Mon Oct 21 14:58:31 UTC 2024: **Summary of News Article:**

– **Implementation of Stage II GRAP:** Due to alarming air quality levels, authorities in the National Capital Region (NCR) will enact Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) starting at 8:00 AM on October 22, 2024. This stage is activated when the Air Quality Index (AQI) is classified as ‘Very Poor’ (301-400).

– **Key Restrictions and Actions:** The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) will impose restrictions including a ban on diesel generators and construction activities.

– **Enforcement Measures:** All agencies in the NCR will implement actions from both Stage II and the previously enforced Stage I, focusing on daily mechanical or vacuum sweeping and water sprinkling on roads, especially in high-traffic and hotspot areas.

– **Construction Dust Control:** Increased inspections at construction sites will be enforced to ensure strict dust control measures.

– **Traffic and Transportation Adjustments:** To address congestion, more traffic personnel will be assigned to busy areas, and vehicle parking fees will increase. Additionally, more bus and metro services will be introduced, with public transport strongly encouraged.

– **Current Air Quality Situation:** A thick layer of smog has settled in Delhi, marking the air quality as ‘Very Poor’ with an AQI of 312 at 6:14 PM. Neighboring areas like Ghaziabad and Noida have reported a ‘Poor’ AQI level.

– **Public Advisory:** Residents are urged to use public transportation, regularly change automobile air filters, and limit dust-generating activities until January.

Overall, the measures aim to prevent further deterioration of air quality in the NCR amid a concerning pollution situation.

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