New Delhi: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Saturday, January 4, reinstated Stage 3 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR as air pollution levels worsened. The move comes after the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 371, falling into the ‘very poor’ category, and forecasts indicated further deterioration due to unfavorable weather conditions.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, the city’s air quality is expected to decline further, driven by stagnant winds and low temperatures that trap pollutants near the ground.
Key Measures Under GRAP Stage 3:
Construction Ban: Non-essential construction and demolition activities are prohibited to curb dust pollution.
Vehicle Restrictions: Use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles (4-wheelers) is banned in Delhi and nearby NCR districts, with exemptions for persons with disabilities.
Goods Vehicle Ban: Non-essential medium and heavy diesel vehicles, with BS-IV or older emission standards, are restricted in the region.
Education Adjustments: Schools for students up to Grade V are required to shift to hybrid modes of learning, allowing parents and students to opt for online classes.
Worsening Air Quality Trends
Delhi’s air pollution in 2024 showed an overall worsening trend compared to 2023, despite being the second-best year since 2018 in terms of average AQI. Experts attribute this to a combination of increased emissions and unfavorable meteorological factors.
Impact on Daily Life
The return of GRAP Stage 3 curbs has disrupted activities across sectors, including construction and transport, affecting businesses and commuters. The move, however, is deemed essential to prevent a public health emergency.
Authorities have urged residents to adopt measures such as carpooling, reducing outdoor activities, and using air purifiers at home to mitigate health risks. Meanwhile, enforcement agencies are monitoring compliance with the restrictions to ensure their effectiveness in curbing pollution.
The government continues to explore long-term solutions to address the recurring issue of poor air quality in Delhi-NCR, emphasizing the need for collective action to tackle the crisis.
