Mon Nov 18 05:30:42 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Triggers Severe Air Pollution Action Plan Amidst Soaring AQI

**New Delhi, India** – Delhi-NCR has activated the most stringent measures of its Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to combat severely deteriorated air quality. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) announced Stage IV restrictions today, following a sharp spike in the Air Quality Index (AQI). The AQI reached 457 by Sunday evening, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), prompting immediate action.

Stage IV of the GRAP includes a range of restrictions aimed at curbing pollution:

* **School Closures:** Physical classes are banned for all students except those in classes 10 and 12.
* **Truck Ban:** Entry of trucks into Delhi is prohibited, except for those carrying essential goods or providing essential services. LNG/CNG/Electric/BS-VI Diesel trucks are exempted.
* **Light Commercial Vehicle Restrictions:** Light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi (excluding EVs/CNG/BS-VI diesel vehicles) are banned, with exceptions for those carrying essential goods or providing essential services.
* **Heavy Vehicle Restrictions:** Delhi-registered BS-IV and below diesel-operated medium and heavy goods vehicles are prohibited from operating, except for essential services.
* **Work From Home:** State governments and the Delhi government will decide whether to implement a 50% work-from-home policy for government, municipal, and private sector employees. The central government will determine its own work-from-home policy.
* **Further Restrictions Possible:** State governments may impose additional measures, including closing colleges and other educational institutions, halting non-essential commercial activities, restricting vehicle use, and potentially implementing an odd-even car rationing scheme.

The CAQM urges residents to cooperate with the restrictions and follow health advisories. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, are advised to limit outdoor activities and remain indoors as much as possible.

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