Fri Nov 15 15:50:44 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Braces for Severe Air Pollution with Stricter Measures

**New Delhi, India** – Delhi’s air quality remained in the “severe” category for the second consecutive day on Friday, prompting the Delhi government to implement the third stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This comes after 15 days of “very poor” air quality in the city.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi on Friday morning was 420, slightly improved from Thursday’s 430 but still posing a serious health risk. Several areas across the capital recorded AQI readings above 400, with Anand Vihar reaching 455 and Bawana recording 449.

The GRAP-III measures, which came into effect on Friday, include:

* **Ban on construction activities** and restrictions on the operation of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR).
* **Closure of primary schools for physical classes** until further notice. Online classes are permitted.
* **Inter-state buses from NCR states**, except for electric vehicles, CNG vehicles, and BS-VI diesel buses, are prohibited from entering Delhi.
* **Construction and demolition activities, mining-related operations are suspended**.
* **Water sprinkling on major roads is mandated.**
* **Students up to class 5 may be considered for online classes.**

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) announced 20 additional trips on weekdays in response to the GRAP-III implementation.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has ordered strict enforcement of these restrictions in Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Budh Nagar, with violations attracting a fine of Rs 20,000.

These stringent measures highlight the severity of Delhi’s air pollution crisis and the government’s determination to address the issue. However, the long-term solution requires collaborative efforts from all stakeholders, including individuals, industries, and neighboring states, to reduce emissions and improve air quality in the city.

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