Stage 4 Pollution Curbs Return to Delhi-NCR as Cold Wave Worsens Air Quality
Delhi-NCR chokes Under Smog, Stage 4 Pollution Curbs Reimposed
New Delhi, December 16, 2024 – As a thick blanket of smog descended upon the national capital, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) reimposed the strictest anti-pollution measures, Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), in Delhi-NCR on Monday night. This comes just hours after GRAP III curbs were put in place.
The decision was triggered by a sharp deterioration in air quality, with the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) breaching the 400 mark, plunging the city into the “severe” category.
“Extremely calm winds and the buildup of an inversion layer are adversely affecting the vertical mixing height,” explained a CAQM official, highlighting the factors contributing to the hazardous air quality.
Strict Measures Back in Force
Under Stage 4 restrictions, a slew of stringent measures are enforced to combat the severe pollution:
Construction Halt: All construction and demolition activities, including public projects like highways and flyovers, are banned.
Truck Restrictions: Entry of trucks carrying non-essential goods into Delhi is prohibited.This marks the fourth time in December that Delhi has experienced a dip in minimum temperature below 5 degrees Celsius, with cold wave conditions gripping the city.
Schools Shift to Hybrid Mode
Adding to the woes, the CAQM has directed Delhi and NCR state governments to conduct classes for students from class VI to IX and XI in a hybrid mode, combining physical and online learning.
A Repeat of december’s Struggle
This latest development echoes the air quality crisis that plagued Delhi-NCR earlier this month. On December 5, the Supreme Court had allowed the CAQM to relax GRAP-4 curbs to Stage 2 due to improved AQI levels. Though, the respite was short-lived as pollution levels surged again, forcing authorities to reinstate the strictest measures.
The cold wave conditions are expected to persist, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting a maximum temperature of 24 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 5 degrees Celsius on Tuesday.
NewsDirectory3.com Exclusive: Delhi Gasps for Breath as Stage 4 Pollution Curbs Return
NDTV Staff Writer | December 16, 2024, New Delhi
We spoke with Dr. Anjali Sharma, a leading pulmonologist at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), to understand the severity of the situation and the implications for Delhi’s residents.
NDTV: Dr. Sharma,Delhi finds itself back under Stage 4 pollution curbs. What are the immediate health concerns for residents, especially vulnerable groups like children and the elderly?
Dr. Sharma: It’s a dire situation. The air quality index breaching the 400 mark means the air we breathe is incredibly harmful. Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to respiratory problems, including asthma attacks, bronchitis, and even pneumonia. We’re already seeing a surge in patients with these conditions.
NDTV: What steps can individuals take to protect themselves during this period?
Dr. Sharma: The most important thing is to minimize exposure. Stay indoors as much as possible, especially during peak pollution hours. When you do venture out,wear a good quality N95 mask.
NDTV: What are your thoughts on the effectiveness of the Stage 4 curbs?
Dr. Sharma: While these measures are necessary, they are a reactive solution. We need long-term, lasting strategies to address the root causes of air pollution. Investing in public transport, encouraging electric vehicles, and controlling industrial emissions are crucial steps.
NDTV: Do you see this situation improving in the near future?
Dr. Sharma: unluckily, with the persistent cold wave conditions and ongoing stubble burning in neighboring states, I don’t anticipate a quick resolution. We need to be prepared for a prolonged period of poor air quality. our focus must be on protecting public health and demanding long-term solutions from our policymakers.