Thu Jan 16 13:57:58 UTC 2025: ## Delhi Reinstates Strictest Air Pollution Measures as AQI Reaches Hazardous Levels

**NEW DELHI, January 16, 2025** – Delhi is battling a severe air pollution crisis, forcing the authorities to reinstate the strictest measures under Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The move comes after the Air Quality Index (AQI) soared from 275 on January 14th to a hazardous 396 by 6 pm on January 15th, driven by unfavorable weather conditions including calm winds, low temperatures, and dense fog.

The Commission for Air Quality Management in the National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) announced the implementation of all Stage 3 and 4 GRAP actions, citing the need to prevent further deterioration and comply with Supreme Court directives. These measures include:

* **Construction Halt:** All construction activities across Delhi have been suspended.
* **Truck Ban:** Non-essential diesel trucks are banned from entering the city.
* **School Closures:** Schools for students up to class 9 and class 11 have transitioned to a hybrid learning model (online and in-person), impacting both government and private institutions across Delhi-NCR. Classes 10 and 12 are exempt due to upcoming examinations.
* **Vehicle Restrictions:** Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) registered outside Delhi (excluding EVs, CNG vehicles, and BS-VI diesel vehicles) are barred from entry unless transporting essential goods. Delhi-registered medium and heavy diesel vehicles older than BS-IV are also banned, except for essential services.

The sudden spike in pollution prompted the Delhi Directorate of Education to implement the hybrid learning model to minimize children’s exposure to hazardous air. The PIB further mandated this hybrid learning model for classes up to 5th grade across Delhi-NCR districts including Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddh Nagar.

Experts warn that long-term solutions are urgently needed to address Delhi’s persistent air pollution problem. The situation remains critical, and authorities are closely monitoring the AQI and adjusting measures as needed.

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