Delhi Implements GRAP-4 as AQI Exceeds 440: Emergency Pollution Control Measures Activated

The Commission for Air Quality Management cited unfavorable meteorological conditions as the primary cause of Delhi's worsening pollution levels.

Delhi and surrounding areas experienced an escalation in pollution control measures on Saturday, with authorities implementing GRAP-3 restrictions earlier in the day before moving to the more stringent GRAP-4 by evening.

The CAQM had initially imposed GRAP-3 curbs in the afternoon when the Air Quality Index surpassed 400, entering the 'Severe' category. By evening, officials observed the AQI had risen from 431 at 4 pm to 441 at 6 pm, prompting further action.

Under the Graded Response Action Plan, air quality is classified into four categories: Poor (AQI 201-300), Very Poor (AQI 301-400), Severe (AQI 401-450), and Severe Plus (AQI exceeding 450).

The CAQM Sub-Committee released a statement announcing the immediate implementation of all Stage-IV 'Severe+' actions across the entire National Capital Region, in addition to previously activated measures under Stages I, II, and III.

According to the commission, a weak Western Disturbance approaching northwest India was primarily responsible for the deteriorating air quality, rather than local emissions.

The statement explained that current meteorological conditions had caused reduced wind speeds, a shift from westerly to easterly winds, and increased moisture in the lower atmosphere. These winter conditions facilitate smog and fog formation, hindering pollutant dispersion and trapping contaminants near ground level.

Under Stage 4 restrictions, non-essential trucks are banned from entering Delhi, with exemptions only for vehicles carrying essential goods or services and those running on cleaner fuels such as LNG, CNG, electric, or BS-VI diesel. Delhi-registered medium and heavy diesel vehicles (BS-IV and older) are prohibited except for essential services.

Light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi that don't meet EV, CNG, or BS-VI diesel standards are also restricted unless providing essential services.

All construction and demolition activities are completely suspended, including public infrastructure projects like highways, roads, flyovers, power transmission lines, and pipelines.

To protect vulnerable populations, state governments in Delhi and the NCR region may transition physical classes for students in grades VI through IX and XI to online learning, while typically exempting Classes X and XII to minimize disruption to board exam preparations.

Public, municipal, and private offices are advised to operate with at least 50% of staff working remotely, with staggered timing recommendations to reduce rush-hour traffic congestion.

As discretionary emergency measures, state governments can consider additional steps including closure of colleges and educational institutions, suspension of non-emergency commercial activities, or implementation of odd-even vehicle rationing. The central government may also institute work-from-home policies for its employees.