NEW DELHI: Delhi woke up to a smog-filled morning on November 16, with air quality continuing to hover in the “severe” category. The Central Pollution Control Board’s (CPCB) data recorded AQI levels of 436 in Anand Vihar, 438 in Ashok Vihar, 415 in Dwarka, and 427 in Patparganj. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts that the severe air pollution is likely to persist for the next two to three days due to the lack of strong winds to disperse pollutants.
GRAP Stage III Enforced to Curb Pollution
In response to the worsening situation, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has implemented Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This measure targets major pollution sources such as construction activities and vehicle emissions. Under GRAP-III, activities like earthwork, piling, demolition, and the transportation of construction materials such as cement and sand have been restricted. Heavy vehicles not carrying essential goods are also barred from entering the city.
Delhi Government Bans BS-III, BS-IV Vehicles
To tackle vehicular emissions, the Delhi government has imposed a ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers from November 16. Violators of this rule will face a fine of ₹20,000 under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. The ban also applies to Delhi-registered diesel-operated medium goods vehicles (MGVs) of BS-III standards or below, except those involved in essential services or carrying essential commodities.
Steps to Minimize Impact on Residents
Authorities have urged residents to adopt eco-friendly practices such as working from home, using public transport, or walking and cycling. To protect children from the hazardous air, schools have shifted classes for students up to grade five to online mode. The government continues to monitor the situation closely while appealing to citizens to cooperate in mitigating the pollution crisis.
