Delhi-NCR is once again battling a public health emergency as authorities triggered Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) after air pollution levels breached the most dangerous threshold. The decision came amid rapidly worsening conditions, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing 450, placing the region in the ‘Severe+’ category.
The move marks the strictest level of pollution control, bringing sweeping curbs across construction, transport, industry, and daily activity. These emergency measures aim to prevent further deterioration as meteorological conditions continue to work against pollutant dispersion.
Why GRAP Stage IV Was Enforced So Quickly?
Just hours after Stage III restrictions were reimposed, pollution levels surged sharply overnight. According to official data, Delhi’s AQI jumped from 349 on Friday evening to over 400 by Saturday morning.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) cited slow wind speeds, stable atmospheric conditions, and unfavourable weather patterns as key factors trapping pollutants close to the ground.
In its official statement, the CAQM sub-committee said Stage IV measures were invoked with immediate effect in the entire NCR, adding that these actions would operate in addition to restrictions already in force under GRAP Stages I, II, and III.
AQI Hotspots: Areas Breathing the Worst Air
Several parts of Delhi recorded alarming AQI levels well above the severe mark, triggering serious health concerns.
As per official readings:
- Anand Vihar: 488
- Bawana: 496
- Chandni Chowk: 479
- Burari: 457
- Ashok Vihar: 434
- Okhla Phase-2: 445
- IGI Airport area: 394
Wazirpur emerged as one of the worst-affected zones, followed closely by Vivek Vihar, Jahangirpuri, and Anand Vihar, all hovering near or above the severe threshold.
Dense Smog Blankets Delhi and Neighbouring States
A thick layer of smog enveloped the capital, reducing visibility and intensifying respiratory distress. The pollution crisis was not confined to Delhi alone.
Parts of Uttar Pradesh, including Noida, reported AQI levels close to 450, while cities like Bulandshahr, Ayodhya, and Mainpuri experienced poor visibility due to fog mixed with pollution.
Under Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) standards, an AQI between 401 and 500 is categorised as severe, posing serious health risks, especially to children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or cardiac conditions.
What Is Banned Under GRAP Stage IV?
Stage IV imposes the toughest restrictions to curb emissions immediately.
Construction and Industrial Activities
- Complete ban on all construction and demolition work
- No earthwork, excavation, piling, or structural activity
- Shutdown of stone crushers, brick kilns, hot mix plants, and mining operations
- Prohibition on industries using coal, furnace oil, or any unapproved fuels
Vehicles and Transport
- Entry of diesel-powered medium and heavy goods vehicles into Delhi, except those carrying essential goods
- Ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers
- Non-essential inter-state diesel buses not compliant with BS-VI, CNG, or electric norms are not allowed
Other Restrictions
- Use of diesel generator sets banned, except for essential and emergency services
- Absolute prohibition on open burning, including waste and biomass
- Any activity that may increase dust or emissions is strictly restricted
What Remains Allowed During GRAP Stage IV?
Despite the strict clampdown, essential services and critical infrastructure continue to function.
Essential Infrastructure and Services
- Construction related to metro, railways, airports, highways, defence, healthcare, and sanitation
- Emergency repair and maintenance work, subject to strict dust-control measures
Transport and Mobility
- Electric, CNG, and BS-VI compliant vehicles
- Public transport services, including buses and metro
- Vehicles used by persons with disabilities
Education and Offices
- Schools may shift to online or hybrid classes, particularly for younger students
- Offices advised to reduce on-site staff and promote work-from-home wherever possible
Utilities and Emergency Operations
- Power generation units supplying electricity
- Diesel generators permitted for hospitals, data centres, telecom services, and emergencies
Health Advisory: Why Residents Must Stay Alert
Medical experts warn that prolonged exposure to Severe+ air can lead to aggravated asthma, bronchitis, reduced lung function, eye irritation, and increased cardiovascular risk. Authorities have urged residents to limit outdoor activity, wear masks, and seek medical help if symptoms worsen.
Enforcement agencies have been directed to intensify checks and ensure zero tolerance for violations. The continuation of GRAP Stage IV will depend on how quickly pollution levels respond to the curbs and whether weather conditions improve.
For now, Delhi-NCR remains on high alert, grappling with yet another reminder of how fragile the region’s air quality has become.
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Akanksha Sinha
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