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Delhi News: As Delhi is recording 'severe' Air Quality Index (AQI) frequently, the Delhi government has decided to implement two key restrictions under
GRAP-4 permanently, according to Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa. He, on Saturday, announced that will now be made permanent to tackle severe air pollution in the national capital. Speaking to the media, Sirsa said the decision aims to prevent Delhi from repeatedly slipping into dangerous pollution levels and to protect public health. GRAP-4 Measures Made Permanent The Delhi government has decided that the following two rules will continue until further orders:
- No PUCC, No Fuel:
- Petrol will not be provided to any vehicle without a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC).
- Fuel stations across Delhi will strictly enforce this rule.
- BS6 Norms Mandatory for Entry:
- Vehicles entering Delhi from outside the city that do not meet Bharat Stage VI (BS6) emission standards will face restrictions.
- Older, more polluting vehicles will not be allowed to enter the capital.
Also Read: Delhi AQI in Severe Category, Dense Fog at 7.8°C; Check Area-Wise AQI, Flight Advisories
Weather and Pollution Monitoring
The minister said authorities are closely watching weather conditions, as a Western Disturbance may worsen pollution levels. Cold weather, fog, and smog are trapping pollutants, reducing visibility and affecting daily life. “Our effort is that people of Delhi do not have to face these pollution-related hardships again,” Sirsa said.
Current Air Quality Situation
- Delhi’s AQI stood at 390 at 6 pm, placing it in the ‘Very Poor’ category, according to CPCB data.
- People, especially children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues, are advised to limit outdoor exposure and wear masks.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has also invoked Stage III of GRAP, which includes:
- Restrictions on construction activities
- Controls on certain industrial operations
Other Major Anti-Pollution Decisions
Earlier, the Delhi Cabinet under Chief Minister Rekha Gupta approved several long-term measures:
- Rs 100 crore allocation to rejuvenate Delhi’s water bodies
- Around 1,000 water bodies exist in Delhi, with 160 under the Delhi government’s control
- The project is expected to help improve the city’s environment and reduce pollution
- Delhi’s first E-Waste Park at Holambi Kalan
- Spread over 11.5 acres
- Designed as a zero-waste, zero-pollution facility
- Will recycle e-waste using a 100% circular model with complete water reuse
Sirsa said the government has been directed to provide full financial support to complete these projects within a year.
(With Inputs from
