In response to the deteriorating air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has enforced Stage 4 measures of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR, beginning Monday at 8 AM. This decision comes as the area recorded an alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) of 457, categorizing it as “severe plus,” which poses substantial health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Key Restrictions Under GRAP Stage 4
To address the escalating pollution levels, the following measures have been put in place:
- Restrictions on Diesel Vehicles:
- Diesel-run medium and heavy goods vehicles (MGVs and HGVs) registered in Delhi that are BS-IV or below are banned from operating, except for those carrying essential goods.
- Non-essential light commercial vehicles (LCVs) from outside Delhi are prohibited from entering unless they run on cleaner fuels such as CNG, BS-VI diesel, or are electric vehicles.
- Trucks transporting non-essential items are barred from entering Delhi unless they operate on LNG, CNG, or BS-VI diesel.
- Temporary Halt on Construction:
- A temporary suspension of construction activities for public projects has been initiated to further mitigate emissions.
- School and Workplace Adjustments:
- Physical classes for students in grades 6 to 9 and class 11 will be transitioned to online modes. Classes for grades 10 and 12 will continue in person.
- Offices in the National Capital Region (NCR) are encouraged to operate at 50% capacity, with the remaining workforce allowed to work from home.
Public Health and Safety Recommendations
In light of the severe air quality conditions, authorities have recommended additional measures for public health and safety:
- Citizens, particularly children, the elderly, and those with existing health conditions (such as respiratory or cardiovascular issues), are urged to limit outdoor activities and stay indoors as much as possible.
- State governments might consider implementing further emergency measures, including the closure of colleges and non-essential commercial activities. There may also be discussions about adopting an odd-even vehicle registration system.
Summary of Current Air Quality Situation
According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), 32 out of 34 monitoring stations in Delhi reported “severe” pollution levels exceeding 400. Factors contributing to the current situation include vehicle emissions, which accounted for approximately 15.8% of pollution on a recent Sunday, as well as stubble burning, which represented 25% of the total pollution on the preceding Saturday. PM2.5 remains the most concerning pollutant, with fine particles that pose significant health risks.
Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) implements actions under stage-lV ('Severe+' Air Quality) of revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR in addition to the Stage-I, II and III actions already in force, from 8 A.M. of 18th November 2024 in the NCR.
— ANI (@ANI) November 17, 2024
NCR… pic.twitter.com/QFFqanqO8y
Conclusion
The implementation of GRAP Stage 4 reflects the urgent need to address the severe air quality crisis in Delhi-NCR. Continued public cooperation and adherence to these measures are vital for improving the air quality and ensuring public health and safety during this critical period.
