By Admin 
Amidst the increasing cold in North India, air pollution has further increased the problems of the people of Delhi-NCR. Even on Sunday morning, the capital and surrounding areas did not get respite from the poisonous air. The situation is so serious that in many areas the Air Quality Index (AQI) has crossed 490, due to which Delhi has reached the ‘severe-to-severe’ category. Along with this, dense fog has badly affected life.
AQI crosses 490 in Delhi, air becomes poisonous
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), AQI was recorded above 490 in many areas of Delhi at 6 am on Sunday. The entire capital remains in ‘Severe Plus’ category. The air quality in Noida and other NCR areas also remains very poor.
Dense fog, visibility less than 50 meters
Along with pollution, dense fog has also increased the problems of the people. Visibility has been recorded less than 50 meters in many areas, due to which road, rail and air traffic has been affected.
Stage-III and IV of GRAP implemented
After Delhi’s AQI reached 401 on Saturday, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) implemented Stage-III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Later, when AQI increased beyond 450, Stage-IV was also implemented. At present all phases of GRAP are in effect.
Strict restrictions on vehicles
Under GRAP, movement of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers has been banned in Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddha Nagar. Apart from this, entry of diesel trucks of BS-IV or below and non-essential heavy vehicles has been stopped in Delhi.
50% staff in government-private offices, work from home
Delhi Government has issued an order under Section 5 of the Environment Protection Act, 1986, directing 50% of the employees in government and private offices to work from home. Only the remaining 50% employees will work in offices.
Classes in hybrid mode in schools
The government has given instructions to study in hybrid mode for students up to classes IX and XI. However, classes for classes X and XII will continue as normal.
Ban on construction and demolition work
Under Stage-III of GRAP, all construction and demolition works have been banned in Delhi-NCR. There is a possibility that this will affect the livelihood of daily wage labourers. The exemption given to projects like highways, roads and flyovers in Stage-IV has also been withdrawn.
CAQM warning
CAQM said that due to slow wind, stable environment and adverse weather, the pollutants are not being spread. The Commission has advised children, elderly and people suffering from serious diseases to stay indoors and avoid outdoor activities.
Double blow of cold and pollution
On one hand, severe cold and dense fog are troubling people, on the other hand, severe pollution has posed a big threat to the health of the people of Delhi-NCR. Till the situation becomes normal, the administration has appealed to remain alert and follow the instructions issued.