The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has taken decisive action by imposing GRAP-III restrictions in Delhi. This move comes as air quality forecasts predict a sharp deterioration to severe levels in the national capital over the next few days.
Immediate Measures to Combat Pollution
CAQM announced the implementation of Stage-III measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on Friday. The restrictions apply immediately across the entire National Capital Region (NCR).
Officials stated that this decision follows careful monitoring of current air quality trends. The committee also considered detailed forecasts provided by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).
Proactive Approach to Air Quality Management
The CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP made this call to prevent further degradation of air quality in the region. Stage-III actions specifically target severe air quality conditions, which occur when the Delhi Air Quality Index (AQI) ranges between 401 and 450.
These new restrictions build upon existing measures already in force under Stages I and II of GRAP throughout NCR. The commission emphasized that this represents a proactive step rather than a reactive response.
What GRAP-III Means for Residents
The implementation of GRAP-III brings several specific restrictions to daily life in Delhi and surrounding areas:
- Increased limitations on construction activities
- Tighter controls on industrial operations
- Enhanced traffic management measures
- Stricter enforcement of pollution control norms
Air quality experts warn that severe pollution levels pose significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations including children, elderly citizens, and those with respiratory conditions.
The commission continues to monitor the situation closely. Further updates regarding air quality conditions and potential additional measures will follow as the situation develops.
