GRAP-III Restrictions Reimposed In Delhi-NCR Amid Deteriorating Air Quality

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has reimposed GRAP-III restrictions in Delhi-NCR due to “highly unfavourable meteorological conditions,” including calm winds and low mixing height. The measures come as Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) hit 366 on Monday afternoon, falling into the ‘very poor’ category.

Hybrid Classes and Vehicle Restrictions Imposed

Under GRAP-III, schools in Delhi-NCR must switch to a hybrid class model for students up to Class V. This allows parents and students to choose between online and in-person classes.

Diesel-powered commercial vehicles below BS-IV certification are banned, except those used for emergencies or essential services. Goods vehicles from outside Delhi with engines below BS-IV cannot enter the city. Government offices in Delhi and neighbouring states must stagger working hours, with the central government expected to follow suit for its offices.

Court Criticism Over Delayed Action

The Supreme Court has criticised the authorities for delayed implementation of anti-pollution measures. It questioned the Delhi government and CAQM for not taking stricter actions when AQI crossed the 300 mark. The court noted lapses in enforcing GRAP-IV earlier, including allowing non-essential construction activities and vehicles carrying non-essential goods to operate.

Delhi’s AQI has sharply deteriorated in recent weeks. On December 7, it stood at 233 in the ‘moderate’ category but escalated to 366 within days. The worsening air quality follows annual trends post-Diwali, where banned firecrackers are frequently used, worsening pollution.

The court continues to hear cases on Delhi’s air quality crisis, addressing farm fires, vehicle bans, and delayed government action. It has reiterated the need for proactive measures to tackle the predictable air quality decline during this season.

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