Notification:
The air quality in Delhi worsened significantly, with the AQI jumping to 401 on Wednesday from an average of 275 on Tuesday. This sharp spike prompted the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the National Capital Region and adjoining areas to enforce the highest restrictions under GRAP Stage-IV. The move includes a complete halt on construction activities, including linear public projects like highways, roads, flyovers, power transmission, pipelines, and telecommunication projects. Additionally, all measures under GRAP Stage-III are now in effect.
Sharp Rise in Pollution Triggers Emergency Measures
The CAQM reported, "The AQI of Delhi for January 14 was 275. However, dense fog and low temperatures caused a rapid increase, reaching 386 on January 15. These weather conditions created extremely low mixing heights and poor ventilation for pollutant dispersion. To prevent further air quality deterioration, the sub-committee has decided to immediately enforce actions under GRAP Stages III and IV across the NCR." Measures under Stages I and II have been active since October 2024.
Timeline of GRAP Measures
This year, GRAP Stage-III has been imposed three times, while Stage-IV restrictions were implemented for the second time. The last imposition of Stage IV occurred on December 16, 2024, and was lifted on December 24. Stage-III restrictions were last in effect from January 9 to January 12. These recurring cycles of regulations highlight the fluctuating air quality in the region.
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GRAP Stages III and IV: Key Impacts
GRAP Stages III and IV mandate hybrid classes for schools, staggered timings for public offices, and restrictions on private vehicle usage in Delhi, Gurgaon, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddh Nagar. On Wednesday, Delhi’s AQI, which had remained in the "poor" range earlier, surged to "severe" levels by evening, reaching 401. Areas with severe pollution included Ghaziabad and parts of East Delhi.
Measures to Curb Pollution
Since October 2024, GRAP Stages I and II have implemented several measures, such as:
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light to moderate rain later this week, which could help improve the air quality. However, dense fog predicted for Thursday may maintain high pollution levels in the city.