Sun Oct 20 07:33:52 UTC 2024: **Summary of Delhi News Updates:**

1. **Severe Air Quality in Delhi:**
– Delhi’s air quality has reached alarming levels, especially in Anand Vihar, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 436 classified as “severe.”
– Chief Minister Atishi and Environment Minister Gopal Rai conducted a review of air quality monitoring efforts.
– The fluctuating AQI levels, particularly during late night and morning, are attributed to emissions from diesel buses operating in Anand Vihar and Kaushambi, Uttar Pradesh.
– Atishi criticized neighboring states for polluting the Yamuna River and highlighted contributions from ongoing construction projects.

2. **Government Response:**
– The Delhi government is deploying 99 inspection teams for dust control and has initiated the use of over 315 smog guns to combat pollution.
– Measures include keeping roads wet and repairing infrastructure to reduce dust and traffic congestion.

3. **Blast Near CRPF School:**
– A blast occurred outside the CRPF school in Prashant Vihar, damaging property but thankfully resulting in no injuries.
– Police and forensic teams are investigating the cause of the explosion, which some eyewitnesses suggest might be a cylinder blast or building collapse.

4. **Political Developments:**
– Security has been heightened outside Ladakh Bhawan due to protests by climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and supporters.
– The Delhi High Court lifted prohibitory orders on public assembly, leading to the release of Wangchuk and others.

5. **Weather Forecast:**
– The India Meteorological Department forecasts a further deterioration of air quality in the national capital, with the average AQI expected to worsen in the next two days.

6. **Maharashtra Congress Discussions:**
– Ahead of the upcoming state assembly elections, Maharashtra Congress leaders are finalizing party candidates and addressing seat-sharing disputes within the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition.

This summary encapsulates the key points from the news article regarding air quality issues, a blast incident, political updates, and governmental responses in Delhi.

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