Delhi Minister Apologizes for Air Pollution, Announces Measures

Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa apologized to residents on Tuesday for the city's persistent air pollution, acknowledging the challenges while outlining new enforcement measures to curb emissions in the national capital.

Speaking at a press briefing, Sirsa stated that no newly elected government could fully address the Air Quality Index within nine to ten months. "It is impossible for any elected government to reduce AQI in 9-10 months. I apologise for the pollution in Delhi," he said. He added that the current administration has made daily progress in lowering pollution levels, with the AQI standing at 377 on Tuesday morning, an improvement from 498 the previous day. The index remained in the very poor category, following three days in the severe range, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board. Low visibility from smog, combined with temperatures dipping to 8.3 degrees Celsius, led to the cancellation of more than 50 IndiGo flights.

To tackle vehicular emissions, a primary pollution source, Sirsa announced that vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control certificate would be denied fuel at petrol pumps starting Thursday, December 18....