The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) canceled measures under III. phases of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the state capital and is instead concentrating on intensifying its actions under Phases I and II.
The order issued by CAQM said that “AQI in Delhi has been improving since last 3 days and 327 was recorded today. Further, IMD/IITM forecast predicts that AQl will remain in very poor category for the next few days.”
After this consideration, the subcommittee decided to rescind the order of November 11, which applied measures under III. phase (which is carried out when the air quality is “severe”).
GRAP III restrictions that include 50% homework and hybrid school classes have been lifted, Delhi Minister Manjinder Sirsa also announced in this regard.
The CAQM order stated that construction and demolition projects that have been issued closure orders for non-compliance or violation of statutory rules or guidelines will not be resumed operations under any circumstances.
It also directs all concerned agencies to ensure that Stage-I and II actions remain in place and that AQI levels do not fall further to Severe/Severe+.
What was the air quality in Delhi on Wednesday?
A layer of haze enveloped the capital on Wednesday morning as the average air quality index (AQI) at 7 am stood at 337. The AQI around India Gate was recorded at 358, while the AQI near Ghazipur area was 363, according to ANI.
Deteriorating air quality earlier forced the Delhi government to mandate a 50% work-from-home order, including for private offices. Previously, the government generally issued recommendations for private offices regarding work-from-home standards.
“Breach of directions issued under section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 or rules made thereunder shall be punishable under sections 15 and 16 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and other applicable laws,” the environment ministry said in its order at the time.
CAQM’s new order comes after the GRAP measure was moved. Phase 4 measures will now take effect during Phase 3 and similarly Phase 3 measures will come into effect during Phase 2.
