GRAP Stage 4 Restrictions Enforced in Delhi-NCR Amid Severe Pollution and Cold Wave

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Monday reinstated Stage 4 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR as air pollution reached hazardous levels amid a severe cold wave. The restrictions were imposed just hours after GRAP Stage 3 curbs were activated in the region.

Key measures under GRAP Stage 4 include a blanket ban on all construction and demolition activities, including public projects like highways and flyovers, as well as the prohibition of non-essential goods trucks entering Delhi.

Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) breached the 400 mark around 10 PM Monday, signaling “severe” levels of pollution. Calm winds and the formation of an inversion layer exacerbated the situation, further hindering vertical dispersion of pollutants, the CAQM reported.

The CAQM has also mandated hybrid learning for schools. Classes for students from grades VI to IX and XI will be conducted in both physical and online modes where feasible. NCR governments have been advised to adopt similar measures in other regions to minimize exposure to toxic air.

The national capital also grappled with extreme cold. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a minimum temperature of 4.5 degrees Celsius—4.1 degrees below normal—with similar conditions forecast for Tuesday.

This marks the fourth time this December that Delhi’s temperature has dipped below 5 degrees Celsius, with cold wave conditions observed in several parts of the city. The IMD predicts Tuesday’s maximum and minimum temperatures will hover around 24 degrees Celsius and 5 degrees Celsius, respectively.

These developments come after the Supreme Court earlier this month permitted CAQM to relax GRAP-4 curbs when AQI levels briefly improved. However, the rising pollution levels forced the reimposition of the strictest measures.

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As Delhi battles the dual challenges of severe air pollution and cold waves, residents are advised to limit outdoor activities and adhere to government directives to safeguard their health.