GRAP-4 Restrictions Take Effect in Delhi-NCR Region
Environmental authorities have activated the Graded Response Action Plan's fourth stage across Delhi and the National Capital Region. This decisive move aims to tackle severe air pollution levels currently affecting the metropolitan area. The implementation follows deteriorating air quality readings that prompted immediate regulatory action.
What Activities Face Complete Prohibition?
The GRAP-4 measures introduce several sweeping bans affecting daily operations. Construction activities of all types must cease immediately throughout the restricted zone. This prohibition covers both public infrastructure projects and private building work without exceptions.
Heavy commercial vehicles now face entry restrictions into the capital region. Only those transporting essential commodities receive permission to operate during this period. Diesel-powered medium and heavy goods vehicles cannot enter Delhi from other states under the current guidelines.
Industrial operations using coal and biomass as fuel must suspend activities entirely. This includes thermal power plants located within the NCR boundaries, except those supplying power to essential services. The restrictions also extend to stone crushers and mining operations in the region.
Permitted Activities Under Special Conditions
Certain essential services continue functioning despite the stringent measures. Emergency medical services operate without interruption, including ambulance networks and hospital supply chains. Water treatment plants and distribution systems maintain normal operations to ensure public health.
Public transportation services receive exemptions to support mobility needs. The Delhi Metro continues running all scheduled routes, while public bus services operate with increased frequency to accommodate passenger demand. CNG and electric vehicles face no restrictions under the current guidelines.
Essential government projects related to national security and public infrastructure may continue with special permissions. These include railway projects, airport operations, and defense-related construction work that authorities deem critically important.
Enforcement and Compliance Measures
Monitoring teams have deployed across the region to ensure strict adherence to the restrictions. The pollution control boards coordinate with local municipal corporations to implement the guidelines effectively. Regular inspections target industrial zones and construction sites to verify compliance.
Authorities have established helplines for citizens to report violations of the GRAP-4 measures. Penalties for non-compliance include substantial fines and potential operational shutdowns for repeated offenses. The restrictions remain in force until air quality improves to satisfactory levels as determined by continuous monitoring.
Residents should prepare for these changes affecting daily life and business operations. The measures represent the most stringent level of response under the graded action plan framework. Officials will review the situation regularly and adjust restrictions based on air quality monitoring data.
