17th November, recorded as the most polluted day for Delhi 2024. Air quality levels in Delhi touched the sky and crossed 1000 to 1200 in different areas. The alarming conditions required emergency actions. Thus, Delhi’s former Chief Minister announced the GRAP-4 stage in Delhi. AQI levels 1000+, GRAP-4 in Delhi, is Delhi going to see any relief? Here is what are the restrictions and what allowed for Delhi residents!
GRAP-3 stage in Delhi was implemented on 15th November. Till now, no relief in air quality has been recorded. Moreover, last night air quality levels recorded the highest in Delhi in 2024. It required the emergency action plan, thus GRAP-4 was implemented the very next day. But will these measures provide any relief in the capital from the choking air?
Current AQI conditions in Delhi:
Air quality conditions in Delhi are alarming as from yesterday, AQI levels are more than the hazardous category. Everyone is experiencing burning sÅmell in the air. Not just this, the air turned toxic since, burning eyes, breathing discomfort, and other respiratory conditions are normal.
What is GRAP Stage 4 in Delhi?
GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) is an emergency framework to combat severe air pollution in the area. GRAP has a total of 4 stages, and GRAP-4 implemented when AQI levels reached the “Hazardous” category. As AQI levels remain in the “Hazardous” category for 48 hours.
AQI levels in Delhi are continuously in the “Severe” to “Hazardous” category for 48 hours. Thus, the GRAP-4 stage is announced in the emergency air quality condition in Delhi.
Here knows what is restricted and what’s allowed in GRAP-4:
Restrictions on Vehicles and transportation in Delhi:
Entry of Trucks into Delhi:
- Banned: All truck traffic is restricted to entering Delhi, except trucks carrying essential commodities and providing essential services.
- Allowed:
- This is also allowed only to LNG/CNG/Electric/BS-VI diesel trucks are permitted.
- Only Trucks carrying perishable or essential goods are allowed to enter Delhi.
Light Commercial Vehicles Registered Outside Delhi:
- Prohibited: Any light commercial vehicles (LCVs) that are operating other than EVs, CNG or BS-VI diesel are not allowed.
- Exceptions: Some LCVs carrying essential goods or providing essential services are allowed to enter Delhi.
Non-essential light commercial vehicles
Banned: Non-essential light commercial vehicles from outside are banned in Delhi from entering unless they have cleaner fuels. Vehicles operating on BS-IV or below diesel.
Allowed: It means only vehicles with cleaner fuel like operating with BS-IV, LNG, CNG or EVs are allowed.
Workplace Guidelines in Delhi
Government and Private Offices:
Every office advised the operate with 50% of employees that is mandated. And the remaining workforce to work from home to reduce vehicular traffic and emissions.
Educational Institutions
Schools in Delhi
In GRAP-3, only primary school was closed. Now, classes 6 to 9 and class 11 moved to online classes.
Construction Activities: Complete Ban
All construction and demolition works are banned in Delhi till the next order. It includes transport carrying the construction materials are restricted.
Penalties
- GRAP-4 Non-compliance construction sites in Delhi will have to pay hefty fines.
- Site Closure: Violations from any site will result in immediate action as shutdown of the site.
Health Advisory
Everyone is strongly advised to:
- Avoid any outdoor activity, especially children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions like asthma or other issues.
- Use N95 air pollution masks when stepping out from your house or office.
- Use air purifiers indoors to reduce exposure to indoor pollutants and breathe clean air.
Air quality levels in Delhi are worsening day by day and long-term measures are required for better solutions. GRAP-4 measures are crucial and can help improve the air quality levels in Delhi. Stay informed about the air you are breathing and take action to make it better.
For regular AQI updates and advisories, visit AQI.in.
