Delhi’s air quality continued to deteriorate on Monday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) soaring to a hazardous 483, classified as ‘severe plus.’
The alarming rise in pollution prompted authorities to impose strict measures, including a ban on construction activities and restrictions on vehicle movement. Schools were closed, and government offices were advised to shift to remote work.
On Sunday, the Commission on Air Quality Management (CAQM) announced the enforcement of Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which came into effect on Monday, imposing stringent restrictions across the National Capital Region (NCR).
In a statement, the CAQM said that due to the deteriorating air quality, the Sub-Committee had decided to implement all actions under Stage IV of GRAP, effective from 8:00 AM on November 18, 2024.
The CAQM urged residents to stay indoors and minimize outdoor exposure, especially vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
The Stage IV response includes an 8-point action plan aimed at addressing the pollution crisis. Key measures include banning non-essential truck traffic into Delhi, except for vehicles carrying essential commodities or services. However, LNG/CNG/electric trucks and BS-VI diesel vehicles are permitted.
Light commercial vehicles (LCVs) registered outside Delhi are restricted unless powered by electric, CNG, or BS-VI diesel engines, and Delhi-registered BS-IV and below diesel-operated medium and heavy goods vehicles are prohibited, except for essential services.
The existing ban on construction and demolition activities has also been extended to public infrastructure projects like highways, roads, flyovers, and power transmission lines.
Delhi Chief Minister Atishi announced that all physical classes would be suspended, except for students in grades 10 and 12.
The worsening air quality has affected surrounding regions as well. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), most of Delhi’s 39 monitoring stations reported AQI levels exceeding 450.
In neighboring areas, Noida recorded ‘very poor’ air quality with an AQI of 384, Faridabad registered ‘poor’ air at 320, while Ghaziabad and Gurugram faced ‘severe’ conditions with AQIs of 400 and 446, respectively.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an Orange alert for dense fog, which has further reduced visibility and worsened the pollution crisis, leading to flight delays.
Environment Minister Gopal Rai is scheduled to meet departmental heads on Monday to ensure the proper implementation of GRAP-IV measures.
(with inputs from agencies)
