Stage 4 of GRAP has been invoked in Delhi as AQI continued to worsen (File)
New Delhi:
A thick layer of smog – a poisonous mix of smoke and fog – enveloped the Delhi-Nationwide Capital Area (NCR) this morning because the air high quality index (AQI) plummeted to the “severe-plus” class, forcing authorities to announce stricter air pollution management measures.
Smog additionally affected visibility within the nationwide capital which numerous airways stated may delay flight schedules. Visibility at Palam dropped to 150 metres at 7 am.
#6ETravelAdvisory: Fog is at present affecting visibility in Delhi, which can end in gradual shifting visitors and delays in flight schedules. We advocate permitting additional journey time and checking flight standing earlier than beginning your journey https://t.co/rpnOvAOxQl. Secure travels!
— IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) November 17, 2024
Variety consideration to all flyers!#Fog#FogAlert#DelhiAirportpic.twitter.com/QRx6v26Ral
— Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) November 18, 2024
Based on the real-time knowledge offered by the System of Air High quality and Climate Forecasting and Analysis (SAFAR), the AQI in Delhi was recorded at 481 at 6 am, the worst to date this season. Officers stated it was attributable to “unfavourable” meteorological situations in Delhi-NCR.
An AQI between 0 and 50 is taken into account good, 51 and 100 passable, 101 and 200 average, 201 and 300 poor, 301 and 400 very poor, 401 and 450 extreme, and above 450 severe-plus.
The Centre’s air high quality panel has invoked stricter air pollution management measures for the Delhi-NCR beneath Stage 4 of the anti-pollution plan Graded Response Motion Plan (GRAP), efficient from 8 am at this time. That is along with the preventive actions introduced beneath Stage 1, Stage 2 and Stage 3 of GRAP already in pressure.
The GRAP for Delhi-NCR is split into 4 phases of air high quality: Stage 1 for “poor” air high quality (AQI starting from 201 to 300), Stage 2 for “very poor” air high quality (AQI from 301 to 400), Stage 3 for “extreme” air high quality (AQI from 401 to 450), and Stage 4 for “severe-plus” air high quality (AQI above 450).
The panel – Fee for Air High quality Administration (CAQM) – has urged the general public, significantly youngsters, senior residents and people with respiratory, cardiovascular, cerebrovascular or different continual ailments, to remain indoors.
GRAP 4 In Delhi As Air High quality Worsens
Beneath Grap 4, no vans will probably be allowed into Delhi aside from these carrying important objects or utilizing clear gas (LNG/CNG/BS-VI diesel/electrical). Non-essential gentle industrial automobiles registered exterior Delhi will probably be prohibited, aside from EVs and CNG and BS-VI diesel ones and people carrying important objects.
Delhi-registered BS-IV or older diesel medium and heavy items automobiles are banned, aside from these in important providers.
In-person courses have been suspended for all besides for college students in courses 10 and 12.
All building actions, together with highways, roads, flyovers, energy strains, pipelines and different public initiatives, have been suspended.
Private and non-private workplaces in Delhi-NCR have been really useful to work at 50 per cent capability, with the remainder working from residence. Work-from-home choices can also be launched for central authorities workers.
State governments may additionally shut faculties, restrict non-essential industrial actions and implement odd-even car guidelines.
Round 38% of the air pollution within the nationwide capital this yr has been brought on by stubble burning or farm fires within the neighbouring states of Punjab and Haryana.
Delhi grapples with smog every winter as chilly air traps mud, emissions and smoke from unlawful farm fires.