The Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) is grappling with an extreme air pollution crisis, pushing the Air Quality Index (AQI) to dangerous levels nearing 600 in many areas. Cities like Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, and Faridabad are blanketed in hazardous smog, prompting authorities to activate the highest level of emergency response. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has officially implemented GRAP Stage 4, the most severe phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), across the entire NCR.
This emergency declaration brings a slew of stringent measures aimed at drastically reducing pollution sources. These new restrictions are in addition to all measures enforced under GRAP Stages 1, 2, and 3. Key among the new directives is a ban on the entry of most trucks into Delhi, with exceptions for vehicles carrying essential goods or those powered by cleaner fuels such as CNG, LNG, BS-VI diesel, or electricity. Additionally, all public and government construction projects have been halted, building upon the existing ban on non-essential construction from Stage 3. Commercial vehicles not originating from Delhi are also barred, except for those meeting CNG and BS-VI diesel standards. To further alleviate vehicular congestion and pollution, a 50% work-from-home mandate has been issued for employees in both government and private sector offices.
The GRAP system operates on a four-tiered approach, escalating restrictions as air quality deteriorates. Stage 1 addresses ‘Poor’ AQI with basic measures, Stage 2 tackles ‘Very Poor’ conditions with generator bans and water sprinkling, and Stage 3, for ‘Severe’ AQI (401+), bans certain vehicles and non-essential construction. Stage 4, triggered by ‘Severe Plus’ AQI (450+), imposes the current drastic measures. Authorities are urging residents to take maximum precautions, limit outdoor activities, wear N95 masks, and adhere to all health advisories due to the severe health risks posed by the toxic air.