Delhi’s Air Quality Improves: Stage-IV Restrictions Lifted
The air quality in Delhi has shown a significant improvement, prompting authorities to revoke the harshest restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This decision follows directions from the Supreme Court and aims to balance public health concerns with economic considerations.
Delhi’s Air Quality Deteriorates, Commission Invokes Emergency Measures
Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has been steadily rising, reaching a concerning 379 by 4 PM on December 16, 2024. Forecasts predict the AQI to remain in the “Very Poor” to “Severe” category in the coming days due to unfavorable weather conditions. This has prompted the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR and Adjoining Areas to invoke emergency measures under Stage-III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
New Regulations for Green Energy Open Access in Delhi
The Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) has issued new regulations to facilitate the adoption of green energy and promote sustainable practices in the National Capital Territory of Delhi. These regulations outline the framework for Green Energy Open Access, allowing consumers to procure electricity from renewable energy sources.
Delhi, Telangana, Karnataka and Gujarat Governments Announce Holidays for 2025
The Governments of Delhi, Telangana, Karnataka and Gujarat have declared the holidays that will be observed in all government offices within the respective states for the year 2025. All these lists were issued in November 2024.
Emergency Measures Implemented As Delhi’s Air Quality Plummets
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.
CAQM Reviews Implementation of GRAP to Combat Air Pollution in NCR
A review meeting was held by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to discuss the implementation of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the National Capital Region (NCR). The meeting underscored the importance of strict enforcement of GRAP measures, especially during the upcoming winter season. A press release on this meeting was issued on November 16, 2024.
CAQM Emphasizes Strict Enforcement of GRAP to Combat Air Pollution in Delhi
All relevant departments and agencies have been instructed to strictly adhere to the directions issued by the CAQM. The meeting also focused on strict discipline and measures to guard against unauthorized/ haphazard parking of private vehicles on metaled roads, markets, public spaces etc. leading to vehicular congestion and high levels of pollution, particularly in winters and called for strict action against violators including for violations of Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate regime.
Strict Enforcement of GRAP in Delhi-NCR to Combat Air Pollution
Over 7,000 Construction and Demolition (C&D) sites were inspected, leading to penalties and closures for non-compliance. Approximately 1,400 industries were inspected, and actions were taken against violators. Around 1,300 DG sets were inspected, and non-compliant units were penalized.
Delhi Breathes Uneasy As Air Quality Crisis Triggers Emergency Measures
Officials reviewed weather forecasts and air quality predictions, which indicate the “Very Poor” air quality is likely to persist for several days due to unfavorable meteorological conditions. Consequently, the Sub-Committee decided to invoke Stage-II of the revised GRAP for the entire National Capital Region (NCR). Effective October 22, 2024, a stricter set of regulations will be implemented across the NCR in addition to existing Stage-I measures.
Delhi-NCR Gears Up for Winter with Revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)
Stage II (“Very Poor” AQI) now mandates dual-fuel mode or retrofitted emission controls for larger diesel generators (62 kW – 800 kW). Stage III (“Severe” AQI) imposes a complete ban on specific dust-generating C&D activities across the entire NCR. It also restricts specified means of transportation.
