The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Monday invoked Stage-II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR with immediate effect after Delhi’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 324, placing it in the ‘Very Poor’ category.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board’s daily AQI bulletin, Delhi recorded an average AQI of 324 on November 2. The CAQM Sub-Committee reviewed the air quality situation and forecasts from the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology.
The forecasts indicated that Delhi’s air quality could remain in the ‘Very Poor’ category over the coming days. The committee therefore directed authorities to implement all Stage-II measures alongside the existing Stage-I restrictions.
Authorities must conduct daily mechanical and vacuum sweeping of identified roads. They must increase water sprinkling, particularly during night and early morning hours. Agencies must use dust suppressants before peak traffic hours and strengthen pollution control measures at identified hotspots.
The Commission has ordered stricter inspections at construction and demolition sites to enforce dust control measures. Authorities must also expand parking facilities to discourage private vehicle use.
CAQM has directed Resident Welfare Associations to provide electric heaters to security, sanitation and other staff to prevent open waste burning during winter.
The Delhi government and NCR state governments must stagger office timings in Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddha Nagar. The Centre may consider similar arrangements for its offices.
CAQM has urged residents to use public transport, carpool and avoid burning leaves, garbage and biomass. It has directed enforcement agencies to strictly implement all Stage-I and Stage-II measures.
The Commission will regularly monitor air quality and review the situation in the coming days.
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