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Delhi-NCR has imposed GRAP-3 restrictions ahead of Diwali after the AQI reached 382 (Img: Pinterest)
New Delhi: Air quality in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) has deteriorated ahead of Diwali, prompting the implementation of Stage III restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
Previously on November 2, when the AQI reached 382, Stage II restrictions were imposed in Delhi and the NCR.
After Delhi's average Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 382 on Thursday, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) implemented Stage-III restrictions across the entire NCR with immediate effect as a precautionary measure. At this level, air quality falls into the very poor category.
GRAP is a set of emergency measures designed to control air pollution in Delhi NCR. As air quality worsens, the restrictions become increasingly stringent. Mo It consists of four stages, each corresponding to a specific level of pollution. Stage-I is implemented when air quality is poor (AQI 201–300). Stage-II is implemented when air quality becomes very poor (AQI 301–400). Stage-III is implemented when air quality reaches the severe level (AQI 401–450). Moreover, StagIV is implemented when air quality enters the severe plus category (AQI above 450).
Restrictions under GRAP III include a complete ban on non essential construction and demolition activities. This encompasses tasks such as piling, excavation and the operation of ready mix concrete (RMC) plants in open areas.
The operation of BS 3 petrol and BS 4 diesel four wheeled vehicles is prohibited on the roads of Delhi and the surrounding NCR districts. Furthermore, diesel buses arriving from other states are barred from entering or operating within the capital.
These restrictions also extend to the transportation of construction materials , particularly on unpaved roads. Additionally, directives have been issued to shut down stone crushers, mining operations and hot mix plants that do not utilize clean fuel. The use of diesel generator sets is also prohibited.
To mitigate vehicular pollution, private companies are advised to adopt work from home or hybrid working models. Moreover, to protect young children from toxic air, schools up to class 5 will remain closed, and classes will be conducted online.
