Thu Jan 16 15:14:42 UTC 2025: ## Delhi NCR Air Quality Plunges to ‘Very Poor’ as Fog and Cold Trap Pollutants

**New Delhi, January 15** – Dense fog and low temperatures have caused a significant deterioration in air quality across the National Capital Region (NCR), prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to implement Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The air quality index (AQI) reached 396 at 6 pm on Wednesday, placing it firmly in the “very poor” category.

GRAP 4 measures, now in effect, include a complete halt to construction activities, a ban on non-essential diesel trucks, and mandatory hybrid learning in schools (excluding classes 10 and 12). Delhi-registered BS-IV and older diesel heavy goods vehicles, except those providing essential services, are also prohibited.

The Air Quality Early Warning System predicts “very poor” air quality on January 16th and 18th-19th, with “poor” air quality expected on January 17th. The forecast for the next six days consistently shows air quality ranging from “poor” to “very poor.”

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for Delhi due to widespread dense to very dense fog. Low wind speeds, less than 6 kmph in many instances, are exacerbating the situation by hindering the dispersal of pollutants. Smog is predicted for much of the next week, with dense fog expected in some areas. The IMD’s forecasts detail low wind speeds and the persistence of smog and fog for the coming days.

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