The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) reimposed Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR on Friday (January 3) in response to rising pollution levels. Dense fog blanketed Delhi for the second consecutive morning, reducing visibility to zero in multiple areas and disrupting transportation.
According to the Meteorological Department, visibility dropped to zero at Palam from 11:30 pm on Friday and at Safdarjung from 12:30 am on Saturday. The fog persisted due to calm surface winds, which hindered its dissipation. Adding to the challenges, the air quality in the national capital remained in the ‘very poor’ category. The Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 380 at 9 am, as per data from the Central Pollution Control Board.
Forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology suggest that the air quality is likely to worsen further. To curb the deteriorating conditions, CAQM instructed authorities in Delhi-NCR to implement the restrictions outlined under GRAP Stage III immediately.
What’s allowed, what’s not under GRAP stage III
- Construction and Demolition Ban: All non-essential construction and demolition activities are prohibited.
- Education Measures: Classes up to grade V must transition to a hybrid mode, allowing parents and students to opt for online learning.
- Vehicle Restrictions: The use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel cars (4-wheelers) is restricted in Delhi and neighboring NCR districts, with exemptions for persons with disabilities.
- Goods Vehicle Restrictions: Non-essential diesel-powered medium goods vehicles with BS-IV or older standards are banned from operating in Delhi.
Stage III restrictions had been lifted just last week but were reinstated due to the rapidly deteriorating air quality in the region.
