Delhi is facing a serious air pollution problem. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has decided to bring back strict rules, called Stage-IV measures, because the city’s air quality has dropped to a dangerous level.
On Monday night, the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached over 400, which means the air is very unhealthy. The CAQM quickly held an emergency meeting to discuss this issue. They announced that the new rules will start right away.
To protect students, the Delhi Directorate of Education (DoE) has told all schools to switch to a hybrid learning model, which means students up to Class V will learn partly online and partly in school. This rule applies to all government and private schools.
What does Stage-IV mean for Delhi?
Stage-IV is the highest alert level for air quality. Here’s what it means:
1. Vehicle Rules: Non-essential trucks can’t enter Delhi unless they are carrying important goods. Trucks that run on cleaner fuels, like LNG, CNG, or are electric, are allowed.
2. School Changes: Most schools will have online classes except for students in Classes 10 and 12. The Chief Minister confirmed that this will last for as long as needed.
3. Work-from-Home: Government and private offices may allow employees to work from home to limit their exposure to bad air.
4. Construction Ban: No construction work is allowed, even on roads and power projects, to prevent adding more dust into the air.
5. Health Warnings: People, especially kids and seniors, should stay inside and avoid going out if possible. The CAQM is asking everyone to help reduce pollution.
Wider Impact on the NCR Region
These measures are also being applied in nearby areas including parts of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. The air quality in these regions has also been very poor, especially in winter when there’s little wind.
Medical experts warn that bad air can lead to health problems like breathing issues and heart disease. So, the government is asking everyone to be careful and stay indoors when possible.
What’s Next?
The goal of these Stage-IV measures is to quickly lower pollution levels and improve air quality. However, weather conditions may not improve soon, possibly lengthening the pollution problem.
The CAQM is trying to manage the air quality as best as they can, but they admit that growing vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, and burning crops in nearby states make it hard.
As the pollution crisis unfolds, the government is ready to take more actions if needed, like more limits on businesses or vehicle restrictions. Delhi residents should keep an eye on any new rules and follow health advice during this urgent time.
