The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has decided to implement Stage-III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the National Capital Region (NCR) with immediate effect. This step comes after a continuous increase in the Air Quality Index (AQI), which has crossed the 350 mark in Delhi, indicating ‘Severe’ air quality.

Reason for the Decision

In a meeting held on December 16, 2024, the CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP reviewed the deteriorating air quality conditions in NCR. Officials highlighted adverse meteorological conditions, such as extremely calm winds and low vertical mixing height, as major reasons for the worsening pollution levels. The situation has created an inversion layer, restricting the dispersal of pollutants and leading to a rise in AQI.

Immediate Actions Under Stage-III

As per the revised GRAP schedule issued on December 13, 2024, Stage-III includes strict measures to curb emissions and pollution levels. Agencies in the entire NCR are directed to enforce these actions immediately. This includes:

1.Ban on construction and demolition activities (except essential projects like railways, metro, and hospitals).

2.Restrictions on industrial operations that are not using clean fuels.

3.Closure of brick kilns and hot mix plants.

4.Enhanced monitoring and strict enforcement of pollution control measures across sectors.

These measures are in addition to Stage-I and Stage-II actions of the GRAP, which are already in force.

Air Quality Situation in Delhi

The CAQM reported that AQI levels are likely to remain in the higher end of the ‘Very Poor’ category due to ongoing adverse weather conditions. Forecasts from IMD/IITM suggest no major improvement in wind patterns, further aggravating pollution levels.

Monitoring and Enforcement

The Sub-Committee has assured that it will closely monitor the air quality scenario and make further decisions as required. Agencies across NCR have been instructed to implement the prescribed measures promptly to prevent further deterioration.

Official Statement

The CAQM emphasized that these steps are essential to protect public health and urged citizens to cooperate by reducing outdoor activities and minimizing pollution through individual efforts.

For updates on the GRAP schedule and air quality measures, the public can refer to the CAQM official website.