Inter-state buses not to enter Delhi if AQI ‘severe’: Panel

To address the rising pollution levels during the winter season, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has revised the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) for the National Capital Region (NCR) on Wednesday.

Under the new guidelines, inter-state buses from NCR states will be prohibited from entering Delhi if the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaches Stage III or ‘Severe’ (AQI 401-450), unless they run on electric vehicles (EVs), CNG, or BS-VI diesel engines.

However, buses and tempo travellers with an all India tourist permit are exempt from this rule. The restriction is part of a broader effort to reduce vehicular emissions, a significant contributor to winter pollution and smog. Delhi has been grappling with poor air quality, especially during winter months when pollution levels rise sharply.

On September 17, Delhi’s AQI stood at 172, indicating ‘Moderate’ air quality. Projections show that it would improve to ‘Satisfactory’ by Sept 19, but revert to ‘Moderate’ levels between Sept 20-21, according to the Ministry of Earth Sciences. CAQM has also reaffirmed its ban on dust-generating construction and demolition (C&D) activities, while allowing limited exceptions for minor repairs and indoor works.