Delhi invokes GRAP 4 as AQI surges past 400 mark
What's the story
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has implemented Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR with immediate effect. This comes as the region's air quality worsened, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching "Severe+" levels. The decision was taken after pollution levels crossed critical thresholds, prompting emergency curbs across the region.
Pollution spike
Delhi's AQI reaches alarming levels
The city's AQI jumped from 349 on Friday evening to 401 on Saturday morning. This drastic change was due to slow wind speeds, a stable atmosphere, and meteorological conditions that prevented pollutant dispersion. As of Saturday, 7pm, Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 488 while Ashok Vihar had an AQI of 434. Other areas fared similarly, with AQI being 496 in Bawana, 457 in Burari, 479 in Chandini Chowk, 394 in IGI Airport, and 445 in Okhla Phase-2.
Restrictions imposed
GRAP Stage IV: What it entails
Under GRAP Stage IV, several restrictions are now in place. All construction and demolition activities have been banned, along with the operation of stone crushers and brick kilns, hot mix plants, and mining activities. Diesel-powered medium and heavy goods vehicles are also barred from entering Delhi unless they carry essential goods. The use of diesel generator sets is restricted to emergency services only.
Essential services
What is allowed under GRAP Stage IV
Despite the restrictions, some essential services are exempted from these rules. Construction related to metro, railways, airports, highways, defense, healthcare, and sanitation, as well as other critical infrastructure, can continue with strict dust control measures. Electric vehicles and BS-VI compliant vehicles are allowed to ply on roads. Public transport services such as buses and metros will continue to operate normally.
Public health
Health risks and visibility issues due to smog
As per the norms of CPCB, an AQI between 401 and 500 poses serious health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory ailments. Meanwhile, a dense layer of smog has also reduced visibility across Delhi-NCR. The situation isn't limited to Delhi; parts of Uttar Pradesh are also witnessing dense smog, with Noida sectors recording AQI levels of 448.