With Delhi's air quality plunging into the ‘severe’ category, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has reimposed Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) starting today. The city's Air Quality Index (AQI) soared from 276 on January 28 to 365 by 4:00 PM due to unfavorable weather conditions, including calm winds, smog, and poor pollutant dispersion.

Key Restrictions Under GRAP-3:

All construction and demolition activities are banned. Non-essential mining activities will remain restricted. BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers are banned. Entry of commercial vehicles into Delhi is prohibited. Schools may shut for students up to Class 5 in Delhi-NCR. Non-electric, non-CNG, and non-BS-VI diesel interstate buses will not be allowed.

Relief on the Horizon?

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast potential rainfall in Delhi by the end of January, which could improve air quality. Two western disturbances are expected—one on January 29 and another on February 1—bringing rain to Delhi and squalls to Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, with actions under GRAP-1, 2, and 3 being reviewed to ensure air quality doesn't worsen further.