Delhi-NCR chokes: GRAP stage 3 kicks in as air quality hits 'severe' levels, authorities spring into action
Noida (The Uttam Hindu) : Pollution levels in Delhi-NCR have once again reached dangerous levels. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) called an emergency meeting to review the situation and, in light of the rising pollution, decided to implement Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) with immediate effect.
Stage-III is implemented only when the air quality is recorded in the "severe" category, and Delhi's AQI has reached this level in the last 24 hours. According to the commission, Delhi's average AQI on November 10 was 362, which falls in the 'very poor' category, but by 9 am on November 11, the AQI had reached 425, which falls directly into the 'severe' category.
Low winds, stagnant air, and unfavorable weather conditions are cited as the main reasons behind this. Forecasts from the Meteorological Department (IMD) and IITM also predict slow winds, increasing the concentration of pollutants in the lower atmosphere. Following this, the GRAP subcommittee decided that all Stage I and Stage II restrictions, along with those in Stage III, will now be implemented immediately.
This means a strict ban on construction and demolition activities, immediate cessation of earth-blowing sites, immediate closure of brick kilns, stone crushers, and hot-mix plants, and strict action against polluting industrial operations. Roadside dust control operations will also be intensified. Entry of trucks and heavy vehicles will also be prohibited, except for essential services. The CAQM has directed all concerned agencies to maintain strict vigilance, increase patrols, and prompt action against violations.
Stages I, II, and III will be implemented simultaneously across the NCR to prevent further deterioration of the AQI. The Commission has also appealed to citizens to strictly adhere to the Citizen Charter issued under GRAP—minimize the use of private vehicles, promote carpooling, avoid burning garbage, and avoid activities that contribute to air pollution.
Experts say that if weather conditions aren't favorable, the levels could worsen in the coming days, so the role of both the administration and the public is crucial. Pollution increases every year with the onset of winter in Delhi-NCR, but this time, the AQI crossing 400 in the early days is being considered a serious warning.