The Centre’s Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has reimposed GRAP 3 restrictions in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) following a significant decline in air quality. The decision, announced on Wednesday, was taken to prevent further deterioration of air conditions, aligning with the directives of the Hon’ble Supreme Court.
CAQM’s Official Statement
In an official statement, the air quality panel declared that all actions under Stage-III (‘severe’ air quality) of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) would be implemented immediately across Delhi-NCR. The existing Stage-I and Stage-II measures will continue to remain in effect. The sub-committee overseeing GRAP assured that it would monitor the air quality situation and review actions accordingly based on updates from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).
Impact on Schools
Under GRAP 3 guidelines, the governments of Delhi and NCR states are required to conduct classes for students up to fifth standard in a ‘hybrid’ mode, enabling both physical and online learning wherever feasible.
The CAQM emphasized that state governments in the NCR may extend hybrid learning provisions to other areas as necessary. However, the option to opt for online education shall remain with students and their guardians.
Air Quality Index Status
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in the national capital entered the ‘very poor’ category with a reading of 330 at 9 a.m., as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The AQI scale categorizes air quality levels as follows:
- 0-50: Good
- 51-100: Satisfactory
- 101-200: Moderate
- 201-300: Poor
- 301-400: Very Poor
- 401-500: Severe
With air quality worsening, authorities are expected to intensify monitoring and enforcement of GRAP 3 measures to mitigate pollution levels in Delhi-NCR.
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