive exports, equivalent to 0.05% of the GDP. During a dialogue on "just transition," Nandan called for fairness and climate justice in addressing global challenges. She emphasized that developed nations must acknowledge their historical emissions and support the growth priorities of the Global South. Principles like equity and "common but differentiated responsibilities" should guide international climate action Highlighting energy disparities, Nandan noted that India’s per capita energy consumption is one-third of the global average, reflecting its development challenges. She called for developed countries to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030, enabling developing nations to grow with lower transition costs. She further advocated for monetizing the "carbon debt" owed by wealthier nations due to their excessive resource usage. India reiterated that global emissions could peak by 2030 if all nations collaborate. However, achieving this requires developing countries to have equitable access to finance, technology, and capacity-building support. The country’s demands reflect its commitment to ensuring that climate action is inclusive and just for all nations.

Delhi's Air Pollution: Slow Murder A Decade In The Making

New Delhi is choking under a haze of pollution, which is an expected crisis in the Capital city every winter. Delhi's air pollution is the result of decades of unchecked construction, excessive usage of private road vehicles, industrial growth, and political indifference. Even as the Supreme Court of India took up the matter and ordered GRAP protocols, the capital’s citizens woke up on Tuesday to hazardous air quality, with the index at 500. Delhi woke up to its pollution crisis in October 2016, when the city experienced smog episodes with PM2.5 levels—dangerous fine particulate matter—reaching 750 micrograms per cubic metre, 12 times the safe limit. PlayUnmute Fullscreen In response, the Aam Aadmi Party government implemented the "Odd-Even" scheme to reduce vehicular emissions. However, the scheme's impact has yet to be measured. In addition, the same year, the Supreme Court directed the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MOEFCC) to devise a coordinated plan to tackle pollution episodes, resulting in the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in 2017. However, the capital’s pollution crisis has been decades in the making. India introduced landmark legislations, such as the 1981 Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act and the 1986 Environment (Protection) Act, to curb pollution. However, Delhi's air pollution crisis dates back to the 1990s. During this decade, rapid urban growth and industrialisation overwhelmed any impact of these legislative measures. In 1996, the Centre for Science and Environment released its Slow Murder report, chronicling the city's worsening pollution. This report spurred the Supreme Court to intervene, demanding an action plan from the Delhi government. Delhi’s government proposed its first air pollution control plan in 1998 and launched the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) in 1998. The Authority introduced compressed natural gas (CNG) for public transport vehicles, reducing emissions from buses and auto-rickshaws. However, in the 2000s, Delhi's population grew exponentially—from 16.6 million in 2001 to over 46 million by 2011. The number of registered vehicles, too, grew from 4.24 million in 2004 to over 10.8 million in 2018. The city’s public transportation infrastructure buckled under the pressure of overpopulation. At the same time, Delhi saw an industrial relocation as many factories moved to NCR towns outside the capital city’s borders. This only created new pollution hotspots. Other factors include burning crop residue in neighbouring states, particularly during winter, when weather conditions trap pollutants closer to the ground. Transparency and monitoring showed some progress during the 2010s. In 2009, the National Ambient Air Quality Standards were revised to include 12 pollutants. In 2014, the National Air Quality Index(NAQI) was introduced. The NAQI simplified air quality data into accessible categories, raising public awareness about the severity of Delhi’s air pollution. In 2017, India attempted to attack vehicular pollution by implementing Bharat Stage IV (BSIV) vehicular emission norms nationwide. However, this proved insufficient in the face of growing sources of pollution. Meanwhile, solid waste burning and unregulated construction activities continued unabated.

India's wish at COP29: $600 billion in grant-based climate finance from developed countries

