GRAP 3 Curbs Reimposed in Delhi-NCR as Air Quality Worsens

GRAP 3 Curbs Reimposed in Delhi-NCR: With Delhi's air quality descending into the "severe category," the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has reimposed Stage-III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) from Wednesday to curb rising pollution levels.

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Delhi Air Quality deteriorates

The Delhi Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 276 on January 28 but escalated to 365 at 4:00 PM, Wednesday, mainly because of calm winds, smoggy conditions, very low mixing heights, and poor dispersion of pollutants. The poor air quality situation forced authorities to put back such stringent pollution control measures.

Restrictions imposed under GRAP Stage-III

These are the GRAP Stage-III restrictions that have been implemented now:

• Prohibition on construction and demolition activities so as to control dust pollution.
• Suspension of all non-essential mining activities in Delhi-NCR.
• Restrictions on interstate buses besides electric, non-CNG, and non-BS-VI diesel.
• Schools in Delhi-NCR should be closed for grades 5 and lower (suggested).
• Prohibition on BS-III petrol vehicles and BS-IV diesel vehicles.
• Entry of commercial vehicles into Delhi was prohibited.

Authorities have mentioned that implementation of Stage I, II, and III measures will continue actively and be reviewed and monitored so that air quality does not deteriorate further.

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Rain reducing the air quality problems

Meanwhile, in the first week of February, rainfall was forecasted by the IMD in Delhi-NCR, rain which would help ameliorate air quality.

As per the forecast, two western disturbances are expected to affect North India—the first one by January 29 and the second by February 1. These systems are likely to cause rains and squalls in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and western UP during the period ranging between January 30 to February 1.

Vigilance is still on with the authorities advising residents to adhere to pollution precautions and limit outdoor activities until the air quality improves.

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