Sun Nov 17 19:28:45 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Chokes Under Severe Air Pollution; Schools Closed, GRAP-4 Implemented

**New Delhi, November 17, 2024** – Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) are grappling with a severe air pollution crisis, prompting the implementation of GRAP-4, a stricter set of air quality management measures, starting Monday morning at 8 AM. The move follows a drastic deterioration in air quality, with Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching a concerning 441 on Sunday, categorized as “severe.” This makes Delhi the second most polluted city in the country. Neighboring areas also experienced severely polluted air, with Bahadurgarh, Haryana recording the highest AQI at 445.

In response to the hazardous air quality, the Delhi government announced the closure of all schools up to the 11th grade, with only 10th and 12th-grade students allowed to attend classes. Similar school closures were implemented in areas like Rohtak.

The worsening air quality has been attributed to a thick blanket of smog covering the region, turning the NCR into what many are calling a “gas chamber.” The CAQM’s GRAP-4 restrictions will impose further limitations on various activities to curb pollution.

Other news highlights include:

* **Support Withdrawn in Manipur:** The NPP party has withdrawn its support from the Manipur government, leading the Congress to declare the BJP’s position as weakened.
* **PM Modi’s Visit to Nigeria:** Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm welcome from the Indian community in Abuja, Nigeria.
* **Concerns over Fake News:** Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw expressed concerns about the spread of fake news and the challenges posed by digital platforms to traditional media.
* **Israel’s Retaliation:** Israel retaliated for an attack on Netanyahu’s home, killing Hezbollah’s chief spokesman.
* **Russia’s Attack on Ukraine:** Russia launched a massive missile and drone attack on Ukraine’s power grid.
* **Bollywood Updates:** News on the release of “Pushpa 2,” the box-office performance of other films, and updates on television shows like “Anupamaa” were also reported.

This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as they become available.

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