It is no news that Delhi-NCR is suffering from a severe air quality crisis right now. The issue has forced the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to impose Stage-IV (Severe+) measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
The new rule, regulations and restrictions will be effective from Monday. These include bans on truck entry, construction activities, and school closures. Let’s have a look at 10 important things one must know before heading out in Delhi-NCR:
What is GRAP-4: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated Stage-IV (Severe+) measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). It will begin at 8 AM on Monday in the region. This is a crucial measure taken to fight the worsening air quality in Delhi-NCR which is reaching hazardous levels.
Read more: Delhi beats Lahore to become world’s most polluted city with AQI levels touching 1000
Truck Entry Ban: In order to reduce pollution, the entry of trucks into Delhi is banned. However, trucks carrying essential goods or providing essential services will be allowed along with those powered by LNG, CNG, or electric energy, as well as BS-VI diesel.
Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) restrictions: Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) registered outside Delhi, except electric, CNG, or BS-VI diesel vehicles, are also banned, except those carrying essential goods or services.
Suspension of Construction and Demolition (C&D) activities: Construction and demolition activities, including for public projects like highways, flyovers, and power transmission, are banned under GRAP-4. This includes linear public projects such as roads, pipelines, and telecommunication work as well.
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Schools to go online: School classes will be held online for the time being. Physical classes will be suspended for all students, except those in Classes 10 and 12. The announcement was made by the Chief Minister Atishi.
Work-from-Home for schools: Delhi’s Environment Minister Gopal Rai will hold a meeting with heads of departments (HODs) to discuss further implementation of GRAP-4. This may include a decision for state governments to consider closing schools for younger classes (VI-IX and XI) and conducting online lessons.
50% workforce in offices: In light of the poor air quality, public, municipal, and private offices in Delhi may operate with only 50% of their workforce present, with the rest working from home. Central government offices may also follow similar guidelines.
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Further Emergency Measures
: State governments may also consider additional emergency actions, such as the closure of non-essential commercial activities, restrictions on college operations, or even introducing an odd-even vehicle system to reduce vehicular pollution.
Health Advisory: Citizens, particularly children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, are advised to avoid outdoor activities and stay indoors as much as possible to protect their health.
Public Participation in GRAP: Citizens are urged to follow the guidelines outlined in the citizen charter for GRAP-4, which includes reducing outdoor activities and helping in the implementation of the measures aimed at improving the air quality in the region.
These measures aim to tackle the severe air pollution in Delhi-NCR, ensuring public safety while working to improve air quality.