January 25, 2024 Delhi’s average air quality index (AQI) breached the 400-mark on Wednesday, signaling very poor air quality, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The AQI categories range from ‘good’ (0-100) to ‘severe’ (400-500 or above). While the very poor air quality prevailed, the Centre decided to monitor the situation for a day or more before considering stricter measures under Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
The sub-committee of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) reviewed the current air quality scenario, meteorological conditions, and forecasts by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).
Based on the projections that Delhi’s average AQI is likely to improve, the sub-committee unanimously opted to observe the situation before invoking Stage III of GRAP. Ongoing preventive and restrictive actions from Stages I and II of GRAP will continue, and the sub-committee will closely monitor the situation for further decisions.
Stage 3 curbs, if imposed, include a ban on non-essential construction work and the operation of BS III petrol and BS IV diesel four-wheelers in Delhi-NCR. The decision to impose or lift GRAP restrictions will be based on real-time air quality data and forecasts to ensure effective air pollution control measures.
As dense fog affected parts of Delhi, several flights experienced delays at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted moderate fog until January 26 in the National Capital, with foggy conditions expected on January 27 and 28. Additionally, dense to very dense fog conditions were forecasted for the morning hours over parts of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Uttar Pradesh until January 26.