GRAP-3

Delhi's Air Quality Hits 'Severe' Levels: What You Need to Know About GRAP-3!

As Delhi fights against the smog monster, find out how GRAP-3 is changing life in the capital!

The air quality in Delhi has taken a turn for the worse, with the overall 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) soaring above 400, officially leaving residents gasping for fresh air. In response to this alarming situation, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage 3, a stringent set of measures aimed at combating the choking smog that plagues the capital. This marks the second consecutive day that Delhi’s air quality is categorized as ‘severe’, leading to urgent calls for action from authorities before the city becomes an unbreathable gas chamber.

Under GRAP-3, several critical restrictions have been put into place. As part of these curbs, operations have been halted on non-essential construction projects, while the use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles has faced strict limitations. The government is also shifting primary school classes online to protect young lungs from the hazardous air outside. You can practically hear the chatter of parents everywhere questioning how to manage online classes while battling their own work-from-home groceries and gadgets!

As the smog wraps itself around the city like an unwelcome blanket, the implementation of Stage 3 measures is aimed at improving visibility and air quality in a timely manner. There’s a mix of aspects that are seeing changes; public transport systems are restricted, carpooling in cleaner vehicles may become the new trend, and the once-bustling streets might take on a quieter demeanor. Of course, as with any new rule, while some see it as a step forward, others aren't too happy about the impact on their daily commutes.

In an effort to combat these unfortunate conditions, residents are rallying together, sharing tips and tricks on social media about staying healthy and safe in these difficult times. It’s a strange time as we watch Delhi transform into a smoggy version of itself, but moments like these remind us of the resilience of its people. After all, if we can endure the chaos of Indian marriages, surely we can endure a few weeks of adapting to protective measures against pollution!

Interestingly, did you know that each year, air pollution contributes to over 1 million premature deaths in India? Furthermore, studies have shown that poor air quality can lead to serious health conditions such as respiratory diseases and cardiovascular problems. So next time you open your window to let in some of that lovely Delhi breeze, think twice before stepping outside!