The ban on construction work related to linear public projects in Delhi-NCR was revoked on Saturday after air quality improved. The entry of polluting trucks and commercial four-wheelers was also allowed in the national capital.
These measures constitute the final stage, Stage IV, of the Centre's air pollution control plan, which is activated at least three days before the Air Quality Index (AQI) surpasses the 450-mark in the capital.
The Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas (CAQM), a statutory body responsible for formulating strategies to combat pollution in the region, asked Delhi and NCR states to revoke all emergency measures, which allow only CNG, electric and BS VI-compliant vehicles from other states to enter Delhi, with exemptions granted to those involved in essential services.
All medium and heavy goods vehicles not engaged in essential services were also banned in the capital under Stage IV of GRAP, according to the latest CAQM order.
Air Quality improves in Delhi-NCR
On Saturday, Delhi’s air quality improved slightly as the city woke up to ‘Very Poor’ air quality with overall AQI at 398, a change from persistent ‘Severe’ category for the last few days. The visibility on the roads at around 7 am remained low with the layer of smog continuing to cover the national capital. Delhi had witnessed ‘Severe’ air quality for four days, from November 14 to 17 post-Diwali celebrations in the region.
ALSO READ | Delhi air quality improves slightly into ‘Very Poor’ category, AQI at 398
