Amid rising air pollution that is choking the residents in the national capital and its adjoining areas, including Gurugram, Ghaziabad and Faridabad, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai on Friday said an additional 106 cluster buses will be employed in the heart of India- Delhi. Additionally, metro trains would make 60 extra trips in view of GRAP-3. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has imposed GRAP 3 measures as the national capital grapples with thick smog and recorded the worst pollution levels in the country. The air quality remains in the “severe” category for two consecutive days.
In a press briefing, the Delhi Environment Minister said that interstate buses except for e-buses and CNG vehicles have been banned. BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers have been prohibited, he added.
Boosting Public Transport, Reducing Private Vehicles
In an attempt to boost public transport and reduce the use of private vehicles, Gopal Rai announced the deployment of an additional 106 cluster bus services by the Delhi Transport Corporation and 60 additional trips by metro trains.
Artificial Rains will be Poured
The minister further said that if the air quality further deteriorates, emergency measures, such as artificial rain, will be incorporated.
GRAP-III Curbs Imposed
The rising air pollution level compelled the implementation of the third stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The measure is introduced by the commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) when the Air Quality Index (AQI) crosses a certain range, triggering a health emergency.
The Restriction Under GRAP 3
- Construction and demolition activities will be halted
- Non-essential mining activities to be suspended
- Non-electric, non-CNG, and non-BS-VI diesel interstate buses will face restrictions
