AQI in ‘severe+’: Construction, demolition activities banned
Delhi’s air quality plunged further into the ‘severe+’ category on Sunday, prompting authorities to implement Stage-IV measures of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the NCR from 8 am on Monday.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) rose from 441 at 4 pm to 457 by 7 pm, the worst in the season, marking a dangerous escalation due to unfavorable meteorological conditions.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) held an emergency meeting on Sunday evening to address the deteriorating air quality. Officials reviewed forecasts from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), which predicted little improvement in conditions in the coming days.
Under Stage-IV GRAP, stringent restrictions will be enforced across the National Capital Region (NCR). Entry of trucks into Delhi, except for those carrying essential goods, will be banned, while non-compliant diesel vehicles, including light commercial and heavy goods vehicles, will also be prohibited. Construction and demolition activities, including public infrastructure projects, will remain suspended.
Authorities may also shut schools and shift physical classes to online modes for certain grades. Public, private, and municipal offices have been advised to operate at 50 percent strength, with the rest working from home. State governments have been encouraged to consider additional measures such as the odd-even vehicle scheme and the closure of non-essential commercial activities.
The CAQM has appealed to residents to minimise outdoor activities, particularly vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic health conditions.
