New Delhi Travel Restrictions Under GRAP-3: What You Need To Know

Delhi is currently experiencing severe air pollution, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching hazardous levels of 428, categorized as "severe."

In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has implemented stringent restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage 3.

Photo Credit: PTI

These measures, starting from 8 AM on Friday, aim to curb pollution levels and protect public health. Here's a detailed look at the key travel-related curbs:

1. Expansion of Delhi Metro Services

• Additional Trips: To provide a more efficient public transport option, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced 20 additional trips on weekdays starting from Friday. This is in addition to the 40 extra trips already operational under GRAP-2.
• Total Extra Trips: With these new additions, a total of 60 extra Delhi Metro trips will be available on weekdays during GRAP-3. This move aims to encourage people to use public transport instead of private vehicles, reducing road congestion and lowering vehicular emissions, which are significant contributors to pollution.

2. Vehicle Restrictions

• Prohibited Vehicles: The restrictions under GRAP-3 specifically target high-polluting vehicles. BS-III petrol vehicles and BS-IV diesel vehicles will be restricted from entering Delhi and neighboring areas, including Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Budh Nagar. These older vehicles emit higher levels of pollutants, contributing significantly to the worsening air quality.
• Allowed Vehicles: The following vehicles will continue to be allowed on the roads:
• Electric Vehicles (EVs): EVs are exempt from the restrictions as they do not produce direct emissions.
• CNG Vehicles: Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles, which are considered more environmentally friendly than traditional petrol and diesel vehicles, are also permitted.
• BS-VI Diesel Buses: These buses, equipped with the latest emission standards, will be allowed to operate and are seen as a more sustainable mode of public transport.

3. Inter-State Bus Ban

• All inter-state buses from states in the National Capital Region (NCR) will be prohibited from entering Delhi during GRAP-3. This is a measure to reduce the influx of additional vehicles into an already congested city and further lower emissions. It also aims to reduce the overall vehicle count on the road during this critical period.

4. What is GRAP-3 and Why Was It Imposed?

• Stages of GRAP: The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) categorizes air quality in Delhi into four stages based on AQI levels:
• Stage 1 (Poor): AQI between 201-300
• Stage 2 (Very Poor): AQI between 301-400
• Stage 3 (Severe): AQI between 401-450
• Stage 4 (Severe Plus): AQI over 450
• Imposition of GRAP-3: The capital's AQI touched 428 on Thursday, falling under the "severe" category, prompting the implementation of GRAP-3 restrictions. This stage involves strict measures aimed at reducing pollution and its impact on public health.
• Health Risks: A "severe" AQI poses significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing respiratory or heart conditions. These restrictions are part of a broader effort to mitigate health issues linked to high pollution levels.

5. Current Pollution Situation

• Delhi has been battling severe pollution levels for several days, with smog blanketing the city and causing low visibility. The AQI crossed 400, marking it as one of the worst pollution episodes of the year.
• The capital, one of the most populous and polluted cities globally, is struggling with persistent smog due to multiple factors, including vehicular emissions, industrial pollutants, and stubble burning in nearby states.

6. Neighboring City Pollution

• Lahore: At the same time, Lahore, Pakistan's second-largest city, is facing the worst pollution levels globally, further underscoring the regional crisis.
• Impact on Daily Life: The air quality in Delhi and surrounding areas continues to degrade, impacting daily life and work. Authorities have urged citizens to limit outdoor activities and take preventive measures such as wearing masks.

7. Looking Ahead

• These restrictions are temporary but critical. The goal is to reduce emissions significantly and improve the air quality within the city. The CAQM will continue to monitor the air quality and adjust the GRAP measures accordingly. If the situation worsens, more stringent actions, such as a ban on private vehicles or the introduction of the Odd-Even scheme, could be considered.

In conclusion, GRAP-3 measures are a necessary but challenging step to tackle Delhi's pollution crisis. While the added metro services and vehicle restrictions are aimed at reducing emissions, the long-term solution lies in improving air quality standards, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and transitioning to more sustainable transport options.