New Delhi, Nov. 2 -- The national capital has put a halt to construction and demolition activities for 15 days, from November 5 to 20, as part of a slew of measures to tackle the city's air pollution.

"A complete halt to construction and demolition activities across the NCR region from November 5 to November 20 in a bid to control pollution," Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav had announced on Friday.

Air pollution in Delhi reaches dangerous levels during the winter months, when cooler air traps pollutants close to the ground.

"Early implementation of these stringent measures would help prevent the city's air from reaching hazardous levels during winter," Yadav had told reporters.

Yadav also said the authorities would take pro...