CAQM invokes GRAP Stage 3 in Delhi-NCR as air quality worsens
The Commission for Air Quality Management implemented stricter pollution curbs across the capital and neighbouring regions ahead of Diwali.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) on Friday. The decision follows a rise in pollution levels and forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) suggesting further deterioration during the Diwali period.
According to reports from Hindustan Times, Moneycontrol, and Business Today, Delhi's 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) was 382 on Friday, placing it in the 'very poor' category. However, several monitoring stations recorded 'severe' levels, with IIT Delhi and Rohini both reporting an AQI of 474.
Under Stage 3, non-essential construction, demolition, and mining activities are prohibited. The restrictions also include a ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers in Delhi and specified NCR districts. Additionally, stone crushers and hot-mix plants not using clean fuels must shut down.
To manage emissions, the CAQM has advised residents to use cleaner transport, avoid unnecessary trips, and use electric heaters instead of coal or wood. Authorities may also implement hybrid learning for primary school students up to Class 5 and allow offices to operate with 50 per cent of staff working from home.
The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi indicates that pollution levels are likely to remain in the 'severe' category from November 7 to November 9.