New Delhi, Nov 22 (UNI) With Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) remaining in the ‘very poor’ range, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has announced that certain measures from Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) will now be implemented under Stage 3.
The decision comes after the Supreme Court, on November 19, urged the Commission to take proactive steps in consultation with stakeholders to prevent further deterioration of air quality in Delhi-NCR.
According to the revised protocol, two key Stage 4 measures will now apply under GRAP Stage 3: NCR state governments and the GNCTD may allow public, municipal, and private offices to operate with 50% staff strength, with the remaining employees working from home.The Central government may also permit work-from-home arrangements for its employees in Delhi-NCR.
Delhi recorded an overall AQI of 360 on Saturday morning, with forecasts indicating that pollution levels may worsen. The Ministry of Earth Sciences’ Air Quality Early Warning System has predicted that the city’s air quality could slip into the ‘severe’ category and remain between ‘very poor’ and ‘severe’ for at least six days due to stagnant wind conditions and winter inversion.
By 10 am, Delhi’s 24-hour rolling average AQI stood at 361, only slightly lower than Friday evening’s reading of 364, placing the capital dangerously close to the ‘severe’ pollution band.
With GRAP Stage 3 already in effect—restricting non-essential construction and demolition work and curbing the entry of certain vehicle categories, including those below BS-IV norms—authorities have advised residents to limit outdoor activities, especially during early mornings and late evenings.
Earlier this week, the Delhi government also directed all schools and educational institutions to suspend sports and other outdoor physical activities until air quality improves.
