The air quality in the National Capital Region (NCR) has plunged to 'Severe' levels this week, forcing the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to activate Stage III measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to counteract dangerously high pollution. Authorities have implemented stringent restrictions including an immediate ban on all non-essential construction and demolition activities, as well as a halt on the entry of polluting trucks and commercial vehicles into Delhi.
Stage III of GRAP comes into force whenever the daily average Air Quality Index (AQI) crosses 400, touching the 'Severe' category. Recent monitoring found Delhi’s AQI surging past 365, with several city monitoring stations clocking readings above 400. Under these measures:
- All non-essential building and demolition work, along with mining, is suspended.
- BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles are restricted from entry and operation within Delhi and nearby districts, impacting both public and private transportation.
- The ban also covers medium and heavy commercial vehicles, especially polluting trucks, which are no longer allowed to enter Delhi during this period.
Authorities have directed primary schools to shift to online or hybrid learning formats to protect children from the harmful effects of poor air quality, advising the suspension of physical classes up to grade 5 where feasible. Several government agencies have issued advisories for residents to minimize outdoor activities and follow self-protection guidelines laid out under Stage III.
Meteorological factors such as calm winds, increased smog, and low mixing heights are being blamed for trapping pollutants over the region, exacerbated by vehicle emissions, stubble burning, and waste incineration. Environment officials have urged all concerned states and agencies for coordinated action, including stricter enforcement of pollution control norms and adoption of cleaner technologies.
The Commission for Air Quality Management continues to monitor the situation, and further escalation to Stage IV is possible if current interventions fail to restore safe air quality. Residents are advised to stay updated and adhere strictly to official advisories.
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