Once again, the air pollution levels in Delhi and NCR have reached alarming heights. After the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded a staggering 441, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) implemented Stage-4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on Saturday evening. This decisive step was taken in response to the continual deterioration of air quality trends.
As per the press update from CAQM, Delhi's AQI was recorded at 431 at 4 PM, skyrocketing to 441 within just two hours. The Commission highlighted that the rapid escalation in pollution is attributable to a combination of very low wind speeds, atmospheric stagnation, adverse weather conditions, and limited dispersion of pollutants. Consequently, GRAP-4's full provisions have been enforced with immediate effect across the NCR.
With the enforcement of GRAP-4, strict measures have been enacted in the capital and its adjoining districts. A complete halt has been placed on all forms of construction activities in Delhi and NCR. Stone crusher units are ordered shut throughout the NCR. Mining activities and related operations have also been banned.
Furthermore, severe restrictions have been placed on the usage of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles in Delhi, Gurgaon, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddha Nagar. Schools up to Grade 5 will now operate in a hybrid mode (online + offline) to protect young children from toxic air exposure.
CAQM has directed pollution control boards and relevant agencies in Delhi-NCR to hasten preventive measures to curb pollution, preventing any further deterioration. All restrictions under GRAP’s Stages 1, 2, and 3 will continue to be enforced along with GRAP-4.
It is noteworthy that GRAP-4 is typically implemented for air quality rated as 'Severe+'. Although the standard procedure calls for using this stage when AQI exceeds 450, considering the current trends and rapidly worsening situation, CAQM has taken this precautionary step.
