The pollution problem in the national capital and adjoining areas shows no sign of betterment. With the winter season arrival the area gets covered with thick smog which is hazardous.
The air quality index (AQI) in Delhi crossed the 400 mark and has been in the severe category in the past days. The AQI of 401-500 is categorised as ‘severe’. The data on the air quality index released by the Central Pollution Control Board the average Air quality index recorded was at 396 on November 15 at 4 pm which is the ‘very poor’ category. The air quality in the ‘very poor’ category was towards the higher end. The data released by the Central Pollution Control Board at 10 am shows the air quality index at 407 making it in the ‘severe’ category.
Stage III of GRAP Implemented to Control Pollution
The worsening pollution level in the region is a matter of concern. To deal with the rising and hazardous pollution different steps have been taken already but the change in air quality does not improve. The further deteriorating air quality in the national capital saw newer restrictions to be imposed in the region.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked the third stage of the Graded response action plan (GRAP) to control further deterioration of the air quality. Stage III of GRAP is being put in place from November 15 in the whole NCR region.
Previously, the Stage II of GRAP had already been imposed in the month of October. As per the official statement released the Stage III of GRAP was invoked on November 2 in the year 2023, this year that is in 2024 it is invoked at much later date.
The measures imposed are an 11 point action plan which includes intensifying of mechanical sweeping and use of public transportation and water sprinkling on roads. Furthermore the restrictions imposed under include prohibition on construction activities. Prohibition on demolition activities. The restrictions further includes closing down the stone crushing activities and closing down mining and associated activities among others.
The government has put a ban on BS III petrol and BS IV diesel four wheeler vehicles from plying.
Online Classes and Other Measures
The extreme level of pollution is hazardous for children and impacts their health. The Delhi government has announced suspension of physical classes for students up to class 5 in schools due to air pollution. Online classes will be held. The Delhi government also announced staggered timings for government offices. The step is an effort to reduce traffic and the pollution that happens due to it.
