Air Quality in Delhi-NCR Declines to 'Very Poor'; Stage III GRAP Measures Reinstated
Click to start listening
New Delhi, Jan 4 (NationPress) The air quality in Delhi-NCR has worsened to the 'very poor' category, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) of the national capital measured at 383 on Saturday, as stated by the Central Pollution Control Board.
This situation marks the second consecutive day that the air quality in the city has remained in this detrimental category.
Some areas reported an AQI exceeding 400, including Anand Vihar (469), Ashok Vihar (423), ITO (401), Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium (418), RK Puram (415), and Okhla Phase 2 (459).
Additionally, neighboring cities such as Faridabad (312), Noida (465), Gurugram (363), and Ghaziabad (414) have also shown poor air quality levels, which significantly elevate health risks for residents.
After a short reprieve at the end of 2024 due to heavy rainfall that improved air quality to the 'moderate' level, conditions have deteriorated again, with the AQI dropping into the 'poor' category on Thursday.
In response to escalating pollution levels, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has reinstated Stage III measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This framework is designed to tackle air pollution through a structured system of interventions based on AQI severity.
Stage III restrictions, which include limitations on industrial operations and construction activities, are activated when the AQI surpasses 350, while Stage IV measures come into effect if the index exceeds 400.
The Supreme Court has previously mandated authorities to implement GRAP measures swiftly when pollution thresholds are surpassed.
CAQM officials have attributed the decline in air quality to factors such as dense fog, low wind speeds, and other unfavorable meteorological conditions.
As of Saturday morning, the AQI surpassed 350, reaching 371 by 4:00 p.m. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has projected that these adverse conditions are likely to persist, maintaining air quality in the 'very poor' category in the coming days.
Temperatures in Delhi have also dropped significantly, with a low of 7°C recorded on Saturday morning, adding to the worsening situation. The dense fog has further disrupted daily activities and commutes across the region.
GRAP measures range from Stage I for 'poor' air quality (AQI 201-300) to Stage IV for 'severe plus' conditions (AQI above 450).
Stage III restrictions include prohibitions on construction and demolition activities, shutting down brick kilns, and increased monitoring of industrial emissions.
Delhi is currently facing substantial air pollution and thick fog. In light of this, officials are urging residents to minimize their exposure, avoid outdoor activities during high pollution periods, and adopt preventive measures to safeguard their health.
