Delhi-NCR Grinds to a Halt as Severe Air Quality Triggers GRAP-4 Restrictions

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Delhi-NCR woke up to a thick blanket of fog and chilly temperatures on Saturday, with the national capital's air quality plummeting to 'severe' levels. In response, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) implemented the strictest pollution curbs, GRAP 4, to tackle the soaring Air Quality Index (AQI) levels. The national capital recorded an AQI of 432, while neighboring cities like Noida (396), Gurugram (405), and Ghaziabad (406) also suffered from poor air quality. As per the GRAP 4 restrictions, which came into effect on Saturday, entry of trucks into Delhi is restricted, except for those carrying essential commodities or providing essential services. Light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi are also barred from entering the city, except for electric, CNG, and BS-VI diesel vehicles. Under GRAP 4, the Delhi and NCR state governments have the authority to decide on discontinuing physical classes for students in Classes VI to IX and Class XI, and shifting to online mode. They can also permit public and private offices to function at 50% strength, with the remaining employees working from home. The GRAP 4 restrictions include all the measures from GRAP 3, such as a ban on construction and demolition activities, restrictions on private vehicles, and a ban on non-essential BS-IV medium goods vehicles. The restrictions do not apply to essential public projects, including railways, metro construction, airports, defense, sanitation, and healthcare, which are expected to continue with strict dust and waste management guidelines. The CPCB's Sameer app and the India Meteorological Department's Mausam app reported the AQI and temperature data, respectively. As the situation continues to unfold, residents of Delhi-NCR are advised to stay informed and follow the restrictions to ensure their safety and well-being.