Delhi starts winter pollution curbs as haze returns to the capital

Delhi has begun its Winter Action Plan as haze and smoky air return, bringing eye irritation, breathing difficulties and coughs for residents. The early start has been welcomed by experts, but they say it will matter only if measures are enforced and form part of longer-term action against pollution.

The plan runs from 1 November to 28 February and restricts older, more polluting vehicles from entering the city, pauses some dust-generating construction and encourages less private car use. Delhi has also activated the second stage of the separate federal response plan, which restricts diesel generators and burning coal or firewood. Pollution is driven by several sources, including traffic, factories, construction dust and crop-residue burning, while winter weather traps pollutants near the ground.