INDIA
This is in addition to the actions under Stages I, II and III of extant GRAP already in-force in NCR.
Delhi Pollution: The GRAP Stage 4 in the entire Delhi-NCR region has been imposed with immediate effect amid worsening air pollution. The Air quality has hit Severe+’ (Delhi AQI > 450). CAQM (Commission for Air Quality Management) has invoked all actions under GRAP Stage-IV in Delhi-NCR in addition to the actions under Stages I, II and III of the extant GRAP already in force in the region.
Keeping in view the prevailing trend of air quality and in an effort to prevent further deterioration of air quality in the region, the CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP decides to invoke all actions as envisaged under Stage-IV of the extant GRAP – ‘Severe+’ Air Quality (DELHI AQI > 450), with immediate effect, in the entire NCR. AQI (Air Quality Index) was around 488 in Anand Vihar, categorised as 'Severe', as claimed by CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board).
Delhi AQI
The AQI was recorded at 488 at 7 pm on Saturday, according to data from the CPCB. The 24-hour average AQI was recorded at 349 (very poor) at 4 pm a day earlier. As of 7 PM, AQI readings were 434 in Ashok Vihar, 496 in Bawana, 457 in Burari, 479 in Chandini Chowk, 394 in IGI Airport, and 445 in Okhla Phase-2. As the GRAP IV measures come into effect, the government is expected to suspend physical classes for students from Class VI to IX, while classes for Class XI and above may be conducted in online mode. On Saturday, the Commission for Air Quality Management invoked Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan. Stage 3 of GRAP includes a ban on construction and demolition activities in Delhi and the NCR.