GRAP-3 returns to Delhi amid worsening air quality

New Delhi: Poor air quality has once again returned to Delhi. Therefore, GRAP-3 has been re-imposed in Delhi NCR on Monday (December 16). A central air quality panel made this decision following a rise in pollution levels in the national capital, with the AQI dropping back to the ‘very poor’ category, reaching 367 by 2 PM. The decision was taken after the central panel emphasized the need for strict mitigation of air pollution.

Under GRAP-3 measures, diesel goods vehicles—non-essential medium goods vehicles with BS-IV or older standards—will not be allowed to ply on Delhi roads. Additionally, non-essential diesel light commercial vehicles with BS-IV or older standards that are not registered in the national capital will be prohibited from entering Delhi.

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Persons with disabilities are exempted from the restrictions imposed on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel cars in Delhi and the districts of Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Budh Nagar under stage III.

Due to the imposition of GRAP-3, the Delhi and NCR state governments have been directed to modify the timings for public offices. The Centre may also consider such changes for central government offices in Delhi NCR. Demolition and excavation work will be halted, and schools will once again switch to online mode.

A ‘hybrid’ mode will be implemented for students up to class V in Delhi NCR schools and educational institutions. Under this mode, students and parents will have the option to choose between online and offline classes.