Smog Smothers Delhi: Govt Imposes Ban on BS-III, BS-IV Vehicles as AQI Remains 'Severe'

New Delhi: Delhiites woke up to another smoggy morning today (November 16) with most areas across the national capital recording AQI in the "severe" category.

According to data published by the Central Pollution Control Board at 6 am, the AQI in areas like Anand Vihar (436), Ashok Vihar (438), Dwarka (415), and Patparganj (427) continues to be in the 'severe' category.

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predict that this dire situation is likely to continue for the next two to three days amid the absence of strong winds to disperse the pollution.

This year, a combination of factors like stubble burning, and traffic emissions have contributed to the crises intensifying the pollution situation in Delhi-NCR.

Delhi Air Pollution: Stage III GRAP Imposed in NCR

Amid the persistent air pollution in the national capital, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) imposed GRAP Stage III to curb the situation.

The implementation of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage III targets restrictions to curb air pollution, particularly from construction and vehicle emissions. It is imposed after the AQI crosses 400-mark, with strict curbs such as a ban on non-essential construction activities, and restriction on entry of heavy vehicles.

To curb pollution, GRAP-3 imposes restrictions such as earthwork, piling, all kinds of demolition work, and transportation of materials like cement, sand and fly ash.

Govt Imposes Ban on BS-III, BS-IV Vehicle

Following the worsening situation, the AAP-led government in Delhi has now imposed a ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers from Friday, under the GRAP-III. As per the order, violators will be fined Rs 20,000 fine and can face prosecution under Section 194(1) of the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988.

"There shall be no plying of Delhi registered Diesel operated Medium Goods Vehicles (MGVs), of BS-III standards or below, in Delhi, except, those carrying essential commodities/ providing essential services," it said.

Meanwhile, authorities have issued guidelines for the residents and encouraged them to adopt pollution-reducing practices such as working from home if possible, and opting for walking, cycling, or public transport for travel.

The Delhi government has also shifted classes of students up to fifth grade to online mode.