Delhi: In response to the escalating air quality concerns in the National Capital Region (NCR), the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) has invoked an 8-point action plan under Stage-IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This decision, effective immediately, aims to prevent further deterioration of air quality in the region.
The situation in Delhi became especially critical today, with the average Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 463 at 3 PM. Unfavorable meteorological conditions, a high incidence of farm fires, and slow-moving North-Westerly winds carrying pollutants into Delhi are identified as the major factors behind this sudden spike in AQI.
The CAQM is urging citizens to cooperate and adhere to the Citizen Charter of GRAP. This includes taking actions to curtail vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and other sources of pollution.
The 8-point action plan, part of Stage-IV of GRAP, involves various measures to combat the deteriorating air quality:
- Restrict entry of truck traffic into Delhi, with exceptions for essential commodities and services, as well as eco-friendly vehicles.
- Prohibit non-Delhi registered Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) from entering Delhi, except for electric vehicles and those carrying essential items.
- Ban the operation of Delhi-registered diesel Medium Goods Vehicles (MGVs) and Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs), except those transporting essential goods.
- Cease Construction and Demolition (C&D) activities in linear public projects.
- Consider discontinuing physical classes in schools and conducting lessons online for students in classes VI – IX and class XI.
- Evaluate options for public, municipal, and private offices, with the possibility of allowing 50% of employees to work from the office and the rest from home.
- Assess the feasibility of work-from-home arrangements for employees in Central Government offices.
- Contemplate additional emergency measures, such as the closure of colleges/educational institutions and implementing an odd-even scheme for vehicles based on their registration numbers.
The CAQM emphasizes the importance of citizens’ cooperation and adherence to the guidelines in the Citizen Charter under GRAP. It advises vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions, to minimize outdoor activities and stay indoors whenever possible.
For the complete and updated schedule of GRAP, you can refer to the Commission’s website at caqm.nic.in.