Delhi AQI turns severe as GRAP Stage III kicks in NCR
Delhi AQI turns severe as GRAP Stage III kicks in NCR
Delhi AQI turns severe as GRAP Stage III kicks in NCR
Delhi's air quality climbs to severe levels as GRAP Stage III is activated across the NCR, with construction bans and stricter curbs to curb pollution.
Delhi's air quality has deteriorated rapidly, with the latest CPCB data showing an AQI in the severe range across several pockets of the NCR. Wazirpur hit 445, Vivek Vihar 444, Jahangirpuri 442, Anand Vihar 439, and Ashok Vihar and Rohini at 437. The numbers underscore a crisis as authorities escalate to GRAP Stage III.
Stage III restrictions across the NCR include a blanket ban on construction and demolition activities in Delhi and surrounding areas, along with tighter curbs on outdoor activities and non-essential travel. The aim is to limit dust and emissions, while officials warned that visibility could remain poor and health risks could spike, especially for the young, elderly and those with respiratory conditions.
This Saturday, Delhi's air worsened to near-immediate levels and the government moved to enforce the higher-level measures within hours, triggering a period of restricted activity until air quality improves. Health experts urged the public to limit outdoor exposure, wear masks, and use air purification indoors where possible.
Meanwhile, on a TV programme, yoga guru Ramdev sparked controversy by suggesting indoor breathing exercises and curtains as a remedy for pollution, calling air purifiers a 'fad of the rich.' He urged people to sit indoors and practice Kapalbhati, a claim that drew mixed reactions given the gravity of the pollution crisis.
Residents and activists say the only real fix lies in cutting emissions, enforcing clean air norms, and lowering construction dust, truck emissions, and stubble burning across the region. With forecasts pointing to persistently poor air for days, authorities say current measures must be followed closely and backed by data.
Cover image source: Delhi chokes as AQI nears 'severe' level 🔗
