Grap-3 restrictions are being re-imposed in Delhi-NCR as the AQI drops to the ‘severe’ category

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is the Centre’s air pollution plan to be implemented in the region during the winter season

The Central government on Sunday ordered a ban on non-essential construction work and plying of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers in Delhi-NCR, amid deteriorating air quality in the region.

The Commission for Air Quality Management, a statutory body responsible for formulating air pollution reduction strategies for the region and implementing them, noted a significant increase in Delhi’s AQI (458 and 457 at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. hours) due to adverse climatic conditions and local pollution. sources.

Anticipating a prolonged period of poor air quality, the committee has decided to immediately implement GRAP Stage III (‘severe’ air quality index (AQI)) restrictions to prevent further deterioration.

The curbs include a ban on non-essential construction work and driving of BS III petrol and BS IV diesel four-wheelers in the region.

Construction works related to national security or defense, projects of national importance, healthcare, railways, metro rails, airports, interstate bus terminals, highways, roads, flyovers, bridges, electricity transmission, pipelines, sanitation and water supply are exempt from the ban.

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is the Centre’s air pollution plan that is being implemented in the region during the winter season.

It categorizes actions into four phases: Phase I – ‘Bad’ (AQI 201-300); Stage II – ‘Very Poor’ (AQI 301-400); Stage III – ‘Severe’ (AQI 401-450); and Phase IV – ‘Severe Plus’ (AQI>450).

(Only the headline and image of this report may have been reworked by Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is automatically generated from a syndicated feed.)

First print: January 14, 2024 | 2:01 PM IST