GRAP-III curbs from today as air quality remains ‘severe’ in Delhi

As the air quality in the Capital remained in the “severe” category for the second consecutive day, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) imposed restrictions under the third stage of Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), including a ban on construction and demolition activities, in Delhi-NCR on Thursday. The restrictions will come into force from 8 am on Friday.

The government announced that all primary schools in the city will remain closed and will shift to online classes until further notice. Additionally, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation stated that 20 extra trips (in addition to the 40 already in place since GRAP-II was implemented) will be added to weekday service starting tomorrow. As a result, the Delhi Metro will operate a total of 60 extra trips on weekdays while GRAP-III remains in effect.

Under GRAP Stage III, all inter-state buses from NCR states — except electric vehicles, CNG vehicles and BS-VI diesel buses — will be prohibited from entering Delhi, alongside a stringent ban on construction and demolition activities, suspension of mining-related activities and daily water sprinkling on major roads. There would be restrictions on the plying of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles in Delhi and the districts of Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddh Nagar.

For goods vehicles, strict restrictions are imposed on Delhi-registered diesel operated medium goods vehicles (MGVs) of BS-III standards or below, except for those carrying essential commodities or those providing essential services. Similarly, Delhi will not permit BS-III and below diesel operated light commercial vehicles.

Meanwhile, the CAQM has ordered an increase in the frequency of mechanised road sweeping, daily water sprinkling with dust suppressants, and the expansion of public transport services. It has also advised to introduce differential rates to encourage off-peak travel.

Over 300 flights were delayed at Delhi Airport on Thursday as a dense layer of smog engulfed the Capital. The revised air quality management plan for Delhi includes a four-stage system with specific interventions based on AQI levels. The fourth stage will be imposed when the AQI exceeds 450, triggering emergency measures such as the closure of educational institutions and non-essential businesses to protect public health.