New Delhi. The air quality in Delhi has once again deteriorated. Even before the onset of winter, air pollution has started increasing. In view of this, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has decided to implement the restrictions of GRAP-1 with immediate effect. In the last 24 hours, Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) has increased from 179 to 244. According to the forecast of the Meteorological Department, Delhi's air quality may deteriorate further in the coming days. In view of this, the Commission has directed all the concerned agencies of Delhi-NCR to take concrete steps to control pollution, and to follow and monitor the rules.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), an AQI between 0 to 50 is considered 'good' while an AQI of 51 to 100 is considered 'satisfactory'. Whereas 101 to 200 AQI has been kept in 'moderate', 201 to 300 as 'bad', 301 to 400 as 'very poor' and AQI between 401 to 500 has been kept in 'severe' category. Generally, when AQI levels are between 201 and 300, i.e. in the 'poor' category, GRAP-1 restrictions are implemented.

Restrictions of GRAP-1-

– Prohibition on demolition and construction works that generate dust, and prohibition on keeping sand, ballast, cement etc. in the open.

– Ban on use of diesel generators. It can be operated only in necessary or emergency situations.

– Regular checking of PUCC to prevent pollution from vehicles

– Complete ban on open burning of garbage

Let us tell you that just a few days ago, many decisions were taken in the meeting of Central and Delhi Government for the prevention of pollution. The Delhi government had directed to change the timings in all government offices from November 1 and implement the order of 'work from home' for 50 percent of the employees in government and private offices.