Grap-3 restrictions enforced in Delhi-NCR due to rising air pollution
Following the deterioration of air quality in the capital Delhi and surrounding areas, Grap-3 has been implemented, under which strict restrictions have been imposed on construction activities and old vehicles.
Due to the rising level of air pollution in Delhi and the entire National Capital Region (NCR), the third phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (Grap) has been implemented. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) took this decision as a precautionary measure two days before Diwali.
According to the commission, Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) on Friday was recorded at 382, which falls in the 'very poor' category. Although Grap-3 is normally implemented when the AQI reaches 400 or above into the 'severe' category, this step has been taken in advance seeing the situation.
Under the rules of Grap-3, a complete ban has been imposed on all non-essential construction and demolition activities, including excavation, piling, and operating open RMC plants. Running BS-3 petrol and BS-4 diesel four-wheelers will also be prohibited in Delhi and nearby NCR districts.
In addition, orders have been issued to keep the transportation of materials like sand and cement, stone crushers, mining, and hot-mix plants without clean fuel shut. The use of diesel generators will remain banned except for emergency services, and restrictions will also apply to diesel buses coming from other states.
To protect children from pollution, schools up to the fifth grade have been ordered to conduct online classes. Private institutions have also been advised to provide work-from-home facilities to their employees to reduce vehicle movement.
Key developments
- Grap-3 implemented in Delhi-NCR after AQI recorded at 382
- Complete ban on non-essential construction work and mining activities
- Restriction on running BS-3 petrol and BS-4 diesel vehicles
- Orders for online studies in schools up to fifth grade
