In a decisive move to curb rising pollution levels, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has implemented Stage-I restrictions of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR, after air quality remained poor despite forecasts suggesting improvement.
The emergency decision came after a high-level review by the CAQM sub-committee on Friday. Officials blamed strong winds carrying dust from distant regions as the primary reason behind the sudden spike in pollution. Experts labelled it a "short-term but severe pollution event."
According to CAQM’s official release, “Despite earlier forecasts indicating improvement, air quality levels have worsened due to regional dust transport. This necessitates the immediate implementation of Stage-I of GRAP to reduce further deterioration.”
AQI Dips Sharply
On May 15, Delhi's AQI saw a sharp decline, and by May 16, it had plummeted to 278 — categorised as ‘Poor’ by the Central Pollution Control Board. Projections from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) indicate that air quality will remain on the lower end of the 'Poor' category through May 17.
What Stage-I GRAP Restrictions Mean:
Under Stage-I of GRAP, measures focus on controlling emissions from dust, construction, vehicles, and industrial sources. Here’s what is now enforced across Delhi-NCR:
Construction & Demolition: All sites over 500 sqm must have an approved dust management plan; anti-smog guns are encouraged.
Waste Burning: Open burning of garbage, leaves, or any form of waste is strictly prohibited.
Fuel Usage: Roadside food vendors and commercial kitchens must stop using coal or firewood; only electricity or clean fuels are allowed.
Generator Ban: Diesel generators are restricted except for essential services like hospitals.
Vehicle Monitoring: Heavily polluting vehicles can be fined or seized.
Traffic Rules: Police presence increased at major intersections; all drivers are urged to switch off engines at red lights.
Vehicle Ban: Diesel vehicles over 10 years old and petrol vehicles over 15 years old continue to be banned in Delhi.
Public Transport Push: Citizens are encouraged to use metro, buses, and carpooling to reduce vehicular emissions.
Firecracker Ban: Total ban on sale, storage, and use of firecrackers across NCR until January 1, 2025.
Industrial Action: Polluting industries and thermal power stations within 300 km of Delhi may face immediate enforcement.
Citizen Advisory
Residents are advised to:
Avoid outdoor activities, especially children and elderly
Use N95 masks when stepping outside
Report violations through the Green Delhi App, SAMEER App, or dial 311
Monitoring Will Continue
The CAQM will continue to monitor air quality trends and meteorological data daily. If levels worsen, Stage-II restrictions or higher may be imposed without delay. All relevant authorities have been instructed to remain on high alert and act in accordance with GRAP 2024 guidelines, aligned with the latest Supreme Court directions.
