PM2.5 hits peak level in Noida

NOIDA: As air pollution levels reached 'severe' category, the Gautam Buddh Nagar administration on Wednesday ordered a stop of all private construction activity, garbage burning in the open, functioning of hot mix plants and all other such activities.

The level of PM2.5 shot up to a peak level of 500 micrograms per cubic metre in Noida on Wednesday.

A drive to sprinkle water on all the major roads nearby construction sites was also carried by the district authority on Wednesday.

While schools were given no orders to close down, some decided to voluntary close junior classes on November 8 and 9.

Central School in Noida also announced to voluntarily remain shut till Class VIII on November 9 and 10.

"A stringent action plan and implementing Graded Response Action Plan is being followed in the city to curb rising air pollution levels. Construction sites have been given strict instructions on compliance of dust control norms. Among other measures are curbing of garbage burning and imposing penalties on farmers for stubble burning. The decision to shut schools will be taken after monitoring the conditions for next 24 hours," said B N Singh, district magistrate, Gautam Buddh Nagar.

According to officials of the pollution control board, the current situation in NCR has been caused due high humidity and slow wind speed.

The dust accumulated in the air will be removed if it rains.