Delhi's air pollution reached alarming levels on Monday, recording the season’s highest average 24-hour Air Quality Index (AQI) at 493, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Out of 36 monitoring stations in the capital, 13 reported AQI readings at 499 or 500, signaling hazardous conditions. Notable locations with extreme readings included India Gate, Mundka, Najafgarh, Dwarka, Siri Fort, Punjabi Bagh, North Campus, and Rohini.

Strict GRAP Stage 4 Measures in Effect

The severe pollution levels have triggered the strictest Stage 4 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Measures include a ban on truck entry into Delhi, except those transporting essential goods or running on clean fuels like LNG, CNG, or BS-VI diesel. Non-essential light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi are also prohibited unless they are electric, CNG, or BS-VI compliant. Construction activities at public project sites have been completely halted.

Supreme Court Intervenes

The Supreme Court has taken a strong stance on the pollution crisis, instructing states in Delhi-NCR to consider immediate closure of schools and shift classes online. The court emphasized that anti-pollution measures must continue even if the AQI drops below 450. During a hearing, the court criticized the Delhi government for delays in implementing stricter controls, warning that any scaling down of measures would require prior approval.

Travel Disruptions Due to Dense Fog

The pollution crisis has been compounded by dense fog, disrupting operations at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. Over 80 flights were delayed by 30 minutes to an hour. Rail services were also impacted, with delays of three to four hours affecting around 30 trains, including prominent services like the New Delhi-Kochuveli Express, Jammu Sampark Kranti, and Goa Sampark Kranti. Authorities have advised travelers to confirm schedules with airlines and railways before starting their journey.

This critical situation underscores the urgency of implementing effective pollution control measures to address Delhi’s worsening air quality.