CAQM imposes GRAP stage 3 amid worsening air quality 

New Delhi: Delhi-NCR has been struggling with poor air quality for three months. Despite efforts from the Centre and Delhi government, pollution levels still remain high around the national capital. Therefore, the Centre’s pollution control panel has decided to reinstate Stage 3 restrictions once again under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR. This decision is taken due to deteriorating air quality. The hostile weather has further deteriorated the air quality in the city.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi touched a 24-hour average of 371, marking a “very poor” category, as per a report. According to the forecasts made by the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, the air quality is likely to decline further amid fluctuating weather situations.

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Seeing the poor air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) urged authorities to impose Stage 3 restrictions in Delhi-NCR immediately, aiming to prevent further deterioration in the air quality. Under this measure, schools up to class V must shift to hybrid mode, allowing guardians to opt for online classes. Entry of BS-IV diesel cars won’t be allowed in Delhi and NCR; only disabled persons are exempted. Non-essential diesel-powered medium goods vehicles with BS-IV or earlier emission standards cannot operate in Delhi.

GRAP 3 was temporarily suspended amid improvement in air quality, but the same old story once again repeated. Therefore, authorities have urged the people to adopt eco-friendly practices during this grim situation.