NEW DELHI: The Centre’s Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) reinstated GRAP 3 restrictions in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) on Wednesday after air quality worsened.
In a statement, the CAQM explained that, in line with directives from the Supreme Court, the sub-committee on GRAP decided to activate all actions under Stage III (severe air quality) of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). These measures will be enforced immediately, alongside the Stage-I and II actions that are already in place.
Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI), which was recorded at 276 on January 28, saw a significant increase, climbing to 365 by 4:00 pm today. This sharp rise can be attributed to a combination of factors, including variable wind directions, calm winds, and a smoggy atmosphere.
With GRAP-3 now in effect, several measures will be implemented to curb air pollution in Delhi-NCR. Construction and demolition activities will be halted, non-essential mining operations will be suspended, and interstate buses that are non-electric, non-CNG, or non-BS-VI diesel will be restricted. Additionally, schools up to Class 5 are advised to close, and the use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers will be banned from today. Commercial vehicles will also be prohibited from entering the national capital.
According to an official notice, actions under Stages I, II, and III will be enforced, regularly reviewed, and monitored to prevent further deterioration of air quality.
However, the weather forecast predicts that Delhi and its surrounding areas may experience rain at the beginning of February. Two consecutive western disturbances are expected to arrive in late January, bringing a spell of rain that is anticipated to help improve air quality in the region.
The statement noted that the sub-committee will closely monitor the air quality situation and make ongoing assessments to determine further actions, based on air quality levels and forecasts provided by the IMD/IITM.
As per CAQM guidelines, governments in Delhi and the NCR are required to conduct hybrid school classes (both in-person and online) for children up to fifth grade, where online classes are feasible. The CAQM also suggested that NCR states consider implementing hybrid classes for students up to Class V in other regions of NCR.