Fog Makes Taj Mahal Hard to See
In Agra, India, a thick fog covered the famous Taj Mahal, making it difficult for visitors to see. The air quality in the city was recorded as ‘moderate’ with a measurement of 148 by the Central Pollution Control Board. Visitors from nearby cities like Gurgaon and Delhi expressed disappointment as the monument was barely visible compared to previous visits.
Delhi’s Response to Air Pollution
In response to worsening air quality, Delhi has banned certain older vehicles. The government has prohibited BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers from operating in the city under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-III). Violators face a fine of Rs 20,000 under the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988. This measure aims to prevent further air quality deterioration after Delhi’s air quality index reached the severe category.
Doubts Revealed
Fog -: Fog is like a thick cloud that is close to the ground. It makes it hard to see things clearly, like when you wear glasses and they get foggy.
Taj Mahal -: The Taj Mahal is a famous white marble building in Agra, India. It was built a long time ago by an emperor in memory of his wife and is one of the most beautiful buildings in the world.
BS-III and BS-IV vehicles -: BS-III and BS-IV are standards for how much pollution a vehicle can produce. BS-III is older and more polluting than BS-IV, which is a bit cleaner.
Air quality measurement -: Air quality measurement tells us how clean or dirty the air is. A number like 148 means the air is not very clean, but not the worst either.
Graded Response Action Plan -: The Graded Response Action Plan is a set of rules to help reduce air pollution in Delhi. It includes actions like banning certain vehicles when pollution gets really bad.
Rs 20,000 fine -: A Rs 20,000 fine is a penalty or money you have to pay if you break the rules, like driving an old vehicle that pollutes too much.
