Mon Nov 18 02:08:10 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Imposes GRAP Stage 4 Amidst Severe Air Pollution Crisis

**New Delhi, [Date of Publication]** – Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) are grappling with a severe air pollution crisis, prompting the central government to implement the most stringent measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). GRAP Stage 4 came into effect at 8 AM today, Monday, following an Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching a concerning 462 in several areas on Sunday night. This drastic measure follows the implementation of GRAP Stage 3 on Thursday.

GRAP Stage 4 mandates a series of restrictions, including a complete ban on the entry of all trucks into Delhi except those carrying essential goods and using CNG or electric power. All Delhi-registered diesel vehicles and medium and heavy goods vehicles are also prohibited from operating. Schools from Class 6 onwards, in addition to primary schools, are closed, with the Delhi and state governments considering a shift to online classes. The central and Delhi governments are also exploring the possibility of work-from-home arrangements for government employees and an odd-even scheme for private vehicles. All physical classes from 10th and 12th standards onwards have also been suspended.

The AQI in Delhi reached 441 on Sunday evening, making it the second most polluted city in India, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Bahadurgarh in Haryana recorded the highest AQI at 445. 32 out of 40 monitoring stations in Delhi reported AQI levels above 400, indicating “severe” air quality.

The Supreme Court will hear a plea on Monday urging the implementation of stricter measures to curb pollution in the Delhi-NCR region. The petition highlights the urgency of the situation, seeking immediate intervention to prevent Delhi from becoming the world’s most polluted city.

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