The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated Stage-IV (Severe+) restrictions under the revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR, effective from 8 AM on Monday. This decision aims to address the alarming deterioration of air quality in the region.
Delhi’s daily average Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded a hazardous 441, rising further to 457 by 7 PM on November 17.
Emergency Measures Announced
In an urgent GRAP sub-committee meeting held on November 17, officials assessed current air quality data, weather patterns, and projections from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). Based on these findings, the committee escalated to Stage-IV restrictions after implementing Stage-I, Stage-II, and Stage-III measures on October 14, October 21, and November 14, respectively.
Key measures under GRAP Stage-IV include a ban on truck entry into Delhi (except for essential services), and a temporary halt on construction at public projects, including highways, roads, and flyovers.
Schools Move Online
Delhi Chief Minister Atishi announced via X (formerly Twitter) that physical classes for all students, except those in Classes 10 and 12, will be suspended starting Monday. All schools will conduct online classes until further notice.
Coordination Meeting Scheduled
To ensure effective implementation of GRAP Stage-IV, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai has called for a meeting with Heads of Departments (HoDs) from all concerned agencies on Monday at 12 PM at the Delhi Secretariat.
GRAP Stage-IV Restrictions in Delhi-NCR
Transportation Restrictions:
Ban on Truck Entry: All truck traffic into Delhi is halted, except for those carrying essential goods or services. Trucks running on LNG, CNG, electric power, or BS-VI diesel are permitted.
Restrictions on LCVs: Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) from outside Delhi, except those running on EVs, CNG, or BS-VI diesel, are banned unless carrying essential goods.
Diesel Vehicle Ban: Strict prohibition on Delhi-registered BS-IV or lower diesel-operated Medium Goods Vehicles (MGVs) and Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs), except for essential services.
Construction and Demolition Ban:
All construction and demolition activities are prohibited, including work on linear public projects such as highways, roads, flyovers, power transmission, pipelines, and telecommunication infrastructure.
Public Health and Office Measures:
School Safety: NCR state governments and GNCTD may extend online learning to students in Classes VI-IX and XI, if needed.
Workplace Adjustments: NCR governments and GNCTD are encouraged to mandate 50% attendance in public, municipal, and private offices, with the remaining employees working from home. The central government may consider similar measures.
College and Activity Closures: State governments may implement emergency measures, such as closing colleges, shutting non-essential commercial activities, and introducing an odd-even vehicle policy.
Health Advisory: Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses, are advised to stay indoors and minimize outdoor activities.
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Citizen Responsibilities:
Authorities urged residents to adhere to the citizen charter and GRAP measures to support the fight against air pollution. Guidelines from Stages I, II, and III remain applicable. Citizens are advised to contribute actively to sustaining and improving air quality in the region.
