Delhi Chokes as AQI Hits 457: See What's Allowed and What's Not Under GRAP Stage-IV Restrictions

On November 17, 2024, Delhi's air quality reached alarming levels, with the daily average Air Quality Index (AQI) measuring 441 at 4 PM and rising to 457 by 7 PM, according to the Central Pollution Control Board's (CPCB) Daily AQI Bulletin. This increase in AQI, which surpassed the "Severe+" threshold of 450, prompted the Sub-Committee to implement Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) starting at 8 AM on November 18, 2024.

Due to deteriorating air quality in NCR and adjoining areas, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) called an urgent meeting of its sub-committee yesterday to assess the situation. During the meeting, the Sub-Committee analyzed AQI trends and meteorological forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).

In view of the severe worsening of air quality due to unfavourable weather and climatic conditions, the committee activated Stage-IV measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), categorized as “Severe+”. These measures came into effect in the National Capital Region (NCR) at 8 am on November 18, 2024.

Stage-IV GRAP Measures 

Stage-IV, the most stringent level of GRAP, mandates an 8-point action plan aimed at curbing pollution and preventing further degradation of air quality. These measures include:

1. Restriction on Truck Traffic: Entry of trucks into Delhi, except for those carrying essential commodities or providing essential services, has been halted. LNG/CNG/Electric and BS-VI diesel trucks are exempted.

2. Ban on Certain LCVs: Light commercial vehicles (LCVs) registered outside Delhi, other than electric, CNG, or BS-VI diesel vehicles, are prohibited unless carrying essential goods or services.

3. Vehicle Ban: Delhi-registered BS-IV and older diesel-operated medium and heavy goods vehicles are banned, except for those involved in essential services.

4. C&D Restrictions: Construction and demolition activities, including linear public projects like highways and flyovers, are banned.

5. Education Adjustments: Authorities in NCR may suspend physical classes for students from Grades VI to IX and XI, switching to online learning modes.

6. Workforce Adjustments: Public, private, and municipal offices are advised to function with 50% staff on-site, encouraging the rest to work from home.

7. Government Actions: Central government offices may allow employees to work remotely.

8. Additional Measures: State governments may explore additional actions like college closures, restricting non-essential commercial activities, and implementing odd-even vehicle policies.

The CAQM urged NCR residents to adhere to the Citizen Charter under GRAP and minimize outdoor activities, especially vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses. Citizens are encouraged to support measures to sustain and improve the region’s air quality.