Delhi NCR has once again witnessed a spike in air pollution, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching the hazardous levels of 401-450. This alarming situation has prompted immediate action from the Delhi Government, led by Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot, who has announced the reimplementation of GRAP III regulations.
🚫 Ban on BS3 Petrol and BS4 Diesel Vehicles
In response to the deteriorating air quality, BS3 petrol and BS4 diesel vehicles have been banned from the roads of Delhi NCR and its surrounding regions. This decision follows the guidelines issued by the Air Quality Index Management Commission (CQM) last month, outlining the implementation of the revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) under specific conditions.
💰 Heavy Fines for Violators
Effective from December 22, 2023, the GRAP III restrictions will remain in force until further notice. However, exceptions have been made for emergency services, police vehicles, and government vehicles enforcing these regulations. Violators found flouting these norms will face a hefty fine of ₹20,000 under Section 194 (1) of the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988.
📆 Implementation from December 22
The CQM sub-committee, formed to enforce GRAP’s actions, has conducted a comprehensive review of the AQI in the Delhi NCR region, along with weather conditions provided by IMD/LLTM and air quality forecasts.
It was observed that from 10:00 AM on December 22, 2023, there was a significant rise in AQI, recording 402 at 2:00 PM in Delhi, with an average AQI of 409 by 4:00 PM. Poor weather and climate conditions have been identified as the main contributors to this spike, with expectations of further deterioration.
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