Delhi faces severe smog as AQI soars to 428. Will GRAP 3 be enforced, primary schools shut? Details here
Delhi AQI
India's capital Delhi is under a dense blanket of smog with pollutionreaching dangerous levels. At 8 am on Thursday (Nov 14), the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 428, marking a “severe” level of pollution, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Locals are reporting breathing difficulties, eye irritation, and reduced visibility due to the smog.
Will GRAP 3 be enforced?
As per reports, despite the alarming levels of pollution, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has opted against enforcing Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). If enforced, GRAP 3 would have included measures like halting in-person classes for primary schools and a blanket ban on construction activities.
Meanwhile, the central government, on Wednesday (Nov 13) exempted certain categories of industrial plants from the provisions applicable under Section 21 of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. Sectors like assembly of air coolers, repairing and servicing, assembly of bicycles, and other non-motorising vehicles, bio-fertilisers, cotton, woollen and hosiery making, surgical and medical products assembling and many others are among those given exemptions, provided they notify local pollution control boards.
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According to the official notification: “All industrial plants having pollution index score up to 20 as listed in the Schedule to this notification, subject to the condition that such plant shall inform in writing to the State Pollution Control Boards or the Pollution Control Committees.”
Delhi airport issues advisory
Delhi Airport also issued a statement about the low visibility caused by the smog.
On Thursday, the airport said that even though flight operations currently continue as normal, 'Low Visibility Procedures' are underway and urged passengers to check with airlines for updates.
“Low Visibility Procedures are in progress at Delhi Airport. All flight operations are presently normal. Passengers are requested to contact the airline concerned for updated flight information,” read the advisory.
When will Delhi get relief from smog?
The India Meteorological Department has suggested that increased winds might improve the AQI, but it’s expected to remain in the “very poor” category.
(With inputs from agencies)
