Delhi AQI Hazardous Pollution Levels Trigger Emergency Measure
Delhi faced a severe air quality crisis on Wednesday as the Air Quality Index (AQI) surged to hazardous levels. Areas like GTB Nagar reported an AQI of 617, Anand Vihar at 591, and Ashok Vihar Phase 2 at 527. These numbers prompted immediate action under Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
Key Measures Enforced Under GRAP Stage IV
To control the worsening pollution, authorities took several key steps:
Vehicle Restrictions: The Delhi government banned BS-IV and older diesel vehicles, with exemptions only for essential services. Non-essential trucks also faced restrictions on entering Delhi.
Construction and Demolition Ban: Authorities halted all construction and demolition activities to reduce dust pollution, including projects related to public infrastructure.
Work-from-Home Policies: The government decided that 50% of its employees would work remotely. It also encouraged private offices to adopt similar measures to reduce pollution exposure.
School Closures: The government suspended physical classes in most schools, transitioning to online learning to safeguard students from the hazardous air quality.
Public Health and Safety Measures
Health experts recommend several precautions for residents to protect themselves from the harmful effects of pollution:
- Use Air Purifiers: Install high-efficiency air purifiers indoors to improve air quality.
- Wear N95 Masks: Mask up while stepping outside to avoid inhaling fine particulate matter.
- Limit Outdoor Activities: Experts advise staying indoors, especially for vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and people with respiratory conditions.
Additional Measures Under Consideration
Authorities are evaluating further actions, including the potential implementation of odd-even vehicle schemes and the closure of non-essential businesses. These measures aim to reduce pollution even further and protect public health.
This crisis highlights the pressing need for stronger environmental policies, improved urban planning, and better pollution control to ensure healthier living conditions for all.
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