Delhi Enforces Stage-III of GRAP As Air Quality Plummets
Sub-Committee has decided to re-invoke all actions under Stage-III of GRAP. This is in addition to the restrictive measures already in force under Stage-I and Stage-II of GRAP across the National Capital Region (NCR). The Sub-Committee emphasizes the importance of collective efforts to mitigate the impact of deteriorating air quality and appeals to citizens to adopt cleaner commuting options, work from home where possible, and minimize activities contributing to pollution.
Air Quality Report for NCR Cities/Towns
The Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) has published the Air Quality Report for NCR Cities/Towns. This report was generated for December 17, 2023 at 4 PM. The latest Air Quality Index (AQI) readings for various cities and towns have been released indicating a diverse range of air quality conditions.
Government Initiates Study to Assess Air Pollution’s Impact on Health
The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has sanctioned projects aimed at assessing the impact of air pollution on human health in 20 selected cities across the country under the National Environmental Health Profile Study. The study is a comprehensive evaluation of environmental factors influencing public health, including air pollution.
Commission for Air Quality Management Revokes GRAP Stage-III Actions Following Improved Air Quality
While actions under Stages I and II of GRAP will continue to be invoked, the Sub-Committee emphasized the need for strict vigilance and intensified measures to prevent the air quality from slipping into the ‘severe’ category, obviating the need for re-imposition of Stage-III actions in the NCR.
New Powers Conferred for Elevator Safety in Delhi
The delegation of powers to these officials reflects a proactive approach by the authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents in Delhi. Elevator safety is a critical aspect of urban infrastructure, and this measure is expected to contribute to a more robust and effective regulatory mechanism for elevators across the National Capital Territory.
83 more Delhi shops, commercial establishments allowed to operate 24×7
In accordance with the Delhi Shops and Establishment Act, 83 individuals were granted approval to run shops round the clock. The government will actively monitor these shops and commercial establishments to ensure that they are following the rules and regulations, and appropriate action will be taken against any violations.
CAQM implements Stage IV of Graded Response Action Plan
Citizens have been urged to follow the citizen charter and cooperate in implementing the GRAP measures to sustain and improve air quality in the region. Special consideration is advised for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory, cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, or other chronic diseases to minimize outdoor activities and stay indoors as much as possible.
Urgent Actions Taken to Address Deteriorating Air Quality in Delhi-NCR Region
Citizens are urged to follow the GRAP measures and actively participate in maintaining and improving air quality in the region. Recommendations include using sustainable transportation options like cycling, carpooling, and public transport, working from home if possible, refraining from burning coal and wood for heating, and combining errands to reduce trips.
Central Government makes Key Amendments to Air Quality Management Commission
The amendments reflect the Central Government’s commitment to strengthening the Commission for Air Quality Management in the NCR and adjoining areas, which plays a crucial role in coordinating efforts to combat air pollution and improve air quality in a region that has often faced severe air quality challenges.
Delhi Government issues Holiday List for 2024 for Government Offices
The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi has issued a notification declaring the list of holidays for all government offices in 2024. The government has also listed restricted holidays in 2024. It states that an employee is entitled to avail himself/herself any of two holidays of the restricted holidays as additional holidays.
