CAQM invokes GRAP-III in Delhi-NCR as AQI reaches 382
The Commission for Air Quality Management implemented Stage III restrictions as a precautionary measure ahead of Diwali celebrations.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) on Friday. This move follows the city's average Air Quality Index (AQI) rising to 382, which falls into the 'very poor' category, according to reports from Mint, Moneycontrol, and Hindustan Times.
The CAQM implemented the measures as a precautionary step before Diwali, as forecasts suggest pollution levels could turn 'severe' from Saturday. While Stage III is typically triggered when the AQI reaches the 401-450 'severe' range, several monitoring stations have already recorded levels above 400.
Under the Stage III restrictions, non-essential construction and demolition activities are banned, and stone crushers and mining operations face closure or restrictions. There are also bans on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles. Essential infrastructure projects may continue if they follow prescribed dust-control measures.
Education authorities have been directed to move classes for students up to Class 5 in Delhi and specific NCR districts to a hybrid mode. These districts include Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddha Nagar. The CAQM has also advised that offices may consider work-from-home or hybrid arrangements.
Public transport services, including the Metro and buses, will continue to operate. Authorities may increase the frequency of these services to encourage use over private vehicles. The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi predicts the AQI is likely to remain in the 'severe' category between November 7 and 9.