Delhi Chokes: schools, offices shift online as air quality plummets

Delhi imposed emergency anti-pollution measures under GRAP Stage-4 after the air quality index (AQI) hit 481 on Monday, classified as “severe plus.” This hazardous level threatens public health, prompting urgent actions.

The Centre for Air Quality Management (CAQM) announced the measures Sunday evening as AQI reached 457. These steps include a diesel truck ban, school closures, and remote working. Authorities aim to curb pollution, especially as smog worsens due to weather and stubble burning.

Key Restrictions under GRAP-4:

1. Truck Entry Ban: Non-essential diesel trucks cannot enter Delhi. Exemptions apply to trucks carrying essential goods or using CNG, LNG, electric power, or BS-VI engines.
2. Vehicle Restrictions: BS-IV and older diesel medium and heavy goods vehicles face a strict ban. Light commercial vehicles (LCVs) registered outside Delhi can enter only if they run on electric or CNG.
3. Construction Halt: All construction and demolition activities, including public projects, are suspended.
4. School Closures: In-person classes are paused except for students in classes 10 and 12.
5. Office Capacity Cuts: Government and private offices operate at 50% capacity, with remote work encouraged.

Pollution Causes
Delhi’s air has worsened over the past week. On Monday, some areas recorded AQI above 500. Experts blame weather conditions, stubble burning, and seasonal smog. Stubble burning contributed to 38% of Delhi’s pollution, with Punjab and Haryana as primary sources.

During winter, calm winds and low temperatures trap pollutants, creating heavy smog. Officials predict smog and low wind speeds will persist until Saturday.

Further Measures
Authorities may consider stricter steps, including odd-even vehicle restrictions, college closures, and halting non-essential business activities if conditions fail to improve.

Delhi continues to battle hazardous air as authorities intensify efforts to protect public health and reduce pollution.