The Delhi government has reimposed stricter anti-pollution measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-III) as the city’s air quality continues to deteriorate. The measures, which came into effect immediately, aim to reduce pollution levels and mitigate the adverse effects of poor air quality on public health.
One of the key measures under GRAP-III is the implementation of a hybrid mode of education for students up to Class 5. This means that schools will adopt a combination of online and offline classes to minimize the exposure of young children to polluted air. Additionally, the government has banned construction activities, except for essential projects, and has restricted the entry of trucks into the city.
The Delhi government has also instructed government offices and private establishments to adopt work-from-home options for at least 50% of their staff. This measure is aimed at reducing the number of vehicles on the road and minimizing the emission of pollutants. Furthermore, the government has increased the deployment of buses and has encouraged the use of public transport to reduce reliance on personal vehicles.
The reimposition of GRAP-III measures is a clear indication of the severity of Delhi’s air pollution crisis. The government’s efforts to mitigate the problem are crucial, and it is essential for citizens to cooperate and adopt environmentally friendly practices to reduce their carbon footprint.
The Delhi government’s decision to reimpose GRAP-III measures is a step in the right direction, but it is only the beginning. Sustained efforts are required to address the root causes of air pollution and to ensure that Delhi’s air quality improves significantly over time.