Relief measures for motorists and construction activities are now in effect across the National Capital Region (NCR) after the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Wednesday decided to revoke the stringent Stage 3 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This decision follows a marked improvement in the region's air quality over the last three days.
The 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) for Delhi was recorded at 327. This figure places the air quality in the 'Very Poor' category, a notch below the 'Severe' level (AQI 401-450) that triggers Stage 3 measures. The GRAP framework, implemented during the winter months, classifies 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).
What vehicles are now allowed?
With the lifting of Stage 3, a significant restriction has been removed: the ban on plying BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles in Delhi is now officially suspended. However, the CAQM has issued a clear directive that actions under the less severe Stage 1 and Stage 2 of the modified GRAP, which was notified on November 21, will remain strictly in force.
Under Stage 1, agencies focus on stricter action against polluting vehicles, proper solid waste management, a complete ban on open burning, and enhanced mechanical road sweeping and water sprinkling, along with tighter dust-control checks at construction sites. Citizens are also urged to rely more on public transport. With the air quality currently in the ‘Very Poor’ range (AQI 327), Stage 2 adds further steps such as more frequent road cleaning, ensuring uninterrupted power supply to avoid diesel generator use, temporarily increasing parking fees to reduce private vehicle dependence, and stricter penalties for non-compliant construction sites.
Discover everything about the automotive world at Times of India.
Start a Conversation
Post comment