Severe Air Pollution Chokes Delhi-NCR; AQI Touches 428, GRAP Stage-IV Measures Enforced

New Delhi, January 17: Air pollution levels in Delhi-NCR deteriorated sharply on Saturday evening, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) soaring to 428, prompting authorities to implement the strictest curbs under Stage-IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).

According to official data, Delhi’s AQI stood at around 400 at 4 pm and worsened further to 428 by 8 pm. Officials attributed the sudden spike to unfavourable meteorological conditions, including a western disturbance and poor dispersion of pollutants.

In view of the severe situation, the GRAP Sub-Committee of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) ordered the immediate enforcement of all Stage-IV measures across the entire National Capital Region. These restrictions are aimed at preventing further deterioration of air quality and safeguarding public health.

Under GRAP Stage-IV, the operation of BS-III diesel and BS-IV petrol vehicles has been banned in Delhi, except for essential services. Construction activities, including non-essential demolition work, have been halted, while industries operating on non-clean fuels have been directed to shut down temporarily.

Authorities have urged residents to limit outdoor activities, especially children, elderly people, and those with respiratory ailments, as pollution levels remain in the ‘severe’ category. The situation will be closely monitored, and further decisions will be taken based on weather forecasts and pollution trends.