Delhi-NCR Enters Emergency Mode as GRAP Stage IV Curbs Enacted Amid Toxic Smog

Delhi and the National Capital Region have activated their most severe pollution control plan. The Commission for Air Quality Management invoked GRAP Stage IV on Saturday. This emergency action was triggered by air quality levels entering the ‘Severe+’ category.

Authorities imposed the restrictions with immediate effect. This decision follows a relentless decline in air quality over recent weeks. The measures aim to curb dangerous pollutant levels posing a serious public health risk.

What GRAP Stage IV Restrictions Mean for Daily Life

Stage IV is the highest alert under the Graded Response Action Plan. It is deployed when the Air Quality Index (AQI) surpasses 450. The new rules operate alongside all previous stages of the plan.

The curbs include a ban on most diesel trucks entering the city. It also stops construction work and bans diesel generators. Only essential services are exempt from these stringent rules.

Residents faced a thick, toxic smog blanket on Saturday. Landmarks like India Gate were shrouded in haze. According to CPCB data, the AQI near Anand Vihar was a severe 488.

Hospitals Report Surging Respiratory Cases as Doctors Warn Public

Hospitals are witnessing a sharp rise in pollution-related illnesses. Doctors report a 20–30 percent increase in respiratory patients. This trend is directly linked to prolonged exposure to poor air.

According to PTI, Dr. Avi Kumar from Fortis Hospital noted the surge. He said cases of cough, breathlessness, and chest tightness are up nearly 20 percent. Many patients are experiencing relentless symptoms that standard treatment cannot easily resolve.

The situation is particularly alarming due to new patients. People with no prior respiratory history are falling ill. Even youngsters playing outdoors are reporting significant health issues.

Weather conditions are worsening the crisis. The IMD forecasts moderate fog, which traps pollutants near the ground. This meteorological pattern is expected to sustain the hazardous air quality for the foreseeable future.

The implementation of GRAP Stage IV underscores the critical nature of Delhi’s pollution crisis. Officials hope these drastic measures will begin to reduce the toxic burden. Residents are urged to limit outdoor exposure until air quality improves significantly.

Thought you’d like to know-

What triggers GRAP Stage IV restrictions?

Stage IV is invoked when the Air Quality Index (AQI) crosses 450. This places air quality in the ‘Severe+’ category, representing the highest level of public health alert.

What activities are banned under Stage IV?

The bans include the entry of most diesel trucks into Delhi. All construction work is halted, and the use of diesel generators is prohibited, with exceptions only for essential services.

How is the pollution affecting hospitals?

Hospitals report a 20-30% rise in respiratory cases. Doctors note increases in patients with severe cough, breathlessness, and chest tightness requiring stronger medication.

What is the current AQI in Delhi?

Readings on Saturday showed severe levels, with the Anand Vihar area recording an AQI of 488. A thick layer of toxic smog was visible across the city’s landmarks.

Why is the smog persisting?

Weather conditions like fog and low wind speeds are trapping pollutants close to the ground. The India Meteorological Department forecasts these conditions to continue, worsening the pollution.

Who decides to implement GRAP stages?

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) is the central authority. Its sub-committee reviews pollution data and meteorological forecasts before making a decision.