GRAP-4 Restrictions Again In Delhi; Will Schools Be Closed?

Delhi’s air quality plunged into the ‘Severe+’ category last night as the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossed 400, prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to enforce GRAP-4 restrictions in Delhi-NCR. Earlier in the day, GRAP-3 measures had been implemented when AQI hovered around 379.

The CAQM Sub-Committee called an emergency meeting due to “absolute calm winds and highly unfavourable meteorological conditions.” Following the steep rise in pollution, strict GRAP-4 measures were announced, including a ban on the movement of BS-IV diesel and BS-III petrol vehicles in the city, suspension of all construction and demolition activities, and restricted entry of trucks carrying non-essential goods into Delhi.

Also Read: Nandigram Co-Operative Election: Rivals TMC, BJP United In Local Polls?

For schools, the Delhi Directorate of Education (DoE) has directed institutions to shift classes for students up to Class V to a hybrid model, wherever possible. While the Delhi government is yet to announce additional closures, schools in Noida have already adjusted timings to start from 9 am and are also operating in hybrid mode.

Under GRAP-4, the government may consider suspending physical classes for students in Classes VI-IX and XI. Other measures under discussion include restricting office attendance to 50% and implementing an odd-even vehicle scheme to reduce emissions.

Last month, similar air quality concerns led to severe restrictions, with schools switching to hybrid learning. The situation has also sparked judicial intervention, with the Supreme Court urging both the Delhi government and CAQM to act decisively when AQI levels cross 300.

Also Read: IIT Bombay’s TechConnect 2024 scheduled For December 17 To 19

The deteriorating air quality has once again highlighted the annual pollution crisis in Delhi-NCR, with children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses advised to remain indoors. As authorities grapple with the toxic haze, questions remain about long-term solutions to this recurring problem.