CAQM invokes GRAP Stage III in Delhi-NCR as pollution rises
The Commission for Air Quality Management implemented the measures as the air quality index in Delhi approached the severe category.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Friday, November 6, enforced Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the National Capital Region (NCR) as a precautionary measure. According to reports from The Federal and ThePrint, the move follows Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 382, which falls in the 'very poor' category.
The nine-point action plan includes restrictions on various activities. Prohibited tasks involve dust-generating construction and demolition work such as brickwork, excavation, piling, road construction, painting, and polishing. The movement of construction materials on unpaved roads is also barred, and stone crushers and mining activities must remain shut.
Vehicle restrictions have been directed for BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers in Delhi and the districts of Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddha Nagar. In Delhi, certain BS-IV diesel medium goods vehicles and light commercial vehicles registered outside the city are also covered.
The plan allows for hybrid learning for students up to Class V where online teaching is possible. State and Delhi governments may also decide to have public, municipal, and private offices operate with 50 per cent staff on-site while others work from home. The Central Government will make a separate decision for its staff.
The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) forecast suggests air quality is likely to reach the 'severe' category between November 7 and 9. The Deccan Herald reported that Ballabgarh recorded an AQI of 397 on November 6 at 4 pm.