The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), the Centre’s panel that monitors Delhi-NCR’s air quality, on Friday called for the suspension at Stage 3 under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Is it because the city’s air pollution levels have increased due to unfavorable weather conditions?

Delhi’s 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 371 at 4 pm. According to forecasts by the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, the air quality situation is predicted to worsen due to weather conditions.

The CAQM asked the area authorities to immediately implement the restrictions set under Stage 3 to prevent deterioration in the city’s air pollution.

Last week, the CAQM canceled the Stage 3 containment under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) as rains have reduced pollution levels in the national capital and adjoining areas. The decision was taken after Delhi’s air pollution levels showed a downward trend last week and the 24-hour average air quality index (AQI) stood at 324.

Also Read: Delhi Pollution: CAQM cancels GRAP 3 measures as rain improves air quality

The Supreme Court has directed the Anti-Pollution Body and the Delhi government to implement Phase III measures of GRAP if the AQI exceeds 350 and Phase IV measures if it exceeds 400. be reintroduced.

Also Read: Delhi-NCR Air Pollution: What is AQI and how does a high AQI of 500 affect your health in the long run?

GRAP Phase 3 prohibits non-essential construction works.

Classes up to level 5 need to move to hybrid mode under stage 3. Parents and students have the option to choose online education wherever available.

Under Stage 3, the use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel cars (4-wheelers) is banned in Delhi and nearby NCR districts. Persons with disabilities are exempt.

Phase 3 also bans non-essential diesel-powered medium goods vehicles with BS-IV or older standards in Delhi.