Delhi pollution: CAQM invokes GRAP Stage 3 as air quality deteriorates

Delhi's air pollution levels showed an increasing trend and the 24-hour average air quality index (AQI) stood at 371 at 4 pm.

Published on: Jan 3, 2025, 18:10:22 IST

By HT News Desk

Prefer HTon Google

Share via

Copy link

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), the centre's panel that oversees Delhi-NCR's air quality, invoked the Stage 3 curbs under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on Friday as the city's air pollution levels increased because of unfavourable weather conditions.

Commuters step out on a cold foggy morning amid rising air pollution. (Photo by Sunil Ghosh / Hindustan Times)

The 24-hour average air quality index (AQI) of Delhi stood at 371 at 4 pm. According to forecasts from the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, the air quality situation is predicted to deteriorate due to weather conditions, reported PTI.

The CAQM asked authorities in the region to immediately implement curbs prescribed under stage 3 to prevent the deterioration of the city's air pollution.

Last week, the CAQM revoked the Stage 3 curbs under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) as pollution levels in the national capital and adjoining areas decreased due to rains. The decision was taken last week after Delhi's air pollution levels showed a declining trend and the 24-hour average air quality index (AQI) stood at 324.

Also read: Delhi pollution: CAQM revokes GRAP 3 measures as rain improves air quality

The Supreme Court has directed the anti-pollution body and Delhi government that GRAP's Stage III measures must be implemented if the AQI exceeds 350 and Stage IV measures reintroduced if it surpasses 400.

Also read: Delhi-NCR air pollution: What is AQI and how does a high AQI of 500 affect your health in the long run?

What's banned under GRAP Stage 3?

GRAP Stage 3 entails a ban on non-essential construction work.

Classes up to grade V are required to shift to hybrid mode under Stage 3. Parents and students have the option to choose online education wherever available.

Under Stage 3, the use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel cars (4-wheelers) is restricted in Delhi and nearby NCR districts. Persons with disabilities are exempt.

Stage 3 also bans non-essential diesel-operated medium goods vehicles with BS-IV or older standards in Delhi.

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

Follow India news real-time updates and the latest news covered on Hindustan Times, featuring today's critical updates on Sonam Wangchuk LIVE and more across India.