New Delhi: The Centre has reinstated Stage-IV restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR due to deteriorating air quality. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) announced that actions under both Stage-III ("Severe" Air Quality) and Stage-IV ("Severe Plus" Air Quality) of the GRAP will be enforced immediately, in addition to the measures already implemented under Stage-I and Stage-II.
“All GRAP measures will be implemented, monitored, and reviewed across NCR to prevent further decline in air quality. Agencies are instructed to intensify efforts, and citizens are urged to follow the GRAP citizen charter,” stated the CAQM.
Previously, Stage-III restrictions had been lifted on January 12 after rainfall temporarily improved Delhi’s air quality index (AQI). However, the resurgence of hazardous pollution levels has necessitated the return of stricter measures.
Under Stage-IV, all construction activities are banned, and non-essential polluting diesel trucks are prohibited from entering Delhi. Additionally, Delhi-registered BS-IV and older diesel heavy goods vehicles, except those providing essential services, are banned. Schools, except for classes 10 and 12, must shift to hybrid mode.
GRAP, designed to address severe air pollution during winters, classifies air quality into four stages: 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).
Delhi-NCR’s worsening air quality is attributed to unfavorable weather conditions, vehicular emissions, paddy stubble burning, firecracker usage, and other local pollution sources. Winter weather exacerbates pollution by trapping particulate matter close to the ground.
Authorities have intensified monitoring efforts to ensure compliance and mitigate pollution levels. Residents are encouraged to follow guidelines to contribute to improving air quality.
The situation highlights the urgency for sustained measures to address Delhi-NCR's recurring air pollution crisis.