This measure is being implemented as part of Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which is the central government’s air pollution control strategy designed for execution in the region during the winter season.
At 5 pm, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi was recorded at 402.
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During a meeting to assess the air quality situation in Delhi-NCR, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), a regulatory body tasked with formulating strategies to combat pollution in the region, reported that pollution levels are anticipated to rise further due to unfavorable meteorological and climatic conditions.
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) classifies its actions into four stages based on the Air Quality Index (AQI) levels:
Stage I – ‘Poor’ (AQI 201-300)
Stage II – ‘Very Poor’ (AQI 301-400)
Stage III – ‘Severe’ (AQI 401-450)
Stage IV – ‘Severe Plus’ (AQI >450)
These stages guide the implementation of appropriate measures to address air quality concerns in the region.
In Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), there is a comprehensive suspension of construction and demolition activities, with exceptions made for essential government projects, mining, and stone crushing operations.
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This stringent measure is put in place to mitigate the adverse impact of air pollution and protect public health when air quality reaches the ‘Severe’ category (AQI 401-450).
In Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), restrictions are imposed on the entry of certain vehicles to combat air pollution.
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This includes a ban on the entry of light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi, as well as diesel-guzzling trucks, and medium and heavy goods vehicles, except those engaged in essential services.
These measures are implemented to reduce vehicular emissions and improve air quality when the air quality index reaches the ‘Severe’ category (AQI 401-450).