In response to the escalating AQI levels, CAQM has enforced GRAP Stage-IV restrictions across Delhi and the NCR region. These will take effect at 8 AM on Monday, November 18, 2024. As per the daily AQI bulletin, Delhi's average daily AQI was recorded at 441 at 4 PM, which further rose to 457 by 7 PM, as reported by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Consequently, Chief Minister Atishi directed that all schools, except for classes 10 and 12, conduct online classes.
The sub-committee overseeing the Graded Response Action Plan convened an emergency meeting under the aegis of the Air Quality Management Commission (CAQM) on Sunday. The meeting focused on a comprehensive assessment of the region’s air quality scenario and meteorological conditions, along with air quality index forecasts.
Online Classes to Resume in Delhi
Following the CAQM's announcement to implement GRAP-4 in Delhi-NCR, Chief Minister Atishi has directed the shutdown of all schools, excluding classes 10 and 12, transitioning to online classes until further notice.
Delhi's AQI Climbs to 452
According to data provided by IMD/IITM during the meeting, Delhi's average AQI was recorded at 441 at 4 PM, continuing to rise and reaching 452 by 7 PM.
Given the current trend of deteriorating air quality in NCR, the sub-committee has declared the imposition of GRAP Stage-IV restrictions across Delhi and NCR starting this evening, to be enforced from 8 AM Monday.
Restrictions to be Imposed
Complete restriction on truck entry into Delhi, except for LNG, CNG, electric, and BS6 diesel trucks providing essential services.
LCVs registered outside Delhi are not permitted entry unless they are electric, CNG, BS-VI, or diesel-based vehicles transporting essential goods.
Medium and heavy commercial vehicles registered in Delhi on or below BS-IV standards will not be permitted entry, apart from those transporting essential goods or services.
Construction activities related to highways, roads, flyovers, bridges, power transmission, pipelines, and telecommunications will remain suspended just like GRAP Stage-III.
State governments in Delhi and NCR to operate government, municipal, and private offices at 50% capacity, with the rest working from home.
The central government may allow its employees to work from home.
State governments might consider additional emergency measures like closing colleges, academic institutions, non-emergency commercial activities, and implementing odd-even vehicle schemes based on registration numbers.
The pollution board advises children, the elderly, and individuals with severe respiratory or cardiac conditions to avoid outdoor activities.
As per CPCB, an AQI between 0-50 is considered 'Good', 51-100 'Satisfactory', 101-200 'Moderate', 201-300 'Poor', 301-400 'Very Poor', 401-450 'Severe', and above 450 'Severe Plus'.
