Due to slow wind speed and cold in Delhi, air pollution has taken a serious form. After the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached dangerous levels, strict restrictions have been imposed in Delhi-NCR under the fourth phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This decision has been taken by the sub-committee of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM).
50% attendance in schools, offices in hybrid mode
- Under Group-4, schools have been advised to run in hybrid mode except classes 10 and 12.
- It has been suggested to maintain 50% attendance in all offices and work from home for the rest of the employees.
Strict restrictions on trucks and vehicles
- Entry of non-essential trucks into Delhi is restricted.
- Only trucks engaged in supply of essential commodities and LNG/CNG/BS-4 diesel trucks are exempted.
- Use of BS-3 petrol and BS-4 diesel vehicles will be prohibited.
- Only electric vehicles, CNG vehicles, and BS-6 diesel vehicles are allowed.
- Light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi will also not be allowed entry.
Ban on construction and demolition activities
Under Grape-4, all construction and demolition activities have been completely stopped.
AQI at critical level
- Delhi’s average AQI was recorded at 396 at 6 pm on Wednesday, which falls in the “very poor” category.
- The Pollution Control Board estimates that AQI may soon cross the 400 mark.
- There has been a sharp increase of 111 points in AQI in the last 24 hours.
Hope for relief from rain
According to the Meteorological Department, there is a possibility of light rain in the next two days, which may lead to slight improvement in pollution levels. However, the situation is not expected to improve rapidly due to slow wind speed.
The severe air quality in Delhi-NCR has increased the concern of the people. Authorities have taken strict measures to combat pollution, but without improvements in weather conditions, major changes in the situation are difficult.
