Delhi saw a spike in GRAP-4 searches amid rising pollution, but CAQM has clarified that only Stage 3 curbs are in force. Here’s what’s true and what GRAP-4 actually means.
Social media and Google search on Tuesday suddenly saw a spike on searches pertaining to the GRAP status in Delhi. Many claimed that the increasing air pollution in Delhi and the rising air quality index (AQI) had prompted the administration to impose GRAP-4 measures, the highest stage of restrictions pertaining to air pollution. Several news reports also claimed the GRAP 4 was now in place from 8 AM, Tuesday. However, the Commission for Air Quality Monitoring (CAQM) has clarified now that news is false.
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What CAQM said on GRAP-4
“It has come to the notice of the Commission that certain news channels and digital media platforms are circulating misleading information regarding the invocation of Stage-IV of GRAP, which is false, the CAQM said in a circular.
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“At present, Stage-3 of the extant GRAP is in force across the entire NCR. Stakeholders and the public are advised to rely only on Official Updates/ Press Releases issued by the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM),” the CAQM note added.
What happens under GRAP-4?
Under Grap 4, entry of trucks, except those carrying essential goods, into Delhi is banned. Private commercial diesel and petrol vehicles registered outside Delhi are also banned. Construction and demolition activities are also stopped.
If the situation worsens, the governments and administrations of NCR states are empowered to take a call on suspension of physical classes at schools and colleges and implement a 50% attendance at government and private offices. Emergency measures, such as imposing odd-even rule for vehicles and shutting down non-essential commercial premises may also be implemented.
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