Delhi’s air quality has once again reached severe levels, prompting the government to take stringent actions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage-III. The decision was taken after Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached a concerning 428 on the morning of November 14, 2024. With the pollution levels continuing to rise, the Delhi government has implemented immediate measures to protect public health, especially that of children.
Primary Schools Shut, Online Classes to Begin
In light of the hazardous air quality, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi announced the closure of all primary schools in the city. Students up to Class 5 will now transition to online classes until further notice. In her X post, CM Atishi confirmed the decision:
“As pollution levels rise, all primary schools in Delhi are starting online classes till further instructions.”
This decision comes as part of the city’s efforts to safeguard the health of schoolchildren, who are particularly vulnerable to the effects of air pollution.
What is GRAP Stage-III?
GRAP Stage-III is invoked when the AQI reaches the “severe” category, which in Delhi is classified as an AQI reading of 401-450. This stage includes several critical measures to curb pollution, as outlined below:
- Construction and Demolition: All construction and demolition activities will be halted to reduce dust and particulate matter in the air.
- Mining Activities: Non-essential mining activities will be stopped to prevent further pollution.
- Vehicle Restrictions: Vehicles that do not meet BS-6 standards, including non-electric, non-CNG, and non-BS-6 diesel interstate buses, will be banned from operating.
- School Closures: Primary schools are closed, and online classes are being encouraged as a temporary solution.
Air Quality Levels (AQI Classification)
The AQI is a measurement used to assess the quality of the air in a particular region. Here’s how the AQI is classified:
- Stage I – ‘Poor’ (AQI 201-300)
- Stage II – ‘Very Poor’ (AQI 301-400)
- Stage III – ‘Severe’ (AQI 401-450)
- Stage IV – ‘Very Severe’ (AQI >450)
As Delhi’s AQI surpassed 400, the city entered Stage-III, signaling the urgent need for drastic measures.
Measures Taken in Previous Years
This is not the first time Delhi has faced severe air pollution levels. Over the years, similar actions have been taken, such as:
- Odd-Even Scheme: Restrictions on private vehicles based on odd and even license plate numbers.
- Dust Control Measures: Spraying water on roads to reduce dust.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Encouraging people to limit outdoor activities and use masks.
Future Outlook
As Delhi continues to battle severe air pollution, the government has emphasized the importance of collective efforts to improve air quality. In the coming days, more measures may be introduced depending on the AQI levels, and the situation will be closely monitored.
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