Delhi’s air quality remains in the ‘severe’ category, but GRAP-3 measures are yet to be implemented. Environment Minister Gopal Rai explains why Delhi is holding back on stricter anti-pollution controls.
Delhi Faces Severe Smog but Holds Back on GRAP-3 Anti-Pollution Measures: Here’s Why
Delhi is once again battling dangerously high pollution levels as the Air Quality Index (AQI) crosses into the ‘severe’ category. Despite dense smog and worsening air quality, the Delhi government has decided not to activate the third phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-3) yet. Environment Minister Gopal Rai clarifies the reasons behind this decision, citing potential improvements in air quality in the coming days.
Delhi’s Alarming Air Quality Levels Delhi’s air quality has hit hazardous levels, maintaining its ‘severe’ status for a second consecutive day. On Thursday, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported an AQI of 428 at 9 a.m., with several monitoring stations across the city recording AQI values above 400. Popular areas such as Anand Vihar, IGI Airport, Mandir Marg, and Patparganj noted some of the season’s highest pollution levels, placing Delhi as the most polluted city in India.
Delhi smog severe air quality conditions.
Why GRAP-3 Measures Are on Hold
While Delhi’s air quality is in the ‘severe’ category, Environment Minister Gopal Rai shared insights on why GRAP-3 measures are not yet being implemented. “We expect improvements in pollution levels starting tomorrow. Until then, we are strictly enforcing GRAP-2 measures to control pollution levels and prevent the need for escalation,” he explained. Rai emphasized that the Delhi government is prepared to impose GRAP-3 restrictions if pollution remains in the ‘severe’ range over the coming days.
Causes of Delhi’s Severe Smog and Pollution Levels
- Low Wind Speeds: The lack of sufficient wind movement has allowed pollutants to accumulate in the atmosphere.
- Temperature Drops: Snowfall in the mountains has lowered temperatures across North India, causing drier conditions conducive to smog formation.
- Morning and Evening Fog: These factors, combined with dense fog, have intensified air quality problems in the region.
GRAP-2 Measures in Effect: What It Means for Delhi Residents
Currently, the Delhi government has mandated GRAP-2 rules, which include restrictions on specific construction activities, limits on diesel generator usage, and an increase in water sprinkling on roads to reduce dust. Strict enforcement of these measures aims to control pollution levels without advancing to GRAP-3.
Severe Pollution and Visibility Issues Affecting Daily Life
The severe smog has also led to visibility issues, especially in the early morning hours. On Thursday, visibility dropped to as low as 400 meters at Delhi Airport, affecting flight operations until conditions slightly improved later in the day. The city’s minimum temperature also fell to 16.1°C, contributing to the fog and smog blanket that hangs over Delhi.
Upcoming Supreme Court Hearing on Delhi’s Pollution Crisis
November 18. This move comes as environmental concerns mount amidst Delhi’s critical air quality situation, with citizens calling for more immediate and effective action.
As Delhi continues to grapple with hazardous air quality, the government’s decision to delay GRAP-3 measures has stirred public interest. Environment Minister Gopal Rai’s assurance that pollution levels may improve offers some hope. However, with visibility challenges and health risks due to severe smog, Delhi residents are closely watching for any signs of improvement and additional government intervention.
