The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued a sharp notice to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and came down heavily on the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) over the operation of toll plazas at key entry points to the national capital.

Vehicles with BS4 engines will be exempted from action if they are found running in Delhi, the Supreme Court said today, modifying its earlier order banning 10-year-old diesel-run vehicles and 15-year-old petrol-run vehicles from December 18

The minister also announced a compensation of Rs 10,000 for registered construction workers who have lost employment due to halted construction activities under GRAP restrictions.

Delhi Labour Minister Kapil Mishra on Wednesday announced Rs 10,000 in compensation for construction workers rendered unemployed due to the pollution-battling GRAP III and GRAP IV measures.

A video shows a long stretch of vehicles, both private and commercial, at a standstill near Rohtang Pass

Delhi has implemented GRAP IV due to severe winter pollution, restricting schools, offices, vehicle entry, and construction activities to improve air quality.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday questioned why there is a pollution crisis in the national capital despite no farm fires now.

Poor air quality impacts the health of children severely. Fine particulate matter like PM2.5, coarse particles such as PM10, nitrogen dioxide, and others pose serious threats to the health of children.

Air pollution doesn't just harm the lungs. Doctors warn that chronic smog exposure triggers systemic inflammation, worsening joint pain and accelerating damage, especially in shoulders and hips.

Shillong's exceptionally low air pollution levels result from its highaltitude location, abundant greenery, limited industrial activity and active cleanliness initiatives, helping it rank among India's cities with the best air quality.