Govt Imposes GRAP Stage-IV in Delhi as AQI Worsens, Know How Restrictions Will Impact You

Commission for air quality management in NCR and adjoining areas on Sunday ordered the imposition of the graded response action plan (GRAP) stage IV restrictions as the air quality index (AQI) in Delhi goes above 400. The highest level of restrictions will be implemented under GRAP-IV from today. 

“The Sub-Committee observed that the AQI of Delhi was recorded at 441 (Severe) at 4:00 P.M on 17.11.2024 and has been gradually increasing further and has already reached Severe+ category...,” said the commission for air quality management in the order on November 17. “Therefore, to prevent further deterioration of the air quality, the Sub-committee decided that all actions as envisaged under Stage IV of the GRAP- ‘Severe+’ air quality (Delhi AQI>450) be implemented,” the order added. 

Delhi chief minister Atishi announced on Sunday that the schools for all students except for those in classes 10 and 12 will remain closed from November 18 onwards, and the classes will run in online mode. 

“With the imposition of GRAP-4 from tomorrow, physical classes shall be discontinued for all students, apart from class 10 and 12. All schools will hold online classes, until further orders,” said the CM. 

What is banned and allowed under GRAP-IV? 

GRAP-IV is imposed when AQI exceeds 450. Under the fourth stage of GRAP, movements of trucks into Delhi will be restricted, allowing only vehicles transporting essential items and services and those operating on LNG/CNG/electricity. LCVs registered outside Delhi other than EVs/ CNG/ BS-VI diesel will not be allowed to enter the capital. The government will follow the running of vehicles on an odd-even basis of registration numbers, etc. 

Construction activities and demolition work for infrastructure projects, including roads, highways, flyovers, bridges, power lines and pipeline installations, will remain suspended under GRAP-IV. The NCR state government is likely to discontinue physical classes and order the conducting of online classes. Moreover, if pollution worsens, the government can announce the closure of colleges and educational institutions and suspend non-emergency commercial activities. 

Additionally, children, the elderly, and those with respiratory, cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, or other chronic diseases are advised to stay indoors.