Is the threat of GRAP-3 averted? Slight improvement in Delhi’s air, but restrictions continue, know today’s AQI

There is some relief news for the people of Delhi-NCR. There was a slight improvement in the air quality, which was hovering near ‘severe’ category for the last few days, on Tuesday. In view of this improvement, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has decided not to implement the most stringent stage of GRAP, i.e. Stage-III, for the time being. However, this relief is incomplete, as the existing restrictions will continue as before.

What was decided in the meeting?

The sub-committee of CAQM held a meeting on Tuesday evening to review the air pollution levels of Delhi-NCR. The figures revealed in this meeting were of some relief:

• Delhi’s average AQI at 10 am 391 Was.
• It will reduce by 4 pm 370 But he came.
• By 5 pm it improved further and AQI 365 were recorded.

In view of this slight continuous improvement, the committee decided that at present there is no need for strict restrictions imposed under Stage-III of GRAP (such as complete ban on construction works, ban on entry of diesel trucks, etc.).

So will Stage-III not be implemented now?

The threat has passed for now, but it is too early to say that Stage-III will no longer be implemented. The committee has made it clear that the situation is being constantly monitored. If the air quality deteriorates again and reaches the ‘severe’ category, Stage-III can be reimposed.

The forecast of Meteorological Department (IMD) and IITM also says that Delhi’s AQI in the coming few days ‘nasty’ Can remain in the same category. Many areas of Delhi like Anand Vihar, Bawana, Mundka and Wazirpur still have AQI above 380, which is close to the dangerous level.

These restrictions will continue for the public

Since the air is still at hazardous levels, the restrictions imposed under Stage-I and Stage-II of GRAP will continue. CAQM appealed to the people to:

• Minimize use of private vehicles.
• Prefer carpooling or public transportation.
• Do not burn garbage or leaves in the open.

Along with this, the Delhi government and municipal corporations have been directed to take dust control measures and continue water sprinkling on the roads. The Commission clarified, “The improvement in the situation is marginal, hence both monitoring and strictness will continue.”