Delhi govt orders crackdown on encroachments adding to traffic, pollution

New Delhi, Sep 19 (UNI) The Delhi government has directed agencies to step up action against illegal encroachments on roads and public spaces, saying such obstructions contribute to traffic congestion and air pollution by slowing vehicular movement and increasing idling, officials said on Saturday. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa issued the directions during review meetings for East, North-East, South-East and South districts as part of the government's preparations for the winter pollution season, the department said in a statement. The minister asked district administrations to identify pollution hotspots using data from AQI monitoring stations and prepare area-specific action plans. Officials…