New Delhi: Air pollution levels in Delhi–NCR have surged sharply once again, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing the 450 mark, pushing the region into the ‘Severe Plus’ category. In response to the rapidly deteriorating air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has enforced Stage-IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-IV) across the national capital within a span of 15 hours.
Earlier, GRAP-III had briefly been withdrawn after marginal improvement in air quality. However, as pollution levels spiked again on Saturday, authorities re-imposed GRAP-III with immediate effect, followed by the implementation of GRAP-IV on Sunday morning, reflecting the gravity of the situation.
Under GRAP-IV restrictions, a series of stringent measures have been rolled out to curb pollution and limit public exposure. All construction activities related to highways, roads, flyovers, overbridges, power transmission lines and pipeline projects have been halted across Delhi–NCR.
The CAQM has also directed schools to operate in hybrid mode, covering primary classes as well as students of Classes 6 to 9 and Class 11, allowing online learning to reduce outdoor exposure for children. In addition, government offices and several private establishments have been instructed to allow 50% of their workforce to work from home.
Other key measures include a strict ban on the use of diesel generator sets, enhanced monitoring of industries and polluting units, and strong advisories urging citizens to use public transport instead of private vehicles.
Health experts warn that with AQI levels above 450, people suffering from respiratory ailments are facing severe health risks, while children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to breathing difficulties. Hospitals have already reported an increase in pollution-related complaints.
The GRAP-IV measures have been extended not just to Delhi but also to adjoining NCR districts in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Punjab, as authorities attempt to prevent further escalation.
With pollution at its peak, the focus has now shifted to effective enforcement of GRAP-IV restrictions and whether additional emergency steps will be taken by the government to bring air quality back under control in the coming days.
