Delhi-NCR Imposes GRAP-III Restrictions as Air Quality Deteriorates, Schools to Shift to Hybrid Mode

Authorities in Delhi-NCR have implemented Stage III restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) as air pollution levels continue to worsen in the national capital. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) announced the measures with immediate effect after Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 382, placing it in the ‘very poor‘ category.

Under the latest restrictions, schools up to Class 5 have been directed to adopt a hybrid mode of education, allowing students to attend classes either physically or online. The arrangement aims to reduce children’s exposure to hazardous outdoor air pollution. Schools will continue to provide online learning facilities wherever available.

The new measures also introduce vehicle restrictions across Delhi-NCR. BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers will face restrictions in Delhi and neighbouring districts, including Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddh Nagar. Certain categories of vehicles providing essential services will be exempted from the restrictions.

Construction and demolition activities have also come under tighter scrutiny. Non-essential construction work will remain prohibited, while stone-crushing units and mining operations will face restrictions to prevent additional dust and particulate emissions. Authorities have further tightened regulations on older diesel-powered goods vehicles operating in the region. Vehicles transporting essential commodities and providing essential services will receive exemptions under the applicable guidelines.

The implementation of GRAP-III comes as Delhi prepares for Diwali, a period traditionally associated with increased pollution levels. Although the city’s AQI has not crossed the 400-point mark generally associated with the ‘severe‘ category, authorities have decided to introduce stricter measures to prevent further deterioration.

Meanwhile, restrictions already introduced under GRAP-I and GRAP-II will remain in force. These include measures to control road dust, strengthen public transport services and reduce emissions from various sources.