GRAP-3 restrictions reimposed in Delhi after national capital records ‘very poor’ air quality; AQI shoots above 300

GRAP 3 restrictions: The Centre's panel on Delhi-NCR's air quality on Friday brought back stage 3 curbs under the Graded Response Action Plan amid a rise in air pollution levels owing to unfavourable meteorological conditions, according to an official order.

Delhi's air pollution levels showed an increasing trend and the 24-hour average air quality index (AQI) stood at 371 at 4 pm.

​The Commission for Air Quality Management, responsible for strategising air pollution mitigation in Delhi-NCR, directed authorities in the region to immediately implement curbs prescribed under stage 3 to prevent further worsening of the situation.

According to forecasts from the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, the air quality situation is predicted to deteriorate further owing to unfavourable meteorological conditions.

GRAP Stage 3, which was lifted last Friday, entails a ban on non-essential construction work.

Fog engulfs Delhi

Visuals from the Delhi Airport showed a thick layer of fog engulfing the Airport and surrounding areas on Friday.

Additionally, dense fog was also spotted over Punjab and Haryana on Friday, with the minimum temperature in the region staying near normal levels, according to Met Department officials, reported PTI.

Punjab and Haryana have been experiencing thick fog over the past few days, resulting in reduced visibility in many areas.

In Chandigarh, residents woke up to a heavy fog cover, with the minimum temperature recorded at 10.4 degrees Celsius, which is three degrees above the usual norm.

Classes up to grade V are required to shift to hybrid mode under Stage 3. Parents and students have the option to choose online education wherever available.

Delhi Pollution: What's restricted in GRAP-3

Under Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan, the following would be restricted in Delhi:

1.The use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel cars (4-wheelers) is restricted in Delhi and nearby NCR districts. 

2.Non-essential diesel-operated medium goods vehicles with BS-IV or older standards would are banned.

3. A ban on non-essential construction work.