NEW DELHI: With the air quality index (AQI) in Delhi hovering in the ‘very poor’ category, authorities on Friday invoked Stage 3 measures of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the National Capital Region (NCR)to curb pollution and prevent further deterioration.

The AQI in Delhi was recorded at 354 at 4 pm on Friday, continuing an upward trend from 343 at the same time on Thursday. By 6:30 pm, the AQI slightly eased to 350 but remained in the very poor category, underscoring the persistent threat posed by airborne pollutants in the capital.

Reason for the GRAP-3 Activation

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) cited forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology to justify the escalation to GRAP Stage 3. Meteorological conditions indicated:

• Slow wind speeds
• Stable atmospheric conditions
• Unfavorable weather parameters
• Limited dispersal of pollutants

Given these conditions, the CAQM warned that the average AQI in Delhi could breach 400, entering the ‘severe’ category if preventive measures were not enforced.

Measures Under GRAP Stage 3

The sub-committee of the CAQM stated that the decision to implement Stage 3 was proactive, aimed at preventing further deterioration of air quality in the region. This action is in addition to the measures already in place under GRAP Stages 1 and 2, which have been in force across the NCR in response to worsening pollution over the past weeks.

The NCR Pollution Control Boards and other concerned agencies have been instructed to escalate preventive measures, which typically include:

• Restrictions on construction activities
• Regulation of industrial emissions
• Limits on the use of diesel generators
• Curtailing activities contributing to road dust and vehicular emissions
• Strict monitoring of open burning of waste and crop residue

Public Advisory

Authorities have also urged residents, particularly children, elderly, and individuals with respiratory or cardiac conditions, to limit outdoor exposure and adopt protective measures, including wearing masks designed to filter particulate matter.

The CAQM emphasized that GRAP-3 measures are intended as preventive interventions, and strict compliance from industries, construction sites, and civic agencies is crucial to mitigating pollution levels during periods of stagnant weather.

The implementation of Stage 3 curbs highlights the recurring challenges in air quality management in Delhi, particularly during winter months when meteorological conditions, vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and biomass burning collectively contribute to hazardous pollution levels.