Delhi Grapples with Severe Air Quality: GRAP 3 Restrictions Reimposed

Delhi, India's capital, is once again in the grip of severe air pollution, prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to reintroduce restrictions under the third stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP 3). The latest measures include a ban on the movement of BS3 petrol and BS4 diesel vehicles and a halt to all non-essential construction activities in the Delhi-NCR region.

CAQM Takes Emergency Action

The CAQM sub-committee responsible for the operationalization of GRAP convened an emergency meeting on Sunday morning in response to the sudden deterioration of air quality in Delhi-NCR since Saturday evening. In light of the alarming pollution levels, the sub-committee has implemented an eight-point action plan as part of Stage III of the revised GRAP across the entire national capital region.

Vehicles Banned and Previous Instances

BS3 petrol and BS4 diesel vehicles are prohibited from plying in the Delhi-NCR region for the third time this winter. This restriction covers cities such as Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Noida. In addition to private vehicles, heavily loaded trucks and light motor vehicles compliant with BS3 and BS4 emission norms face a ban during this period.

Also Read: Delhi Government Reimposes Ban on BS3 Petrol, BS4 Diesel Cars as AQI Soars Over 400

Deteriorating Air Quality and Weather Conditions

The air quality in Delhi has reached severe levels for the first time in 2024, primarily attributed to low temperatures associated with the ongoing cold wave. The situation is exacerbated by low wind speeds over the last 48 hours, contributing to an alarming increase in pollution levels. Apart from the severe air quality, Delhi is grappling with severe cold conditions, with the minimum temperature plummeting to 3.5 degrees Celsius, the lowest recorded this winter.

Verdict

The recurrence of severe air pollution in Delhi underscores the urgency of addressing environmental concerns and adopting sustainable measures to combat pollution. The reimposition of GRAP 3 restrictions reflects the severity of the situation and the need for immediate action to safeguard public health and the environment.