Five-year plan to reduce air pollution

The Indian government has released a five-year plan to reduce air pollution in the 102 worst-affected cities in the country by 20-30 percent by 2024. The air pollution level in the Indian capital of New Delhi became severe, officials said on Sunday. The overall air quality index remained in the severe category at 414, according to the Indian Central Pollution Control Board. The plan outlines multiple actions and their timelines for central ministries, states and citylevel agencies seeking to curb vehicular, industrial and thermal power emissions and reduce the air pollution from the burning of crop residue and firewood, brick production, construction and other activities. Some actions are either ongoing or due for immediate implementation, while others have timelines up to 2024.