New Delhi, January 3 – Delhi is once again grappling with rising pollution levels, prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to reimpose GRAP-3 restrictions. The air quality index (AQI) witnessed a sharp rise, with the AQI recorded at 371 as of 4 PM on Friday, placing it in the “very poor” category. This deterioration comes shortly after GRAP-3 and GRAP-4 restrictions were lifted in December following an improvement in air quality.
Pollution Spike Triggers Emergency Measures
Over the past 24 hours, Delhi’s air pollution levels have seen a concerning increase. With adverse weather conditions expected to further worsen the air quality, the CAQM has directed authorities in Delhi-NCR to implement GRAP-3 restrictions immediately to prevent the situation from escalating.
According to officials, these restrictions include a ban on non-essential construction activities and limitations on the use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles in Delhi-NCR, with exceptions made for vehicles used by persons with disabilities.
Impact on Daily Life
- Construction Ban: All non-essential construction and demolition activities will be halted to curb dust emissions, a major contributor to Delhi’s pollution.
- School Operations: Schools for students up to Class 5 will operate in hybrid mode, combining online and offline learning to reduce outdoor exposure for young children.
- Vehicle Restrictions: The use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles has been restricted, with exemptions for essential services and differently-abled individuals.
These measures aim to limit emissions from various sources, including vehicles, industrial operations, and construction activities.
Forecast Indicates Further Deterioration
Weather forecasts indicate that unfavorable meteorological conditions, such as low wind speed and temperature, could exacerbate the pollution levels in the coming days. Experts have warned that the stagnant air may trap pollutants closer to the surface, leading to a further decline in air quality.
Recent Developments
Just a week ago, on Friday, GRAP-3 restrictions were lifted as the air quality showed signs of improvement. However, the sudden spike in pollution levels has necessitated the reimposition of these measures. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will take additional steps if pollution levels continue to rise.
What is GRAP-3?
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a set of emergency measures implemented in Delhi-NCR to combat severe air pollution. GRAP-3 includes strict actions such as:
- Suspension of non-essential construction and demolition activities.
- Restrictions on the use of certain categories of vehicles to reduce vehicular emissions.
- Enhanced enforcement of dust control measures at construction sites.
The plan is activated based on specific air quality thresholds and is aimed at minimizing public health risks during periods of severe pollution.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
