The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) outlined strict actions, including a total ban on construction activities, limitations on vehicle movement, and a potential shift to work-from-home arrangements for both public and private offices.

With Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) surging to a hazardous 457 on Sunday evening, authorities have announced the implementation of anti-pollution measures under GRAP-IV (Graded Response Action Plan) starting Monday, November 18, at 8 am. The measures aim to address the severe air quality crisis, which has worsened over the past week.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) outlined strict actions, including a total ban on construction activities, limitations on vehicle movement, and a potential shift to work-from-home arrangements for both public and private offices. The Delhi government has also been urged to consider the “odd-even” vehicle scheme to reduce vehicular emissions.

Key Restrictions Under GRAP-IV

Vehicle Bans

Entry of all trucks, except those carrying essential goods, CNG, or electric trucks, is prohibited.

BS-IV and below-diesel Medium Goods Vehicles (MGVs) and Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) are barred from Delhi roads.

Construction Halts

All construction and demolition activities, including major projects like highways, flyovers, and roads, are suspended.

Workplace Adjustments

Offices may be directed to operate at 50 per cent capacity, with the remaining workforce working from home. A similar arrangement is under consideration for central government employees.

Educational Shifts

Classes 6-9 and 11 are likely to transition to online mode, while primary classes remain suspended under Stage III measures.

Public Advisory

Elderly individuals, children, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions have been advised to stay indoors.

The Delhi Metro has added 60 trips to accommodate increased public transport use, and citizens are encouraged to carpool or use public transit to minimize road congestion.

AQI Hits ‘Severe Plus’ Levels

Delhi’s air quality deteriorated to the ‘severe’ category for the first time this season on Wednesday, and the situation has only worsened. On Sunday, AQI levels in areas like Bawana (490), Ashok Vihar (487), and Wazirpur (483) ranked among the highest in the city, pushing the overall index into the ‘severe plus’ category.

Government’s Next Steps

The Delhi government is deliberating the implementation of the odd-even vehicle rule, which alternates road access for vehicles based on their registration numbers. This measure has previously been employed during similar crises. Authorities are also considering expanding work-from-home recommendations to reduce non-essential travel and emissions further.

As air quality continues to deteriorate, experts urge the public to take precautionary measures and reduce outdoor activities to safeguard health.