The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Saturday invoked the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)-4 curbs in Delhi-NCR amid “severe” air quality according to officials.
The move comes a day after GRAP III measures were implemented in the region.
“The AQI of Delhi, which was recorded as 400 on Saturday at 4 PM, exhibited a sharp increasing trend and has been recorded at 428 at 8 PM owing to a western disturbance, highly unfavourable weather and meteorological conditions, and lack of dispersal of pollutants,” a senior CAQM official said.
The official added, “Keeping in view the prevailing trend of air quality and relevant factors and in an effort to prevent further deterioration of air quality in the region, the CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP unanimously decides to invoke all actions as envisaged under Stage-IV of extant GRAP – 'Severe ' Air Quality (DELHI AQI > 450), with immediate effect, in the entire NCR, as a proactive measure.”
What's allowed
Enforcement of PUCC Requirement
All petrol, diesel, and CNG outlets in the National Capital Territory of Delhi will supply fuel only to vehicles that present a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC). Vehicles identified through ANPR systems or other means and found refuelling without a valid PUCC will be liable for penalties. Verification of PUCC status may be done using physical certificates, ANPR, or electronic databases such as VAHAN or any other centralised system, wherever applicable.
Exemptions
These provisions will not apply to emergency vehicles on sovereign duty, such as ambulances, fire tenders, and police vehicles, or to vehicles carrying essential commodities or providing essential services as notified by the competent authorities.
What's restricted
Entry restrictions on vehicles registered outside Delhi
During the implementation of GRAP Stage IV (severe+), motor vehicles registered outside the NCT of Delhi and not meeting BS-VI emission norms will be prohibited from operating within Delhi. Exemptions will apply to CNG- or electric-powered vehicles, public transport, and vehicles transporting essential goods or providing essential services.
Restrictions on vehicles carrying construction materials
While GRAP Stage IV (severe+) is in force, vehicles transporting construction materials, including sand, aggregates, stone, bricks, cement, ready-mix concrete, debris, or similar items, will not be allowed to enter the NCT of Delhi. Any such vehicle found in violation during GRAP Stage IV will be subject to strict penalties or seizure in accordance with existing rules.
Under GRAP, air quality is classified into four categories: ‘poor’ with an AQI of 201–300, ‘very poor’ with an AQI of 301–400, ‘severe’ with an AQI of 401–450, and ‘severe plus’ when the AQI exceeds 450.
