CAQM invokes GRAP-3 in Delhi-NCR as pollution levels rise before Diwali
The Commission for Air Quality Management has implemented Stage III restrictions on construction, vehicles, and industrial operations to combat deteriorating air quality.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR on Friday, November 6. According to Mint, the decision was a precautionary measure taken as Delhi’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 382, which falls in the ‘very poor’ category, though several monitoring stations recorded ‘severe’ readings.
The move introduces strict curbs on non-essential construction and demolition activities, including excavation, drilling, and road repairs. Mint reported that the movement of dust-generating materials like cement and sand is also restricted. Additionally, stone crushers, mining operations, and hot-mix plants not using approved clean fuels must remain shut.
Vehicle restrictions have been implemented for BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel or older light motor vehicles in Delhi and five high-density NCR districts, including Gurugram, Faridabad, Sonipat, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddha Nagar. According to The Hindu, diesel-operated BS-IV and below medium goods vehicles registered outside Delhi are not permitted to enter the capital.
The Hindu also noted that the use of coal and wood for heating is prohibited. Diesel generator sets are banned except for those providing essential and emergency services.
Regarding education, schools up to Class 5 in Delhi and several NCR districts must conduct classes in hybrid mode, allowing for online or physical attendance. State and Delhi governments may also decide on 50 per cent staff presence in offices, while private offices have been advised to consider work-from-home or hybrid arrangements.