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New Delhi: The Air Quality Index (AQI) in key areas of Delhi was recorded under the “severe” category on Saturday morning. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), areas such as Alipur recorded an AQI of 433, Anand Vihar recorded 436, and Ashok Vihar recorded 438 as of 6 am. With the deteriorating air quality, the Delhi government imposed Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage-III restrictions on Friday.
GRAP Stage-III Updates –
Under GRAP Stage-III, the following measures have been implemented to combat severe air pollution:
– Vehicle Restrictions: Private BS III petrol and BS IV diesel vehicles are banned.
– Interstate Buses: Entry of non-electric and CNG buses from other states is prohibited.
-Construction Activities: Certain categories of construction activities are restricted.
– Staggered Office Timings: Government office timings have been adjusted to ease traffic congestion.
These restrictions were announced by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Thursday.
AQI Levels in Delhi –
On Friday, the air quality index in Delhi was recorded at 411 (severe) at 9 a.m., according to official data. However, with wind speed picking up, the average 24-hour AQI decreased to 396 by 4 p.m., falling into the "very poor" category.
Other Measures Announced –
Delhi Chief Minister Atishi announced staggered office timings to ease traffic congestion amid the severe pollution levels. In a post on X, the CM detailed the new timings:
– Central government offices: 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
– Delhi government offices: 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
– Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) offices: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Additionally, as Delhi's air quality has been in the "severe" category for the last two days, the government has implemented the following measures to promote public transport:
– Shuttle Buses: 106 shuttle buses will operate across the city.
– Metro Services: Metro trains will make 60 additional trips daily.
– Government Transportation: 40 dedicated shuttle buses will transport government officials across the city to discourage the use of private vehicles, according to a PTI report.
(With inputs from PTI)