Delhi's air quality has plummeted, triggering emergency measures under GRAP-3. This means immediate action is being taken to protect residents from dangerously polluted air. The situation escalated on Saturday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) soaring into the 'severe' category. At midday, the AQI in Delhi reached 405, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Earlier that morning, the AQI hovered around 390.
During the winter months, Delhi and the surrounding National Capital Region (NCR) implement restrictions based on the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). GRAP divides air quality into four stages: Stage 1 (Poor, AQI 201-300), Stage 2 (Very Poor, AQI 301-400), Stage 3 (Severe, AQI 401-450), and Stage 4 (Severe Plus, AQI above 450).
So, what exactly does GRAP-3 entail? It includes a ban on non-essential construction and demolition activities, as well as stone crushing and mining. Older diesel goods vehicles are also prohibited from entering Delhi. Schools up to Class 5 are shifting to a hybrid mode of learning, and offices in Delhi-NCR may operate with only 50% of their staff.
But here's where it gets concerning: Several areas within Delhi are experiencing alarming AQI levels. Wazirpur is currently the worst affected, with an AQI of 443. Other severely impacted areas include Jahangirpuri (439), Vivek Vihar (437), Anand Vihar (435), Burari Crossing (415), Chandni Chowk (419), Ghazipur (435), RK Puram (404), and Rohini (436). These numbers paint a grim picture, don't they?
Environmental experts attribute this worsening air quality to a combination of factors. Stagnant winds trap pollutants, while vehicular emissions, industrial activity, and seasonal influences like crop residue burning in neighboring states contribute to the problem.
And this is the part most people miss: Health experts warn that prolonged exposure to such high pollution levels can have serious consequences. These include aggravated asthma, reduced lung function, increased cardiovascular stress, and irritation of the eyes and throat.
While flight operations at Delhi Airport are currently normal, low visibility procedures are in place. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for updated flight information. On Friday, the AQI was already at 386, with thick smog and severely reduced visibility reported in areas like Ghazipur and Anand Vihar.
What are your thoughts on these measures? Do you believe they are effective? Share your opinions in the comments below!
