The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has implemented Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR with immediate effect as pollution levels deteriorate in the region.
The measure was introduced less than two days before Diwali, after Delhi recorded an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 382 on Friday, November 6. The reading places the capital’s air quality in the ‘very poor’ category.
CAQM said the restrictions have been brought in as a precautionary step in view of worsening air quality across Delhi and the adjoining National Capital Region.
Under the GRAP system, an AQI between 201 and 300 is classified as ‘poor’, while readings from 301 to 400 fall under ‘very poor’. The ‘severe’ category covers AQI levels between 401 and 450, and readings above 450 are classified as ‘severe plus’.
Construction and industrial restrictions
Stage III prohibits all construction and demolition activities across Delhi-NCR. Restrictions have also been placed on the movement of certain older vehicles that generate higher levels of pollution.
The transport of construction materials, including sand and cement, on unpaved roads has been prohibited. Stone crushers, mining activities and hot-mix plants operating without clean fuel have also been directed to shut down.
The use of diesel generator sets has been banned under the latest measures, except when required for emergency and essential services.
Work-from-home advisory and school changes
Private companies have been advised to permit employees to work from home or adopt a hybrid working arrangement to help reduce vehicle-related emissions.
Schools up to Class 5 have been instructed to conduct classes online, limiting children’s exposure to polluted outdoor air.
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