delhi-ncr-enters-grap-stage-4-with-severe-plus-aqi

Delhi’s air quality has deteriorated significantly, triggering the implementation of the fourth stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), following an alarming rise in the Air Quality Index (AQI).

As of 6 am on Monday, Delhi's AQI stood at 481, placing it in the “severe plus” category, a classification indicating serious health risks for both healthy individuals and those with pre-existing conditions.

The new restrictions, aimed at curbing pollution, target various sectors contributing to the city's deteriorating air quality. Under GRAP Stage 4, diesel-run medium and heavy goods vehicles registered in Delhi (BS-IV or below) have been banned, with exceptions made for essential goods transport.

Similarly, non-essential light commercial vehicles from outside Delhi are prohibited unless they are powered by cleaner fuels, such as CNG, BS-VI diesel, or are electric vehicles.

Trucks carrying non-essential items are also restricted from entering Delhi, with the same fuel-related exceptions.

In response to the worsening air quality, the Centre's Air Quality Management (CAQM) panel has recommended adjustments to schools and workplaces.

Students in grades 6 to 9 and class 11 will shift to online classes, and offices across the National Capital Region (NCR) have been advised to operate at 50 per cent capacity, with employees working remotely.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data from 34 monitoring stations across Delhi reveals that 32 stations reported "severe" levels of pollution, with AQI readings above 400.

AQI readings between 401 and 450 are classified as “severe,” while anything above 450 is deemed “severe plus.”

The primary pollutant, PM2.5, remains a significant health concern, as these fine particles penetrate deep into the lungs.

On Sunday, vehicles contributed to 15.8 per cent of Delhi’s air pollution, while stubble burning accounted for 25 per cent of the total pollution on Saturday.

These two factors, combined with adverse weather conditions, have exacerbated the city’s air quality crisis, leading to the heightened measures.

Authorities continue to urge residents to limit outdoor activities and take necessary precautions, particularly those with respiratory conditions, as the city faces its worst air pollution in recent times.