Delhi to Impose Stricter Pollution Controls from Tomorrow as Air Quality Hits ‘Severe+’

As Delhi’s air quality worsens, reaching a “severe+” level for the first time this season, the Centre’s air quality panel announced more stringent measures for the Delhi-NCR region under Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). These new restrictions will take effect at 8 AM on Monday, November 18, 2024.

The new curbs include a ban on truck entry into the city, with exceptions only for those carrying essential goods or operating on clean fuels. Additionally, construction work at public projects will be temporarily halted to reduce pollution.

According to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 441 (classified as “Severe”) at 4:00 PM on Sunday. By 7:00 PM, the AQI had climbed further, reaching 457, indicating a shift into the “Severe+” category.

In addition to truck restrictions, the new order prohibits non-essential light commercial vehicles from entering Delhi, particularly those registered outside the city. However, Electric Vehicles (EVs), as well as CNG and BS-VI diesel vehicles, are exempted from the ban.

The panel also announced a ban on Delhi-registered BS-IV or older diesel medium and heavy goods vehicles, unless they are used for essential services.

As the smog continues to envelop the city, air quality has remained a major concern, with delays in public transport and widespread health warnings for residents.