NEW DELHI: Centre’s panel overseeing Delhi-NCR’s air quality on Friday reinstated stage 3 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) due to deteriorating air pollution caused by adverse weather conditions, according to an official order.
The air quality measurements in Delhi showed a worsening trend, with the 24-hour average air quality index (AQI) reaching 371 by 4 pm, according tonews agency PTI.
The India Meteorological Department and Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology have projected further decline in air quality due to unfavourable weather patterns.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), which oversees pollution control measures in Delhi-NCR, instructed regional authorities to enforce stage 3 restrictions immediately to prevent additional deterioration.
The Stage 3 protocols were previously suspended last week on Friday.
Under these measures:
- Educational institutions must conduct hybrid classes for students up to grade V, with families having the choice of online learning where available.
- Non-essential construction activities are restricted.
- Its prohibits BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers in Delhi and surrounding NCR districts, with exemptions for persons with disabilities.
- It also prohibits the operation of non-essential diesel-powered medium goods vehicles meeting BS-IV or earlier emission standards within Delhi.
