Delhi launches campaign to curb open waste burning as air quality worsens

The Delhi government will begin a campaign today to discourage open burning of waste. This follows a meeting on air pollution, where officials noted that air quality remains in the 'very poor' category despite a slight improvement. Environment Minister Gopal Rai reported that Delhi and neighboring states are expected to experience 'very poor' air quality for the next ten days. He stated that adverse weather conditions, including lower temperatures and reduced wind speeds, will contribute to ongoing pollution. Officials from 33 departments have been placed on high alert to implement the Winter Action Plan and Graded Response Action Plan. Teams will monitor open waste burning, and heaters will be provided for night shift workers to reduce reliance on open fires.