Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Delhi woke up to another day of dense smog and reduced visibility on Friday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) remaining in the ‘Severe’ category. The hazardous air quality has prompted the central pollution authority to enforce Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), imposing stringent restrictions across the city and surrounding NCR regions.
Fresh Restrictions Under GRAP Stage III
Effective from 8 AM on Friday, GRAP Stage III restrictions include:
•A complete ban on construction and demolition activities.
•Restrictions on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles across Delhi and NCR.
•Enhanced enforcement of pollution control measures at industrial and vehicular levels.
Schools Shift Online
To protect children from the extreme pollution levels, the Delhi government has directed primary schools to suspend in-person classes. Only online sessions will be conducted until further notice.
Projected Air Quality
According to the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), AQI levels are expected to remain in the ‘Very Poor’ range until November 17, with this pattern likely to persist for at least six more days. The smog, coupled with reduced visibility, has intensified concerns about public health and road safety.
Impact on Aviation
Anticipating prolonged poor visibility, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has advised airlines to ensure their aircraft and pilots are equipped for CAT II/III low-visibility landings. Airports in Delhi, Lucknow, Jaipur, and Amritsar are particularly affected by these advisories.
