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The deteriorating air quality in Delhi-NCR has prompted the commission for air quality management to reinstate stage 3 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This decision comes in response to a significant rise in the Air Quality Index (AQI), reaching a concerning 357 at 4 pm on Thursday. This represents a sharp increase from the previous day's AQI of 297, highlighting the rapid deterioration of air quality in the region. The primary contributing factors to this alarming surge are identified as stagnant winds and foggy weather conditions, which trap pollutants close to the ground, exacerbating the already critical situation. The reinstatement of stage 3 restrictions underscores the urgency of the situation and the need for immediate action to mitigate the negative health impacts of prolonged exposure to severe air pollution.
The commission's directive to regional authorities mandates the swift implementation of the stage 3 measures. These measures, which were briefly lifted on Sunday, encompass a range of restrictions aimed at curbing pollution sources. Non-essential construction activities are once again prohibited, significantly impacting the construction industry in the region. Educational institutions are required to implement hybrid learning models for students up to grade V, providing families with the flexibility to opt for online classes if deemed necessary. This approach aims to minimize the exposure of young children to the hazardous air quality. The restrictions extend to vehicular traffic, with a ban imposed on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers in Delhi and the surrounding NCR areas. Exceptions are made for vehicles transporting individuals with disabilities. Similarly, non-essential diesel-powered medium goods vehicles meeting BS-IV or lower emission standards are also prohibited within Delhi.
The GRAP, implemented during the winter months in the Delhi-NCR region, categorizes air quality into four stages based on AQI levels: stage I (Poor, AQI 201-300), stage II (Very Poor, AQI 301-400), stage III (Severe, AQI 401-450), and stage IV (Severe Plus, AQI above 450). The current AQI level firmly places the region in the severe category, necessitating the stringent measures imposed under stage 3. The persistent poor air quality is a complex issue stemming from a confluence of factors. Vehicular emissions contribute significantly, releasing pollutants into the atmosphere. Agricultural waste burning, a common practice in surrounding areas during the harvest season, is another major contributor. Fireworks, often used during festive occasions, also add to the particulate matter in the air. A variety of local pollution sources, ranging from industrial emissions to construction dust, further exacerbate the situation. The cumulative effect of these factors results in dangerously high levels of air pollution, particularly during the winter months when meteorological conditions exacerbate the problem.
The health implications of Delhi's severe air pollution are profound and alarming. Healthcare professionals have drawn parallels between breathing the city's contaminated air and smoking ten cigarettes daily. This stark comparison underscores the significant health risks associated with prolonged exposure. The detrimental effects range from respiratory illnesses to cardiovascular problems, impacting both the young and the elderly. Children and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions are particularly vulnerable. The government's efforts to manage this crisis are critical not only for protecting public health but also for ensuring the long-term economic sustainability of the region. The stringent measures implemented under GRAP stage 3 represent a crucial step in mitigating this environmental emergency, though sustained long-term strategies are essential to address the root causes of Delhi's chronic air pollution problem. The effectiveness of the GRAP and its enforcement remains a key area of concern, requiring continued monitoring and evaluation.
Source: GRAP 3 curbs back in Delhi-NCR as AQI continues to remain in severe category