Delhi AQI remains 'very poor' at 365, GRAP stage III restrictions in force

New Delhi: Delhi's air quality remained in the 'very poor' category on Saturday, with the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 365, as pollution levels continued to remain high in the national capital.

The latest reading marked a slight improvement from Friday evening, when the AQI stood at 382, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). However, the overall pollution situation has continued to deteriorate over the past few days.

In response to the worsening conditions, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Friday activated Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR, days ahead of Diwali.

The restrictions include curbs on construction and demolition activities, vehicle movement and industrial operations, along with measures affecting schools and offices. A nine-point action plan has been put in place to limit emissions and prevent further deterioration in air quality.

Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Sirsa appealed to residents to cooperate with the authorities and comply with the restrictions. He cautioned that weather conditions could worsen from Saturday, with wind speeds expected to drop to nearly zero, making it difficult for pollutants to disperse.

Sirsa said collective efforts and public cooperation were essential to improving the city's air quality.

The enforcement of Stage III GRAP measures comes amid growing concerns over pollution ahead of Diwali, with low wind speeds posing an additional challenge to efforts to contain rising pollution levels.

With IANS inputs