The severe air pollution in Delhi has led to the enforcement of GRAP Stage 4 anti-pollution measures in Delhi-NCR. On Monday morning, the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) worsened to 481, placing it in the “severe plus” category.
GRAP Stage 4: Restrictions in Delhi
Under GRAP Stage 4, strict measures have been implemented to reduce emissions:
- Diesel-run medium and heavy goods vehicles (BS-IV or below) are banned, except those carrying essential goods.
- Non-essential light commercial vehicles from outside Delhi are prohibited unless they run on cleaner fuels like CNG, BS-VI diesel, or are electric vehicles.
- Trucks carrying non-essential items are barred from entering the city unless they operate on LNG, CNG, or BS-VI diesel.
In addition, schools and workplaces are adjusting to the situation:
- Classes 6 to 9 and 11 are recommended to shift to online mode.
- Offices in NCR are advised to operate at 50% capacity, with the remaining employees working from home.
Also Read- Delhi Air Pollution: AQI ‘Severe’ Again; Thick Smog Reduces Visibility, Schools May Close Soon
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), 32 out of 34 monitoring stations reported “severe” levels, with an AQI between 401 and 450 being classified as “severe” and anything above 450 considered “severe plus.” This level of pollution poses serious health risks, even for healthy individuals, and can worsen conditions for those with pre-existing health issues.
On Sunday, vehicles were responsible for 15.8% of the pollution, while stubble burning accounted for 25% on Saturday. The primary pollutant remains PM2.5, which poses severe health risks by penetrating deep into the lungs.