Shruti Suman
As air quality in the national capital continues to deteriorate, the Kejriwal government has implemented various measures to mitigate air pollution. With pollution levels in Delhi-NCR reaching the ‘severe’ category, scientists are warning of a further increase in the next two weeks. The Delhi government has activated GRAP Stage 3, resulting in the implementation of several restrictions. The Air Quality Index (AQI) readings for various areas in Delhi are as follows: 438 in Lodhi Road, 491 in Jahangirpuri, 486 in RK Puram, and 473 around IGI Airport (T3).
Here are the changes that will go into effect starting today:
Additional Delhi Metro Trips:
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced that it will operate an additional 20 train trips across its network from November 3. This move is in response to the pollution control measures aimed at encouraging more people to use public transportation in Delhi. Previously, the Delhi Metro had already added 40 extra train trips on weekdays since October 25 when GRAP-II was implemented.
Closure of Schools in Delhi:
The Kejriwal government has declared that all government and private primary schools in Delhi will remain closed for the next two days from November 3 due to the rising pollution levels. Other states in the National Capital Region (NCR) may also consider suspending in-person classes for children up to Class V and switching to online instruction.
E-Bus Services for Government Employees:
Starting on November 3, the Delhi government will launch a special electric bus shuttle service for state and central government employees. These shuttle services will operate from Kidwai Nagar and RK Puram to the Central Secretariat for central government employees. For Delhi government employees, the e-bus shuttle service will run from Gulabi Bagh to the Delhi Secretariat.
Ban on Construction Activities:
In response to worsening air quality, the pollution control panel of the Central government has issued directives to prohibit non-essential construction work in Delhi-NCR. Under GRAP Stage III, all construction and demolition activities, except those related to essential government projects, mining, and stone crushing, are halted. Additionally, a ban has been imposed on all non-essential construction and demolition work within the city.
Vehicle Entry Restrictions:
As part of the anti-pollution measures, the entry of light commercial vehicles and diesel trucks has been restricted from entering the national capital. Under the restrictions of GRAP 3, BS 3 petrol vehicles and BS 4 diesel vehicles will not be allowed to operate on the roads of Delhi.