India is pushing for at least $600 billion in grant-based climate finance from developed countries out of the overall demand of $1.3 trillion for developing countries, a senior negotiator from India said. The official, in an exclusive chat with this correspondent on Saturday on the sidelines of the COP29 summit in Baku, said India was also pushing for the Loss and Damage Fund (LDF) as it is one of the most climatically vulnerable countries and has borne the brunt of repeated extreme weather events. A section of climate experts maintains that India should not demand LDF and should leave it to the smaller vulnerable countries. “We are very clear — we have demanded that there should be $1.3 trillion overall annual climate finance support from 2025 onwards for the developing countries to flow from developed countries, of which at least $600 billion should be in the form of grant while the additional amount may be coughed up from other sources,” the official said. However, the official made it clear that even if part of the finance gets sourced from the private sector, it should be under the overall ambit of developed countries. "This (paying the amount) is the responsibility of developed countries... from where and how they organise it is their lookout. But all funds should come through them only,” the official added. Speaking on behalf of Like-Minded Developing Countries at the high-level ministerial on climate finance on November 14, India had asserted the “need to mobilise at least $1.3 trillion every year till 2030, without subjecting developing countries to growth-inhibiting conditionalities". Naresh Pal Gangwar, additional secretary in the ministry of environment, forest and climate change and lead negotiator at COP29, had delivered the statement. India had earlier pitched for $1 trillion annually in global investment for climate action. A report released recently by the UN also referred to $1 trillion in climate finance but observed that about half of the fund could come from private financial sources across the borders, a view that many feel may form the cornerstone of the upcoming financial negotiations where political leaders, including India’s minister of state for environment Kirti Vardhan Singh, are expected to hash out a consensus on the quality and quantity of finance. “A few drafts of the NCQG (new, collective, quantifiable goal) of climate finance have been out but there has been hardly any meaningful progress so far as developed countries have not mentioned anything on the quantum clearly and are just dragging the discussion” Harjeet Singh, a climate expert and key anti-fossil fuel campaigner, said. The Telegraph has accessed the latest draft of the new climate finance goal, which was condensed to 25 pages from 34 pages, but the key points of concern and disagreements persist. On the LDF, which was set up at the Dubai COP after years of discord within the developed and developing country groups, the Indian official said: “According to the global agreement on loss and damage, the fund is open to all developing countries, as we are one of the most vulnerable countries of the world. A report from Germanwatch earlier showed that India is close to the top of the list, both in terms of mortality and financial loss, because of climatic impacts — on the annual and decadal scales." “I think India has all the right to claim for loss and damage funds,” said India’s leading climate expert Sunita Narain of the Center for Science and Environment. “The Indian stand augurs well for vulnerable communities like those in the Sunderbans where close to 5 million people are at the doorstep of climatic disasters. Out of that, according to a World Bank study, nearly 25 per cent are at acute risk… many of them have already suffered repeated disasters and incurred huge losses and hence they need all the support from the newly created fund,” a Bengal-based climate expert said.

GRAP in force, but no end to open waste burning & cracker bursting

GRAP restrictions are in place and the city is cloaked in smog that is equivalent to smoking dozens of cigarettes a day, but none of it has deterred people from bursting firecrackers to celebrate weddings, and resort to open waste burning. Heaps of garbage were seen ablaze at several spots in the city on Sunday. A pile of trash at a green belt in Sector 86 took 20 minutes to douse, residents said. Other areas where waste was burnt in the open were — DLF 2, IFFCO Chowk, Sector 10 and Udyog Vihar. Locals said shopkeepers, garbage collectors, sanitation workers and security guards burn waste in the open. "The garbage disposal system is not in place, so people tend to burn waste. Also, as the marriage season has begun, it is also giving people an excuse to burn crackers. These are major reasons that we are suffering," said Rishav Gaur, a resident of Sector 85. "Firecrackers have always been a part of our celebrations, but the worsening air quality is alarming. We need to rethink our traditions to protect our health and environment," said Neena Gupta, a resident of Sector 40. "Firecrackers add to pollution and it is becoming unbearable. It's high time we consider more sustainable ways to celebrate," said Anish Yadav, who lives in Palam Vihar. Experts say smoke from burning waste and leaves releases tiny pollutants that can get embedded in the lungs when inhaled. "Waste burning in the open releases PM 2.5, PM 10, oxides of nitrogen and carbon monoxide," said Shubhansh Tiwari, a research associate at the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE). Under the third stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), construction and demolition activities, operations of stone crushers, all mining and associated activities, and using BS III petrol and BS IV diesel LMVs (four-wheelers) are banned across Delhi-NCR. GRAP-3 was enforced on Nov 15, when air quality across NCR reached hazardous levels, and GRAP 4 — with even stricter curbs — will be in effect from Monday, Nov 18. In Gurgaon, the district administration had banned the production, sale and bursting of traditional firecrackers from Oct 22 till Jan 31 next year. ‘Green' crackers, which don't have barium salts, can be burst only for a few hours on Diwali, Christmas and some other festivals. "We have increased patrols and surveillance to ensure compliance with the ban on firecrackers. Violators will face stringent penalties. To tackle open waste burning, MCG has enhanced waste collection services and is encouraging residents to segregate waste at the source," said Vijay Chaudhary, regional officer (south), Gurgaon, Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) Separately, HSPCB officials said they sealed a construction site in DLF 5 as work was going on despite the ban. Other mandatory measures, which are applicable with or without GRAP, were found missing there too. Loose soil was found uncovered. One DG set of capacity 250 KVA was found installed with inadequate stack height, and water sprinkling was not being carried out. The site has two anti-smog guns but it needs to install a total of four as the construction area is large, they said. "We are taking action against the violators who are not complying with GRAP norms. We have sealed four ready-mix cement factories, and two other closure notices have been issued since Friday. We are also imposing environmental compensation on sites that are not following the norms," said Nirmal Kashyap, head of the air-cell of Haryana, HSPCB.