Delhi's air quality remains 'very poor'
What's the story
Delhi's air quality remained hazardous on Saturday, with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) at 364 at 8:00am. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data categorized this as "very poor," although some areas recorded "severe" levels. The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi recorded an AQI of 443, while Punjabi Bagh and Narela recorded 433 and 409, respectively.
Pollution control
GRAP Stage 3 invoked across Delhi-NCR
The Sub-Committee on the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR.
This decision was taken two days before Diwali as a precautionary measure against worsening air quality.
The emergency action plan is based on forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).
Enhanced restrictions
What does GRAP stage 3 entail?
Stage 3 of GRAP includes stricter pollution control measures and increased enforcement. It bans BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers across Delhi and certain NCR districts.
Non-essential construction activities that generate dust are also suspended under these measures.
Schools have been permitted to switch primary classes to a hybrid learning model to minimize children's exposure to toxic air.
Health protection
Focus on protecting vulnerable populations
The stringent measures under Stage 3 aim to prevent Delhi's air quality from deteriorating into the "severe+" category.
The focus is on curbing emissions of PM2.5, PM10, and nitrogen oxides.
These efforts are especially important for protecting vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly from respiratory illnesses and cardiovascular stress.
Sustainable solutions
Long-term solutions needed for sustainable urban waste management
While GRAP is an emergency measure, the CAQM stresses the importance of long-term regional coordination and sustainable urban waste management.
The plan has 48 coordinated action items across four stages to tackle air pollution effectively.
These steps are crucial for ensuring cleaner transport adoption and reducing public health risks associated with poor air quality in Delhi.