GRAP 3 invoked across Delhi-NCR ahead of Diwali; several areas in 'severe' zone
Delhi has invoked Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) as air quality reaches 'severe' levels ahead of Diwali. Authorities are implementing strict dust-control measures while political finger-pointing continues regarding the causes of the pollution.
Why it matters
It illustrates the recurring public health crisis in India's capital caused by seasonal pollution and the challenges of inter-state environmental policy.
NEW DELHI: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Friday invoked Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR as a precautionary measure ahead of Diwali, amid worsening air pollution in the region.Delhi continued to grapple with hazardous air quality, with the city's average Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 389 in the 'very poor' category at 8am today, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data.Several monitoring stations in the national capital recorded 'severe' air quality levels. IIT Delhi and Rohini topped the list with an AQI of 474 each, followed by Punjabi Bagh at 465, RK Puram at 443, ITO at 422, Firoz Shah Road at 420 and India Gate at 403.Meanwhile, municipal authorities deployed truck-mounted water sprinklers around India Gate as part of dust-control measures.Other areas also reported 'very poor' air quality.
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