Air may turn ‘Severe’, GRAP 3 curbs imposed, Pg6

Key Highlights:

• CAQM invoked GRAP Stage III in Delhi-NCR on Friday due to worsening air quality.
• Delhi's AQI rose to 354 ('Very Poor') on Friday from 343 on Thursday.
• Minimum temperature in Delhi rose slightly to 4.3 degrees Celsius, still below normal.
• GRAP III measures include hybrid schooling and restrictions on certain vehicles.
• IMD forecasts further deterioration in AQI due to unfavorable weather.

Detailed Insights:

• GRAP is a set of emergency measures to reduce air pollution based on AQI levels.
• Stage III of GRAP includes stricter curbs like a ban on BS-III petrol and diesel vehicles.
• The restrictions also target BS-IV diesel LCVs registered outside Delhi, except essential services.
• Older commercial diesel vehicles are completely banned from entering Delhi, regardless of goods.
• The decision was prompted by forecasts predicting a slide into the 'Severe' category.

Key Concepts Involved:

• AQI (Air Quality Index): A measure of air quality based on pollutants.
• GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan): A set of measures to combat air pollution.
• BS (Bharat Stage) Emission Standards: Standards set by the government to regulate air pollutants from motor vehicles.