Severe Air Pollution Triggers Emergency Measures
Delhi’s air quality has hit the “Severe+” category, forcing authorities to impose Stage-IV restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). As of November 18, 2024, these measures aim to curb pollution and safeguard public health.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) soared past 450 on Sunday, signaling an environmental crisis. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) announced stringent actions to tackle the situation.
Schools Go Online Amid Health Concerns
All schools in Delhi, except for Classes 10 and 12, have been directed to shift to online learning. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi confirmed this step via a tweet, emphasizing its necessity to protect children from harmful air exposure.
Work-from-Home for Many Employees
Both government and private offices must allow up to 50% of employees to work remotely. This measure aims to reduce traffic emissions and alleviate pollution levels in the region.
The Central Government retains the authority to enforce work-from-home policies for its staff as needed.
Ban on Diesel Trucks Tightened
Authorities have banned medium and heavy diesel vehicles (BS-IV or older) from entering Delhi. Exceptions apply only to trucks carrying essential goods or services. Vehicles running on CNG, LNG, electric power, or BS-VI diesel remain exempt from the ban.
Construction Activities Halted
Construction and demolition (C&D) activities, already restricted under GRAP Stage-III, face further limitations. The ban now extends to linear public projects, including highways, roads, flyovers, and overbridges. Authorities aim to curb dust pollution from these sites, which contributes significantly to Delhi’s air quality woes.
Public Advised to Stay Indoors
The CAQM has advised vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, to avoid outdoor activities. Public cooperation is crucial to mitigate health risks during this period of severe pollution.
Delhi’s AQI Hits Alarming Levels
On Sunday, the AQI readings escalated rapidly, recording 447, 452, and 457 at 5 p.m., 6 p.m., and 7 p.m., respectively. By the evening, pollution had officially reached the “Severe+” category, reflecting the worsening environmental crisis.
Delhi’s air quality is measured across four stages under GRAP:
- Stage-I (AQI 201-300): Poor
- Stage-II (AQI 301-400): Very Poor
- Stage-III (AQI 401-450): Severe
- Stage-IV (AQI >450): Severe Plus
The current readings demand urgent action to prevent further deterioration.
What’s Allowed and What’s Not
Here’s a breakdown of the restrictions under Stage-IV GRAP:
- School Closures: Classes 6–9 and 11 will move online. Only Classes 10 and 12 will continue in-person sessions.
- Remote Work: Up to 50% of employees in government, municipal, and private offices must work remotely.
- Vehicle Restrictions: Diesel vehicles (BS-IV and older) are banned from entering Delhi unless they provide essential services. CNG, LNG, electric, and BS-VI diesel vehicles are exempt.
- Construction Ban: All construction and demolition activities, including public projects like highways and bridges, are prohibited.
- Truck Entry: Non-essential trucks are barred from entering Delhi. Only those carrying necessities will be allowed.
Action Plan to Combat Pollution
The CAQM has outlined an eight-point action plan to address the pollution crisis. Key measures include:
- Restricting vehicular traffic and construction activities.
- Promoting remote work to reduce commuter emissions.
- Urging citizens to minimize outdoor activities.
- Strengthening monitoring systems to ensure compliance with GRAP rules.
Public Reactions and Concerns
Delhi residents have expressed frustration over the severe pollution and the accompanying restrictions. Many argue that such measures are reactive and fail to address the root causes of pollution. Calls for long-term solutions, such as clean energy initiatives and stricter industrial regulations, are growing louder.
An Urgent Wake-Up Call
Delhi’s worsening air pollution demands a collective response from authorities and citizens. While Stage-IV GRAP measures offer temporary relief, long-term strategies are essential to tackle the city’s chronic pollution problem. Until then, residents must endure restricted activities and health risks, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable change.
