GRAP 3 curbs back in Delhi-NCR as AQI continues to remain in severe category

New Delhi: The commission for air quality management reinstated stage 3 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan on Thursday due to deteriorating air quality in Delhi-NCR, as confirmed by an official directive. The capital's air quality showed a concerning upward trend, with the 24-hour average AQI reaching 357 at 4 pm, an increase from 297 the previous day, attributed to stagnant winds and foggy weather conditions.

The regulatory body, tasked with developing strategies to combat air pollution in Delhi-NCR, has instructed regional authorities to promptly enforce stage 3 measures to prevent further air quality deterioration.

The recently lifted stage 3 measures, which were suspended on Sunday, prohibit non-essential construction activities.

Educational institutions must implement hybrid learning for students up to grade V under these measures, with families having the choice to opt for online classes where feasible.

The restrictions include a ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers in Delhi and surrounding NCR areas, with exemptions for differently-abled individuals.

Additionally, non-essential diesel-powered medium goods vehicles meeting BS-IV or lower emission standards are prohibited in Delhi.

The Delhi-NCR region implements GRAP during winter months, with air quality classified into four categories: stage I (Poor, AQI 201-300), stage II (Very Poor, AQI 301-400), stage III (Severe, AQI 401-450), and stage IV (Severe Plus, AQI above 450).

Poor weather conditions, coupled with vehicular emissions, agricultural waste burning, firework emissions, and various local pollution sources contribute to dangerous air quality levels in Delhi-NCR during winter months.

Healthcare professionals indicate that exposure to Delhi's contaminated air is comparable to consuming ten cigarettes daily.