UPDATED: Oct 21, 2026 18:14 ISTA thick layer of toxic smog engulfed Delhi and the National Capital Region a day after Dussehra celebrations, causing the Air Quality Index to cross the 200 mark into the poor category. The sudden deterioration followed the burning of effigies and firecrackers across various localities, combined with calm wind conditions.

In response to the rising pollution levels, the Commission for Air Quality Management and the Delhi government enforced Stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan. While the government prepares to implement its winter action plan restricting construction activities and encouraging work from home from November, questions were raised over timely enforcement and proactive measures ahead of the festive season.

Health experts advised residents to wear N95 masks and avoid strenuous outdoor exercise during early morning and evening hours as winter pollution sets in. Read MoreVIDEOS FROM OTHER SECTIONSLATEST VIDEOSDelhi AQI Plummets Post Dussehra; GRAP 1 Implemented Across NCR Amid Rising Air PollutionAir quality across Delhi and the National Capital Region deteriorated significantly following Dussehra celebrations and effigy burning, with the Air Quality Index climbing to 244 and morning levels touching 291.

In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management invoked Stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The emergency measures mandate heightened dust control at construction zones, checks on road dust, efficient waste handling, and intensified surveillance against polluting activities.

The move follows the capital's winter pollution mitigation plan, which includes vehicle emission curbs, promotion of public transport, and work-from-home provisions to curb rising pollution levels.Blast In Bengaluru Under-Construction Site After Workers Open Bag; Police Probe Suspected IEDA mysterious explosion at an under-construction building in Bengaluru's Fraser Town injured two construction workers after they opened an abandoned bag found on the road. The victims, identified as Alauddin and Suraj, carried the bag to the fourth floor and attempted to turn on a battery connected to a machine inside, triggering the blast.

One worker suffered minor injuries while the other lost a finger. Samples have been sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory to determine if the device was an improvised explosive device.

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