Delhi’s air quality has taken a sharp turn for the worse, prompting emergency action from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). The Daily AQI Bulletin by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported an average AQI of 441 at 4 PM November 17, which further escalated to 457 by 7 PM.
Unfavorable Conditions Lead to Stage-IV GRAP Activation
Citing unfavorable meteorological conditions, the Sub-Committee for operationalizing the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) convened an emergency meeting. Observing the rising AQI and forecasts for further deterioration, the Sub-Committee has invoked all actions under Stage-IV of GRAP – ‘Severe+’ Air Quality, effective November 18, 2024, at 8:00 AM.
This is an escalation from the existing preventive/restrictive measures under Stage-I, Stage-II, and Stage-III of GRAP. All agencies responsible for implementing these measures have been instructed to ensure strict enforcement.
Stage-IV GRAP Measures
Entry of all trucks except those carrying essential commodities or providing essential services will be banned in Delhi. However, LNG/CNG/Electric/BS-VI diesel trucks are exempted.
Only NCR-registered EVs/CNG/BS-VI diesel LCVs, and those carrying essential commodities or providing essential services, will be permitted entry into Delhi.
A strict ban will be imposed on the plying of Delhi-registered BS-IV and below diesel-operated Medium Goods Vehicles (MGVs) and Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) except for those carrying essential commodities or providing essential services.
Construction and demolition activities, already banned under Stage-III, will extend to linear public projects like highways, roads, and flyovers.
NCR State Governments will decide on discontinuing physical classes for grades VI-IX and XI, potentially shifting to online learning. Additionally, public, municipal, and private offices may be allowed to operate with 50% staff on-site, with the remaining working from home. Central Government offices may also adopt similar work-from-home policies.
State Governments are authorized to consider further emergency measures, such as closure of colleges, educational institutions, and non-emergency commercial activities. An odd-even vehicle rationing system based on registration numbers might also be implemented.
CAQM urges citizens to adhere to the revised GRAP Citizen Charter and support the ongoing efforts to improve air quality. This includes minimizing outdoor activities for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory, cardiovascular, and other chronic illnesses.
