Centre holds off stricter curbs for now even as Delhi AQI turns severe

Delhi AQI: Stage 3 curbs include a ban on non-essential construction work and the plying of BS III petrol and BS IV diesel four-wheelers in Delhi-NCR.

Published on: Jan 25, 2024, 06:34:43 IST

By HT News Desk

Prefer HTon Google

Share via

Copy link

Delhi experienced a concerning deterioration in its average air quality index (AQI) on Wednesday, breaching the 400-mark, as reported by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Air quality in Delhi turned ‘severe’ on Wednesday. (File Photo)

The air quality index, ranging from 0 to 100 denoting 'good,' 100 to 200 as 'moderate,' 200 to 300 categorised as 'poor,' 300 to 400 as 'very poor,' and 400 to 500 or above as 'severe,' highlighted the severity of the situation in the national capital.

In response to the very poor air quality, the central government opted to monitor the situation for now before considering the implementation of stricter measures under Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) as forecasts indicated a potential improvement in the situation.

A sub-committee of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in a statement said that it “took stock of the current air quality scenario and forecast of meteorological conditions, as well as the projected air quality index by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).”

Based on these considerations, it was unanimously decided to monitor the situation for a brief period before contemplating Stage III of GRAP. Measures from Stages I and II of GRAP will continue, subject to ongoing evaluation.

The GRAP restrictions, previously lifted on January 18 due to improved air quality, may be reinstated based on the evolving scenario.

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a comprehensive strategy implemented to combat air pollution in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) in India. GRAP outlines a series of measures and restrictions that can be implemented based on the severity of air quality.

Stage 3 restrictions involve a ban on non-essential construction activities and the operation of BS III petrol and BS IV diesel four-wheelers in Delhi-NCR. Under Stage 3 of GRAP, a complete ban is imposed on diesel generators, while the use of coal and firewood in certain industries is prohibited.

The decision to implement specific measures under GRAP is based on the real-time air quality index (AQI) and other relevant factors like wind speed and rainfall.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

Catch every big hit, every wicket with Crickit, a one stop destination for Live Scores, Match Stats, Infographics & much more. Explore now!

Stay updated with all top Cities including, Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai and more across India. Stay informed on the latest happenings in World News along with Delhi Election 2025 and Delhi Election Result 2025 Live, New Delhi Election Result Live, Kalkaji Election Result Live at Hindustan Times.