The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) will run 20 additional train trips across its network on weekdays starting Thursday, October 22, as Stage-1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) takes effect in Delhi, PTI reported. The extra trips, running Monday to Friday, are meant to encourage more people to use public transport instead of personal vehicles while anti-pollution restrictions are in force.

Source: PTI (via DailyWorld)

In a release reported by DevDiscourse, DMRC said it is also intensifying anti-pollution drives at its construction sites and in surrounding areas across the national capital to help bring down dust levels. Metro engineers will thoroughly inspect construction sites and nearby roads to ensure construction material is properly covered and wheel-wash facilities for outgoing vehicles are in working condition, the release said.

DMRC said about 31 kilometres of city roads are currently under its temporary jurisdiction for metro construction work in the vicinity, and most of these roads have already been repaired so they do not add to pollution. More than 250 anti-smog guns and mist guns have been installed at construction sites, stations and office buildings, and DMRC's Environment Department is conducting daily inspections to ensure environmental norms are followed, the release said. The drives include removing road dust from surrounding roads and clearing garbage from footpaths and road medians, in addition to measures already in place.

The steps follow the Commission for Air Quality Management's decision on Wednesday to impose GRAP Stage-1 measures across Delhi-NCR after the capital's Air Quality Index rose to 244, in the 'poor' category — Delhi's first 'poor' air day of the season.

GRAP-1 curbs, including a ban on coal and firewood in eatery tandoors and limits on diesel generators, were imposed across Delhi-NCR on Wednesday. Read: GRAP-1 curbs imposed as Delhi AQI hits 244

Sources: PTI (via DailyWorld), DevDiscourse (DMRC release).