Fri Nov 15 12:56:45 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Suffers Under Severe Smog, GRAP Stage 3 Restrictions Imposed

**New Delhi, November 15** – Delhi’s air quality plunged to “severe” levels on Friday, prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to activate Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This includes a ban on construction activities and the use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles in the city and NCR.

The decision comes as a thick layer of smog continues to blanket the National Capital Region, including Noida, Ghaziabad and Gurugram.

Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 460 (‘severe plus’) at 3pm on Thursday, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Other areas with severely polluted air include Bawana (460), Wazirpur (459) and Jahangirpuri (466).

Responding to the alarming situation, the Delhi government has announced the closure of physical classes for primary schools until further notice. Online classes will continue.

The Stage 3 restrictions, which came into effect at 8am on Friday, aim to curb pollution and protect public health. The CAQM will continue to monitor the situation and implement further measures as needed.

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