Air Quality Worsens In Delhi: Stage-III Measures Enforced
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi crossed the 350 mark, reaching 357 at 4 PM, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The Sub-Committee on the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked Stage-III measures to address the worsening air quality across the National Capital Region (NCR). The Sub-Committee convened a meeting to review the air quality scenario and forecasts provided by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). It noted that the AQI, which stood at 297 on January 8, exhibited a sharp rise to 357 on January 9 due to calm winds and foggy conditions. The forecasts also indicate that the adverse air quality is likely to persist for several days due to unfavorable meteorological conditions. Stage-III of GRAP, which deals with "severe" air quality levels, has been enforced with immediate effect. The measures include restrictions on dust-generating construction and demolition activities, suspension of mining operations, and the closure of stone crushers. Additional vehicle restrictions have also been imposed, including a ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel light motor vehicles in Delhi and key NCR districts, such as Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Budh Nagar. Diesel medium goods vehicles meeting BS-IV standards or below are barred from plying in Delhi unless involved in essential services, and BS-IV and below diesel-operated light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi are restricted from entering the city except for essential services. The measures also mandate hybrid learning modes for students up to Class V in Delhi and key NCR districts, combining physical and online classes. Public offices and municipal bodies in Delhi and these districts will operate with staggered timings, with a decision on similar measures for central government offices expected soon. The CAQM has urged citizens to adopt eco-friendly practices, reduce vehicular use, and comply with the GRAP measures to prevent further deterioration of air quality. The situation will continue to be monitored closely.
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