Delhi Enforces GRAP Stage 3 as Smog Pushes AQI Into Severe Zone

A thick, toxic blanket of smog descended on Delhi. The city’s air quality index (AQI) hit 401 on Saturday morning. This reading is firmly in the “severe” category. Authorities have now triggered strict anti-pollution measures.

The Commission for Air Quality Management made the call. It invoked Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This action was prompted by a sharp deterioration in air quality overnight. Unfavourable weather conditions are to blame.

What GRAP Stage 3 Restrictions Mean for the Capital

GRAP Stage 3 brings severe restrictions to daily life. A strict ban is now in place on older, polluting vehicles. This includes BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers. The ban covers Delhi and surrounding National Capital Region districts.

Construction and demolition work faces a near-total halt. Only essential projects are exempt. Stone crushers and mining activities are also shut down. The government is advising private firms to implement work-from-home policies.

These rules aim to curb major pollution sources. The transport and construction sectors are significant contributors. The goal is to prevent further air quality decline. According to Reuters, such emergency measures are critical during winter smog episodes.

Broader Impact on Public Health and Daily Commute

The health implications for residents are severe. Prolonged exposure to this air can cause serious respiratory issues. Vulnerable groups like children and the elderly are most at risk. Hospitals often report a surge in related health complaints during such periods.

Daily commutes face major disruption. The ban on many private vehicles forces a scramble for alternatives. Public transport may see overcrowding. Interstate diesel buses are also restricted from entering Delhi.

The economic cost is another concern. Halting construction impacts daily wage workers and project timelines. The recurring nature of this annual crisis prompts calls for more permanent solutions. Long-term strategies beyond emergency bans are needed.

The immediate activation of GRAP Stage 3 highlights the critical pollution levels. Delhi’s severe AQI demands urgent action to protect public health. Residents must heed advisories and limit outdoor exposure until conditions improve.

Info at your fingertips

What vehicles are banned under GRAP Stage 3?

BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers are prohibited in Delhi-NCR. Diesel generator sets are also banned, with exceptions for essential services. Restrictions also apply to certain freight vehicles.

Is construction work completely stopped?

Most construction and demolition activity is halted. Essential projects may continue with special permission. Activities like earthwork, piling, and road construction are suspended.

What should Delhi residents do now?

Limit outdoor activities, especially strenuous exercise. Wear N95 or P100 masks if going outside. Keep doors and windows closed, and use air purifiers if available.

How long will these restrictions last?

GRAP stages are dynamic and based on AQI readings. Restrictions will lift once air quality improves to “moderate” or “poor” categories for a sustained period. The commission reviews the situation daily.

Why did the air quality worsen so suddenly?

Meteorological conditions are the primary cause. Very low wind speed and a stable atmosphere prevent pollutant dispersion. This traps local emissions and external smoke near the ground.

What happens if AQI gets even worse?

If AQI surpasses 450, GRAP Stage 4 or “Severe Plus” is invoked. This triggers a complete ban on truck entry into Delhi and possible odd-even vehicle rationing schemes.