On the morning of November 15, 2024, air quality across several parts of Delhi plunged into the “severe” category, with a thick blanket of smog enveloping the National Capital Region (NCR), including Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gurugram. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in the city hit alarming levels, prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to implement stringent measures under the third stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-III).
GRAP-III Measures Implemented
From 8 am on Friday, several restrictions came into effect under GRAP-III, including a ban on construction activities and the operation of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles in Delhi and neighboring NCR regions. Public transport also faced restrictions, with inter-state buses prohibited from entering Delhi. Violators of these rules will face fines of ₹20,000.
The GRAP-III restrictions aim to curb air pollution, which has been exacerbated by factors such as vehicle emissions and stubble burning. The Delhi government also decided to suspend physical classes in primary schools, moving to online education until further notice to protect children’s health. However, online classes for students will continue.
Severe Pollution Levels Across Delhi
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), air quality data on Thursday morning showed that parts of Delhi, including Anand Vihar, Bawana, Dwarka Sector 8, and Jahangirpuri, recorded AQI levels exceeding 400, placing them firmly in the “severe” category. At 6 am on Thursday, Anand Vihar’s AQI was reported at 441, with other areas like Bawana (455) and Dwarka (444) registering similarly poor air quality.
By 4 pm on Friday, the city’s 24-hour AQI stood at 424, slightly up from the previous day’s 418. Of Delhi’s 39 monitoring stations, 27 reported air quality in the “severe” range. Notable areas affected included Anand Vihar, ITO, Mandir Marg, Nehru Nagar, and Punjabi Bagh.
Key Restrictions Under GRAP-III
Under the new restrictions, the following measures have been put in place:
1. Vehicle Restrictions: BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles, including four-wheelers, are banned in Delhi and the NCR. The only vehicles allowed to ply include electric vehicles, CNG-powered vehicles, and BS-VI compliant diesel buses.
2. Construction and Demolition: A complete ban on construction and demolition activities has been enforced, along with a suspension of mining-related operations. However, less dust-intensive construction activities are allowed, provided they comply with waste management rules.
3. Water Sprinkling: Authorities have intensified dust control measures, including daily water sprinkling on major roads.The Delhi Metro has also increased its services, with 20 additional trips on weekdays to accommodate more commuters, helping reduce the number of private vehicles on the roads.
Political Fallout and Blame Game
The severe air quality has sparked political controversy, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) demanding the resignation of Delhi’s Environment Minister Gopal Rai, accusing the Delhi government of failing to address the pollution crisis. In response, Rai criticized the neighboring BJP-led state governments, alleging their lack of action in combating pollution, particularly stubble burning.
Key Pollutants and Sources
Vehicular emissions remain a significant contributor to Delhi’s pollution, accounting for 12.2% of the total. Another major factor is the burning of crop stubble, particularly in neighboring states. Satellite data from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) revealed that on Thursday alone, 202 farm fires were reported in Uttar Pradesh, along with 11 in Haryana and 5 in Punjab.
GRAP Stages Explained
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a multi-stage emergency response system designed to address worsening air quality. It includes four stages:
Stage 1: “Poor” AQI (201-300)
Stage 2: “Very Poor” AQI (301-400)
Stage 3: “Severe” AQI (401-450)
Stage 4: “Severe Plus” AQI (over 450)
Delhi’s air quality has been in the “very poor” category since late October and has now crossed into the “severe” range, with no immediate relief in sight.
As the capital battles the ongoing pollution crisis, authorities continue to monitor air quality and enforce GRAP-III measures to mitigate the impact. With deteriorating air quality and an increased number of farm fires, Delhi residents are urged to take precautions, particularly those with respiratory conditions, while the government works towards long-term solutions
