Check what is allowed and prohibited

Authorities in India’s national capital reimposed tighter restrictions on pollution on Wednesday (January 15), as the air quality index moved dangerously close to the “severe” category. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) of the Union government has introduced restrictions under the Graduated Response Action Plan (GRAP) – stage 4. Earlier, restrictions of the stage 3 of the GRAP had been imposed on Sunday January 12.

The AQI rose sharply to 386 on Wednesday from 275 a day earlier as thick fog enveloped the city, leading to “extremely low mixing height and ventilation coefficient for dispersion of pollutants”, the CAQM said . The panel added that the AQI is expected to cross the 400 mark during the day.

“Accordingly, in an effort to avoid further deterioration of air quality and in accordance with the directions of the Hon’ble Supreme Court, the GRAP Sub-Committee hereby resolves to immediately invoke ALL actions under of phase III (Delhi “severe” air quality) as well as stage IV (Delhi “severe +” air quality) of the existing GRAP schedule, with immediate and serious effect for all). relevant agencies in the NCR of Delhi, in addition to the actions of Stages I and II already underway,” the panel said in its report.

The Supreme Court of India had earlier ordered that Level 4 restrictions should be invoked if the AQI reached the 400 mark.

What is not allowed in GRAP-IV?

Construction activities are prohibited in Delhi-NCR.

Schools in Delhi-NCR to conduct classes in online mode. Workplaces are advised to operate with 50 percent of their staff working from home.

Trucks carrying non-essential goods will be banned from entering Delhi, except those running on LNG, CNG or electricity.

Also read: Fog disrupts flights, train services in Delhi

Non-essential medium and heavy vehicles running on diesel and meeting BS-IV or older norms are banned in Delhi.

Non-essential light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi are not allowed to enter Delhi, except those running on EV, CNG or BS-VI diesel.

What is allowed under GRAP-IV?

Small personal constructions are authorized.

Vehicles carrying essential goods are allowed to enter Delhi.

Also read: Rain lashes Delhi-NCR; IMD predicts dense fog | Check the weekly weather forecast here

Trucks running on LNG, CNG or electric power are allowed in Delhi.

Trucks and commercial vehicles meeting BS-VI diesel emission norms are permitted in Delhi.

(With contribution from agencies)