Delhi-NCR to Enforce GRAP-4 Restrictions Amid Worsening Pollution Levels

New Delhi : In a desperate bid to curb the alarming pollution levels choking the national capital, Delhi will enforce GRAP-4 (Graded Response Action Plan) restrictions starting tomorrow. This move, prompted by the deteriorating air quality, includes a ban on heavy vehicle entry and strict curbs on construction activities.

Delhi GRAP-4 restrictions Air Quality Worsens to ‘Severe’ Levels

The decision comes as Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) skyrocketed to 441 on Sunday, firmly placing the city in the ‘severe’ pollution category. Among the country’s most polluted cities, Delhi ranked second, trailing Bahadurgarh in Haryana, which recorded an AQI of 445. Nearby cities, including Bhiwani (AQI 415) and Rajasthan’s Bikaner (AQI 404), also registered hazardous air quality levels, underscoring the region-wide crisis.

Key GRAP-4 Measures

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) announced that the stringent Phase-4 restrictions under GRAP will take effect on November 18, aimed at combating the crisis. The measures include:

Ban on Diesel Trucks

• All diesel-run medium and heavy goods vehicles (BS-IV or lower) will be prohibited from entering Delhi.
• Exceptions will be made for vehicles carrying essential goods.

Halt to Construction Activities

• Construction and demolition projects across Delhi-NCR will face a temporary ban, exempting critical public infrastructure projects.

Restrictions on Private Diesel Vehicles

• Diesel-run private vehicles that do not comply with BS-VI emission norms are likely to face additional restrictions, with guidelines expected soon.

Why Now?

The air quality in 13 key areas of Delhi has breached the 450 AQI mark, signaling a severe health emergency. Prolonged exposure to such hazardous levels can lead to respiratory issues, cardiac complications, and long-term health consequences.

A senior official from CAQM stated, “Given the continuous rise in pollution levels and the worsening weather conditions, it became imperative to enforce GRAP-4 restrictions. We urge residents to minimize outdoor activities and adopt pollution-mitigating measures.”