Mon Nov 18 10:05:34 UTC 2024: ## Delhi-NCR Under Strictest Air Pollution Restrictions as GRAP Stage 4 Kicks In
**New Delhi, India** – Delhi and its surrounding National Capital Region (NCR) are grappling with severely deteriorated air quality, prompting the implementation of the strictest measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage 4, effective today. The move comes as the region’s air quality index (AQI) plunges into the “severe” category, posing significant health risks.
The GRAP Stage 4 restrictions include a wide range of measures aimed at reducing vehicular and industrial emissions:
* **Vehicle Restrictions:** Entry of all trucks into Delhi is banned, except those carrying essential goods or providing essential services (LNG/CNG/electric/BS-VI diesel trucks are exempted). Light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi (excluding those involved in essential services) are also banned, except for EVs/CNG/BS-VI diesel vehicles. Strict restrictions are placed on BS-IV and below diesel medium and heavy goods vehicles registered in Delhi, with exemptions for essential services.
* **Construction Halt:** Construction and development activities on public projects (highways, roads, flyovers, etc.) are halted, mirroring GRAP Stage 3 restrictions.
* **School and Office Closures:** State governments and the GNCTD may order the closure of physical classes for classes VI, IX, and XI, shifting to online learning. They may also mandate that public, municipal, and private offices operate at 50% capacity, with the remaining employees working from home. Central government offices may also allow employees to work remotely.
* **Further Restrictions:** State governments are authorized to consider additional emergency measures, including college/educational institution closures, restrictions on non-essential commercial activities, and potentially implementing an odd-even vehicle rationing scheme.
* **Public Advisory:** Citizens are urged to adhere to a citizen’s charter, focusing on maintaining and improving air quality. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly with heart or lung conditions, and those with pre-existing illnesses, are advised to avoid outdoor exposure.
The drastic measures underscore the severity of the air pollution crisis facing Delhi-NCR and highlight the urgent need for collective action to improve air quality.
First Piper 