Delhi Air Quality ‘Severe’, GRAP-IV Curbs Back

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

1. Delhi’s air quality has again slipped into the ‘severe’ category.
2. GRAP-IV restrictions have been imposed in Delhi.
3. Construction activities and entry of non-essential trucks are banned.
4. Schools and colleges will conduct online classes.
5. Additional measures like odd-even may be considered.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

Delhi’s air quality has deteriorated once again. The air quality index (AQI) has reached the ‘severe’ category. Authorities have implemented GRAP-IV restrictions in response to the worsening pollution levels. Out of the 37 monitoring stations in Delhi, 26 recorded AQI readings above 400. The worst affected areas include Jahangirpuri (466), Anand Vihar (465), and Bawana (465). Pollution levels have spiked due to low wind speeds and declining temperatures. The minimum temperature has remained below 5 degrees Celsius for the past two days.

Several key areas, such as Rohini (462), Lajpat Nagar (461), Ashok Vihar (456), and Punjabi Bagh (452), also recorded severe AQI levels. On Monday, the AQI had dropped to the ‘very poor’ category at 306. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) had previously implemented the GRAP-III plan. The CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP convened an emergency meeting and decided to impose GRAP-IV restrictions. GRAP-IV prohibits the entry of non-essential trucks into Delhi. Exemptions are provided for essential goods and services. Delhi-registered BS-IV and below diesel vehicles are banned. Additionally, medium and heavy goods vehicles and light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi are also restricted.

Schools and colleges in Delhi and NCR are now required to conduct classes online. All construction and demolition activities are banned, including those related to public projects. Additional measures are being considered, such as closing schools and colleges, restricting non-emergency commercial activities, and implementing odd-even vehicle restrictions. The CAQM has advised the central government to consider staggered timings for offices in Delhi-NCR. The Delhi Airport issued an advisory due to low visibility conditions.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), conditions are not favorable for dispersing pollutants. The forecast includes calm winds and high humidity, which can contribute to the stagnation of pollutants. Dense to moderate fog or smog is expected on Tuesday. The Supreme Court has termed pollution a “pan-India” issue and has asked the government for a list of highly polluted cities.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

Delhi’s air quality has reached a ‘severe’ level. GRAP-IV restrictions are now in effect. Construction and non-essential trucks are banned. Schools are going online. Additional measures like odd-even are possible.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

See Full Bio