GRAP-III measures make a comeback as air quality takes a dip across Delhi

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• Delhi enforces GRAP-III measures as air quality nears 'Severe' category.
• AQI rose from 343 to 354; further rise may push it above 400.
• Authorities urge strict compliance and increased monitoring to curb pollution.

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GRAP-III measures were reinforced in Delhi on Friday after the air quality dipped across the national capital.

The air quality dip has triggered concerns that pollution levels may soon slip into the ‘Severe’ category. The Commission for Air Quality Management said on Thursday that the city’s Air Quality Index showed a steady rise, increasing from 343 at 4 pm on January 15 to 354 at the same time today.

Citing forecasts from the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, officials said unfavourable weather conditions are likely to continue over the coming days. Slow wind speeds, a stable atmosphere, poor dispersion of pollutants and other adverse meteorological factors could push the capital’s average AQI beyond 400, placing it in the ‘Severe’ category.

Against this backdrop, the CAQM Sub Committee on the Graded Response Action Plan has decided to invoke all measures under Stage III of GRAP, which corresponds to ‘Severe’ air quality levels of AQI 401 to 450. These measures have been implemented with immediate effect across the entire National Capital Region as a preventive step to arrest further deterioration.

The Stage III curbs will be enforced in addition to the restrictions already in place under Stages I and II of GRAP, which will continue across the NCR. The measures include tighter checks on pollution sources, increased monitoring and stricter enforcement to control emissions.

The CAQM has also instructed Pollution Control Boards in the NCR and other concerned agencies to step up preventive and regulatory actions to rein in pollution levels. Authorities have been directed to ensure strict compliance with GRAP norms and to take prompt action against violators.

Officials said the air quality situation will be closely tracked, with further decisions to be taken based on real time pollution data and changing weather conditions. Citizens have been urged to cooperate and adhere to advisories aimed at reducing pollution.