Delhi’s air quality has worsened further and JOKE 4 has been put into action. GRAP or Graded Response Action Plan with stage IV restrictions have been ordered to be implemented across Delhi NCR. Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 484, the worst this season, at 8 am, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
What GRAP 4 rules can restrict in Delhi?
With GRAP 4 in place, the following restrictions will be implemented in Delhi NCR:
- No trucks will be allowed into Delhi except for those carrying essential items or using clean fuel (LNG/CNG/BS-VI diesel/electric)
- Non-essential light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi will also be prohibited, except for EVs and CNG and BS-VI diesel ones.
- Delhi-registered BS-IV or older diesel medium and heavy goods vehicles are banned, except for those in essential services.
- All construction activities, including highways, roads, flyovers, power lines, pipelines and other public projects, have been suspended.
- Offices in the National Capital Region (NCR) to work at 50 per cent capacity, with the rest working from home
- All schools to discontinue physical classes for all students, except those in classes 10 and 12
How will AQI 400 and higher affect the health of those living in Delhi?
An Air Quality Index (AQI) of 400 or higher is categorized as “Severe” and poses serious health risks to the entire population. At this level, air is laden with harmful pollutants like particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and ozone. These pollutants penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, leading to acute and chronic health problems.
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Exposure to high levels of air pollution causes eye, nose, and throat irritation, shortness of breath, and cough. Individuals with conditions like asthma, bronchitis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) experience worsening symptoms increasing the need to be hospitalized.
Higher exposure increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes and respiratory infections. It also depresses lung function leading to fatigue and reduces the ability to do minimum physical activity.
Children, the elderly, and pregnant women face heightened risks. Children’s developing lungs may suffer long-term damage, while pregnant women face risks of low birth weight and preterm delivery.
Emerging studies link severe air pollution to anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline.
Limiting outdoor activities and using air purifiers are essential precautions to minimize health impacts at such hazardous AQI levels.
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