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Delhi Air Pollution: Stage 3 Curbs Triggered
17 Jan
Summary
- Stage 3 GRAP invoked due to projected AQI crossing 400.
- Ban on older BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles enforced.
- Construction, demolition, mining activities suspended across NCR.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the National Capital Region (NCR) has activated Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) due to forecasted air quality deterioration. Delhi's 24-hour average AQI was recorded at 354 on Friday, worsening from the previous day and predicted to reach the severe category over the weekend.
This activation imposes immediate restrictions, including a ban on Bharat Stage-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles in Delhi and surrounding districts. All private construction, demolition, stone crushing, and mining activities are suspended, with exemptions for essential public projects. Schools up to Class 5 in Delhi and nearby areas will shift to hybrid learning.
Meanwhile, Delhi's chief minister announced a long-term strategy to combat pollution, focusing on expanding public transport with a goal of 14,000 buses by March 2029 and promoting electric vehicles. Other measures include improving traffic congestion, strengthening road dust control, and managing construction waste through an app-based system.
