Delhi-NCR Pollution Worsens: AQI Hits 354, GRAP-3 Implemented

• Delhi-NCR's Air Quality Index (AQI) surged from 343 on January 15 to 354 on January 16, pushing the region into the 'Severe' category.
• The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) implemented GRAP-3 across NCR due to low wind speeds and atmospheric stability, which prevent pollutant dispersal.
• GRAP-3 restrictions include a ban on non-essential construction, closure of brick kilns and stone crushers, and restrictions on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles.
• The Delhi government is implementing long-term plans, including increasing public transport, promoting EVs, managing traffic congestion, and expanding metro/RRTS networks.
• GRAP-3 is a precautionary measure aimed at preventing the AQI from escalating further into a health emergency, rather than immediately reducing current pollution levels.

Why It Matters: Delhi-NCR faces severe air pollution, leading to GRAP-3 implementation to prevent further deterioration.