The Centre’s panel on Delhi-NCR’s air quality reinstated stage 3 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) due to a sharp rise in pollution levels caused by unfavourable meteorological conditions, an official order said on Thursday.
Delhi’s air quality showed a worsening trend, with the 24-hour average air quality index (AQI) reaching 357 at 4 pm, up from 297 on Wednesday, due to “calm winds and foggy conditions.”
The Commission for Air Quality Management, tasked with formulating strategies to reduce air pollution in Delhi-NCR, instructed authorities to immediately enforce the measures outlined under stage 3 to prevent further deterioration of air quality.
GRAP Stage 3, which had been lifted on Sunday, includes a ban on non-essential construction work.
Under Stage 3, schools up to grade V must shift to hybrid learning, with parents and students having the option to opt for online education where available.
Stage 3 also imposes restrictions on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel cars (4-wheelers) in Delhi and the surrounding NCR districts, with exemptions for individuals with disabilities.
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In addition, Stage 3 bans non-essential diesel-operated medium goods vehicles that do not meet BS-IV or newer standards in Delhi.
During winter, Delhi-NCR enforces GRAP restrictions, which classify air quality into four categories: Stage I (Poor, AQI 201-300), Stage II (Very Poor, AQI 301-400), Stage III (Severe, AQI 401-450), and Stage IV (Severe Plus, AQI above 450).
Hazardous air quality levels in Delhi-NCR during the winter months are exacerbated by unfavourable weather, vehicle emissions, paddy-straw burning, firecrackers, and other local pollution sources.
Doctors warn that breathing in Delhi’s polluted air is comparable to smoking around 10 cigarettes a day.
(With inputs from PTI)
