Schools, Colleges to go Hybrid; GRAP 3 Restrictions imposed in Delhi-NCR amid Air Pollution

The decision comes after the Delhi, NCR experienced a significant dip in air quality, largely attributed to unfavourable meteorological conditions. As of 2 PM on Monday, Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at a concerning 367, which falls in the "very poor" category.

Delhi Air Pollution: As part of Stage 3 of the air quality control measures, the revised GRAP plan mandates that schools and colleges in Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Budh Nagar transition to hybrid classes for students up to Class V. The hybrid mode allows students to either attend classes online or in-person, depending on their preference and availability of online education. This measure aims to reduce exposure to hazardous air quality for young children while ensuring continued learning.

In a decisive move to curb the deteriorating air quality in Delhi-NCR, the Centre's air quality panel on Monday invoked Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The decision comes after the region experienced a significant dip in air quality, largely attributed to unfavourable meteorological conditions. As of 2 PM on Monday, Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at a concerning 367, which falls in the "very poor" category.

Stage 3 Restrictions in Effect Due to Unfavourable Meteorological Conditions

According to an official order, the panel's sub-committee on the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) decided to impose Stage 3 restrictions under the revised GRAP schedule. This action was triggered by the high pollution levels, which are exacerbated by calm winds and low mixing heights. These meteorological conditions, which are prevalent from November to January, hinder the dispersion of pollutants, leading to poor air quality that persists throughout this period. The panel noted that the AQI of Delhi had escalated into the higher end of the "very poor" category, prompting immediate action.

Restrictions on Diesel Vehicles to Reduce Pollution

Stage 3 restrictions also include a ban on non-essential diesel-operated medium goods vehicles that do not meet BS-IV or newer emission standards within Delhi. Furthermore, non-essential diesel light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi, which are also BS-IV or older, will be prohibited from entering the city. Previously, these restrictions applied only to BS-III vehicles, but now the scope has been expanded to include older models of diesel vehicles that contribute significantly to air pollution.

Air Pollution Worsens During Winter Months

Delhi-NCR’s air quality frequently deteriorates during the winter months due to a combination of unfavourable weather conditions and local emissions. Calm winds and low temperatures lead to a phenomenon called "inversion," where pollutants remain trapped close to the ground, causing sustained poor air quality. The Centre's air quality panel has been monitoring the situation closely, with these restrictive measures being part of an ongoing effort to address the growing air pollution crisis.

The implementation of Stage 3 restrictions is a part of the government's broader initiative to tackle air pollution in the region and reduce the harmful effects of poor air quality on public health. Authorities are urging residents to take necessary precautions, including staying indoors and using air purifiers, to minimize exposure to the harmful pollutants.

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