New Delhi: Delhi’s air quality has once again deteriorated, prompting a re-enforcement. GRAP-3 (Graded Response Action Plan) in Delhi-NCR region. Today, until December 16, 2024, the GRAP sub-committee under the Commission on Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated measures to control rising pollution levels in the capital. The decision was taken after a significant rise in pollution with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 345 at 7 am, reaching the dangerous threshold of 400.
Check the official notification below
Hybrid classes for young students
One of the major impacts of this pollution spike has been on schools, especially for young students. Under the newly implemented GRAP-3 guidelines, schools have been directed to shift to a hybrid model for children up to Class V. This means parents now have the option to choose between sending their children to school or opting for online classes. This change aims to protect children’s health, especially due to the increased amount of particulate matter in the air.
Additional restrictions under GRAP-3
The reactivation of GRAP-3 has led to several new restrictions in Delhi-NCR. This includes the continuation of measures such as ban on the movement of diesel cargo vehicles, suspension of all construction and mining activities and shutdown of brick kilns and power plants. These steps are to control the emission of pollutants and ensure that the air quality does not deteriorate further.
The reintroduction of GRAP-3 reflects the severity of the air pollution problem in Delhi-NCR, and is expected to continue to impact schools and daily life as long as pollution levels remain high.