Delhi chokes, schools in online mode: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has implemented GRAP Stage 3 measures in Delhi NCR from 8 a.m. today as air pollution levels reached the ‘severe’ category. This action is intended to mitigate the effects of extreme air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR) and includes halting all non-essential construction and demolition activities, as well as restricting certain vehicles. Under these restrictions, BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles are now barred from operating within the region.
This year’s pollution crisis has been worsened by seasonal pollution factors, increased stubble burning, and heightened vehicle emissions. As a result, Delhi authorities have escalated interventions to address the situation. To protect students from hazardous air exposure, the Delhi government has also shifted classes for students up to Class V online. Chief Minister Atishi announced on X (formerly Twitter) that online classes for primary school children would continue until further notice due to the persistent severe air conditions.
Impact on Transportation and School Commutes
To reduce vehicular pollution, GRAP-3 has introduced stricter vehicle emission norms. BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles are now restricted in Delhi and surrounding districts like Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Budh Nagar. Diesel Medium Goods Vehicles (MGVs) below BS-III standards, registered in Delhi, are banned from entering the region unless transporting essential goods. Additionally, non-electric, non-CNG, and non-BS-VI diesel inter-state buses from NCR states are prohibited from entering Delhi. Diesel light commercial vehicles from outside Delhi are also restricted unless carrying essential supplies.
This transportation curb could impact school commutes, as many students rely on school buses or chartered buses to travel to and from school. With the restriction on BS-regulated vehicles, these transportation options may be limited in Delhi and adjacent areas.
Understanding GRAP Stages and Triggers
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) operates in stages depending on AQI levels:
GRAP-1: Activated at an AQI range of 201-300, initiating basic measures like public advisories, dust control, and open burning restrictions.
GRAP-2: Triggered when AQI reaches 301-400, involving restrictions on diesel generator use, increased mechanized cleaning, and water sprinkling on roads.
GRAP-3: Imposed once AQI crosses 400, with stricter controls, including bans on non-essential construction, limits on heavy vehicle entry, and the halting of activities in polluting industries.
GRAP-4: The most severe level, enacted when AQI exceeds 450, involves a complete halt on construction, mandatory school closures, and severe vehicle restrictions, including potential odd-even schemes for private vehicles.
Precautions for Students Amid Poor Air Quality
In light of deteriorating air quality, students are encouraged to take several precautionary measures:
Wearing Masks: It is recommended that students wear protective masks, particularly N95 masks, when outside to protect against harmful air pollutants. This precaution is especially important for students with respiratory conditions or heightened sensitivity to pollution.
Using Air Purifiers: Families should consider using air purifiers at home to maintain better indoor air quality, which is particularly beneficial for children with asthma or other respiratory issues.
Staying Updated: Students should regularly check AQI updates and follow any guidelines issued by schools and health authorities. Discussing environmental issues at home can also help students develop awareness and a sense of responsibility toward managing air pollution impacts.
