Thu Nov 14 13:05:30 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Chokes Under Severe Smog, GRAP Stage III Implemented

**New Delhi:** Delhi and its surrounding areas are enveloped in a thick blanket of smog, with air quality plummeting to the “Severe” category. The Air Quality Index (AQI) has crossed 400 in several regions, prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to implement Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).

The early morning smog has been termed an “episodic event” by the CAQM, who expect the situation to improve throughout the day. However, the alarming AQI levels have triggered the implementation of Stage III measures, which will take effect from 8 am tomorrow.

GRAP Stage III, activated when AQI reaches “Severe” (401-450), includes a range of stringent anti-pollution measures:

* **Construction & Demolition Halt:** A complete ban on non-essential construction and demolition work, with exceptions for projects deemed critical to national security, healthcare, and essential public infrastructure.
* **Vehicle Restrictions:** The operation of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers will be prohibited in Delhi and surrounding NCR regions including Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Noida.
* **Diesel Generator Limitations:** Only emergency use of diesel generator sets will be permitted. Industrial operations not utilizing approved fuels will be banned.
* **Enhanced Dust Control:** Mechanized road sweeping and water sprinkling will be intensified to suppress dust. Public transport services will be boosted, and off-peak travel will be encouraged through differential rates.

GRAP, implemented during the winter season, utilizes a four-stage system to combat air pollution: Stage I (‘Poor’), Stage II (‘Very Poor’), Stage III (‘Severe’), and Stage IV (‘Severe Plus’). Stage II was enforced in October after the AQI exceeded 300.

The escalating air pollution crisis in Delhi underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to tackle this perennial issue. The implementation of GRAP Stage III marks a significant step towards mitigating the hazardous levels of smog engulfing the national capital and its surrounding regions.

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