Centre invokes GRAP-III norms

The Centre for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Thursday invoked Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) as Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) slipped into ‘very poor’ category, recording a sharp rise to 357 from 297 on Wednesday.

The deterioration was attributed to “calm winds and foggy conditions,” aggravating the pollution levels in the region.

As part of GRAP-3 measures, stringent anti-pollution norms have been enforced across the Delhi-NCR region.

The use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel cars has been restricted. Non-essential diesel-operated goods vehicles that meet BS-IV or older standards are banned in Delhi, classes up to Class 5 are mandated to be conducted in online mode, with students having the option to switch to online learning where applicable, a complete ban has been imposed on non-essential construction and demolition activities. The air quality panel had previously revoked GRAP-III measures on Sunday.