Major decision to curb pollution in Delhi, GRAP-3 implemented across the capital

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The pollution level in the capital Delhi is continuously increasing. Smoke is clearly visible in various parts of the city. In view of the continuously deteriorating air quality, the central government has banned non-essential construction work in Delhi-NCR. Along with this, many new restrictions have been implemented under GRAP-3. According to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CQM), while the average Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi was 362 on Tuesday, it increased to 425 on Tuesday morning. Due to the unfavorable conditions of calm winds, stable atmosphere and cold weather, the pollutants are accumulating near the surface.

Under GRAP-3, non-essential construction work, stone crushers, and mining activities have been banned. Schools up to Class 5 have been advised to operate in hybrid mode so that students and parents can opt for online education if they wish. Under Phase 3, restrictions are also in place on the use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers in Delhi and surrounding NCR districts. However, vehicles belonging to persons with disabilities are exempted.

The Commission for Air Quality Management said, "Taking into account the current air quality trends, the Sub-Committee has decided to implement all actions under Phase-III of GRAP in the NCR with immediate effect. This is in addition to the already implemented Phase-I and Phase-II actions."

The major restrictions imposed under GRAP-3 are as follows:

* Medium-sized vehicles with BS-IV diesel engines will be prohibited from plying on freight in Delhi. Only vehicles involved in essential services will be exempted.

* Diesel vehicles of BS-IV or lower standard registered outside Delhi will not be allowed to enter Delhi-NCR as long as GRAP-3 is in force.

* Schools up to Class 5 will be allowed to conduct classes in hybrid mode, allowing students to choose online or offline classes as per their convenience.

* The Delhi government and the respective state governments of the NCR can change the office timings of their departments and civic agencies. All agencies will also have to ensure compliance with the new provisions included in GRAP-3.