New Delhi witnessed a sharp deterioration in air quality as the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the National Capital Region (NCR) approached the ‘Severe+’ category, prompting authorities to reintroduce the strictest pollution control measures. The Air Quality Management Commission announced the reinstatement of Stage-IV actions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to curb the rapidly worsening conditions.
On Saturday at 4 pm, Delhi’s AQI was recorded at 400, placing it in the ‘Very Poor’ category. Within just four hours, the AQI surged to 428, dangerously close to crossing into the ‘Severe+’ bracket, which begins at 450.
Officials attributed this sudden rise to a western disturbance, unfavourable meteorological conditions, and limited dispersion of pollutants. The sub-committee of the Air Quality Management Commission stated in its notification that to prevent further deterioration, a unanimous decision was made to implement precautionary Stage-IV measures.
These Stage-IV restrictions, first introduced in December 2025, include a ban on non-BS-VI vehicles and those without Delhi registration from entering the city. Entry of non-essential trucks has also been prohibited, although those carrying essential goods and running on clean fuels such as CNG, LNG, electric, or BS-VI diesel have been exempted.
All construction and demolition activities will be completely halted, encompassing public infrastructure projects like highways, flyovers, and pipelines.
To protect vulnerable groups, the Delhi government and NCR states may shift classes from 6th to 9th and 11th grades to online mode. However, 10th and 12th-grade board exam preparations are generally exempted from this shift.
Government, municipal corporations, and private offices have been advised to allow at least 50 percent of their workforce to work from home. Staggered office timings may also be implemented to reduce traffic congestion.
The administration retains the authority to take further emergency measures, including closing colleges, suspending non-essential commercial activities, or enforcing odd-even vehicle schemes. Should conditions worsen, the central government may also direct its employees to work from home.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
Leave a Comment