Delhi pollution: GRAP Stage IV restrictions explained; what’s allowed and banned as AQI worsens
New Delhi: In response to the alarming rise in air pollution, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR, effective from 8:00 am on Monday. TThis decision was made after Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) reached a hazardous level of 457 at 7 pm on Sunday, categorised as 'severe+'.
The committee observed a steady increase in AQI, prompting the implementation of stringent measures under Stage IV and the existing actions under Stages I, II, and III.
What’s allowed
- Essential truck services: Trucks carrying essential goods or providing critical services can enter. LNG, CNG, electric, and BS-VI diesel trucks are permitted.
- Certain LCVs: Light commercial vehicles (LCVs) registered outside Delhi are allowed only if they are EVs, CNG, or BS-VI diesel and are carrying essential goods or providing essential services.
- Online education for some classes: State governments and GNCTD can shift classes VI to IX and XI to online mode, ensuring educational continuity.
- Work-from-home options: Public, municipal, and private offices can operate at 50% capacity, with remaining employees working from home.
What’s not allowed
- Entry of non-essential trucks: Trucks not carrying essential goods or services are barred from entering Delhi.
- Diesel-operated goods vehicles: Delhi-registered BS-IV and below diesel-operated medium and heavy goods vehicles (MGVs and HGVs) are banned unless involved in essential services.
- Construction and demolition activities: All construction and demolition activities are prohibited.
The CAQM has also appealed to the public to follow the Citizen Charter under GRAP to help improve air quality.