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    Severe Air Pollution Forces Reimposition of GRAP-IV Across Delhi-NCR

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    According to official monitoring data, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in several parts of Delhi-NCR crossed critical thresholds, with overall readings entering the “severe” range. GRAP-IV is triggered when the AQI exceeds 450, indicating extremely unhealthy air that poses serious risks, especially to children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.

    The region has been struggling with elevated pollution levels for months, driven by a combination of factors such as vehicular emissions, industrial activity, construction dust, and unfavourable meteorological conditions. Although pollution levels had shown brief improvement in late December—leading to the temporary withdrawal of GRAP-IV—the gains proved short-lived.

    Officials said the reimposition of the highest stage of GRAP reflects the urgency of the situation and the need to prevent further deterioration.

    What GRAP-IV Means for Residents

    Under GRAP-IV, the most stringent curbs under the pollution control framework are enforced, in addition to the measures already in place under Stages I, II, and III. The CAQM clarified that all previously notified restrictions will continue alongside the new ones.

    One of the key aspects of GRAP-IV relates to vehicle restrictions. While private vehicle movement is not entirely banned, operations are regulated based on fuel type and emission standards. Vehicles that meet prescribed norms are permitted to ply, but older and more polluting vehicles face strict curbs.

    Specifically, BS-III petrol vehicles and BS-IV diesel vehicles are barred from operating across Delhi-NCR during this phase, except those engaged in essential services. Authorities believe this step can significantly reduce vehicular emissions, which are a major contributor to winter pollution in the capital region.

    In addition to traffic-related restrictions, other measures under GRAP-IV typically include tighter controls on construction activities, enhanced enforcement against industrial emissions, and increased monitoring to ensure compliance with environmental norms.

    Health Advisory and Administrative Vigilance

    Health experts have repeatedly warned that prolonged exposure to “severe” air pollution can lead to aggravated asthma, bronchitis, reduced lung function, and increased risk of heart-related complications. Hospitals in Delhi-NCR often report a surge in patients with breathing difficulties during such episodes.

    Authorities have advised residents to limit outdoor activities, particularly during early morning and late evening hours when pollution levels tend to peak. Schools and institutions have been asked to follow advisories issued by local administrations, including the possibility of shifting to alternative arrangements if conditions worsen further.

    At the administrative level, enforcement agencies have been instructed to ensure strict implementation of GRAP-IV measures. Teams have been deployed to check violations related to vehicle norms, waste burning, and construction dust, with penalties for non-compliance.

    A Recurring Winter Challenge

    Delhi-NCR’s annual winter pollution crisis has become a recurring challenge, with GRAP serving as a reactive framework to tackle emergency situations. Environmental experts, however, continue to stress that long-term solutions—such as cleaner transport systems, better urban planning, and sustained reduction in emissions—are essential to prevent repeated crises.

    While GRAP-IV is designed as a short-term emergency response, its frequent reimposition highlights the structural nature of the pollution problem in the region. Officials acknowledge that weather patterns, including low wind speed and temperature inversion, often worsen conditions during this time of year, limiting the dispersion of pollutants.

    Situation Under Close Watch

    The CAQM has stated that air quality trends will be reviewed daily, and restrictions may be adjusted depending on how conditions evolve in the coming days. Any sustained improvement could lead to a gradual relaxation of measures, while further deterioration may result in even stricter enforcement.

     

    For now, residents of Delhi-NCR are once again navigating life under emergency pollution controls, as authorities attempt to curb emissions and safeguard public health amid a severe air quality episode.

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