Severe air quality drop forces GRAP-IV in Delhi, schools and offices go hybrid

Delhi once again woke up under a thick blanket of toxic air as pollution levels surged to alarming levels, forcing authorities to activate the strictest emergency measures. With the Air Quality Index sliding deeper into the ‘Severe+’ category, officials have moved swiftly to curb emissions and protect public health across the National Capital Region.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) imposed Stage-IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR on Saturday, just hours after Stage-III restrictions were enforced. Official data showed the AQI worsening from 431 in the afternoon to 441 by evening, signalling a sharp and concerning trend.

According to CAQM, unfavourable meteorological conditions, slow wind speeds, a stable atmosphere and poor dispersion of pollutants led to the rapid deterioration in air quality.

Construction, Mining and Vehicles Face Ban

Under GRAP-IV, all construction and demolition activities have been completely banned across Delhi. Stone crushers, mining operations and related activities have also been shut down throughout the NCR to reduce dust and particulate pollution.

Vehicle restrictions have been tightened, with a ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers across Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddha Nagar.

Schools and Offices Go Hybrid

To minimise exposure, schools up to Class 5 have been directed to shift to hybrid learning. Offices, both government and private, have been asked to operate at 50 per cent capacity, with the rest of the workforce working from home.

Health Advisory Issued

Authorities have urged residents to limit outdoor activities, especially children, the elderly and those with respiratory illnesses.

With Delhi’s air turning hazardous, officials say GRAP-IV is a necessary step to prevent further damage. The situation remains under close watch, and stricter action may follow if pollution levels stay dangerously high.