Delhi implements GRAP-III as AQI worsens. With the onset of winter, the air quality in the capital has again worsened. It has prompted the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to enforce Stage III of the revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the NCR.
With the Air Quality Index (AQI) consistently in the ‘very poor’ category, the move comes as part of efforts to combat severe pollution levels caused by stagnant meteorological conditions, including calm winds and low mixing heights.
GRAP, a framework designed to counter air pollution, categorizes responses into four stages based on AQI severity. Stage III is activated when AQI levels range between 401 and 450, signaling stringent measures are needed. As of December 13, CAQM has introduced revised restrictions under Stage III to address the deteriorating air quality.
GRAP-III restrictions: What Delhi drivers need to know
One key measure includes a ban on interstate buses entering Delhi, except for those operating on electric, CNG, or BS-VI diesel. This step aims to limit emissions from older diesel vehicles, which are significant contributors to the city’s pollution levels. Additionally, diesel-operated medium goods vehicles (MGVs) with BS-IV or older emission standards are barred from entering Delhi unless they are transporting essential goods.
Restrictions also extend to non-essential diesel light commercial vehicles (LCVs) of BS-IV or older standards registered outside Delhi. Previously, these curbs applied only to BS-III vehicles. In a move to provide relief to specific groups, persons with disabilities are exempted from the restrictions on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles in Delhi and nearby districts like Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Budh Nagar. (Inputs from PTI)
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