The Air Quality Management Commission for NCR and nearby regions has issued a legal directive for the immediate enforcement of the updated Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) schedule whenever GRAP orders are activated.
The Sub-Committee established to initiate measures under the GRAP, during its meeting on November 2, 2023, conducted a thorough assessment of the air quality situation in the area. This assessment also considered the meteorological forecasts and air quality index data provided by IMD/IITM.
On Thursday, due to the deterioration of air quality in the national capital and its neighboring regions, Delhi initiated the enforcement of GRAP III. With the introduction of GRAP Stage III, the NCR and GNCTD state governments could potentially opt to suspend in-person classes for students up to Class V in schools. The Air Quality Index (AQI) for Delhi on Thursday evening registered at 402, placing it within the ‘Severe’ category (ranging from 401 to 450).
Considering the ongoing air quality situation and with the aim of averting any further decline in air quality, the sub-committee has determined that all measures outlined in Stage III of the GRAP, designed for ‘Severe’ Air Quality (Delhi AQI ranging between 401-450), should be promptly and diligently put into action by all relevant agencies in the NCR.
These actions should be implemented immediately, in addition to the measures already in place in Stage I and II. Increase the regularity of mechanized or vacuum-based road sweeping.
Guarantee daily water sprinkling combined with dust suppressants before the busiest traffic periods, both on roads and in critical areas such as heavily trafficked routes.
Construction work in Delhi-NCR as a thick layer of pungent haze obscured the national capital’s skyline, with pollution levels entering the “severe” zone for the first time this season.
