Construction Resumes and BS III/IV Vehicles Back on the Roads as Delhi-NCR Air Quality Improves1
Construction and Vehicle Movement as Delhi-NCR Air Quality Improves
Restrictions on construction activities and the operation of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel cars have been lifted in Delhi-NCR, following a modest improvement in air quality. The Commission for Air Quality Management announced on Monday that the measures, implemented on December 22 under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), will be rescinded after a thorough evaluation of weather and pollution forecasts for the city.
“The Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi has shown progressive improvement, recording a reading of 346 at 4 pm. This is approximately 55 AQI points below the threshold for invoking GRAP Stage-III actions (Delhi AQI 401-450). There is a likelihood of sustaining the improvement in AQI, as per the forecasts by IMD/IITM, which do not indicate any further deterioration. There is also a likelihood of the AQI improving while remaining in the Very Poor/Poor category in the next few days,” stated the commission’s order.
The directive further specified that construction and demolition project sites along with industrial units, which had been issued closure orders due to violations or non-compliance with directives or regulations, will not be permitted to recommence operations without explicit orders.
Additionally, the order emphasized that stringent measures would be enforced for construction and industrial sites that had previously faced closure due to violations. Any resumption of operations would be contingent upon specific orders, ensuring strict adherence to environmental guidelines and regulations.
The Commission for Air Quality Management underscored the need for continued vigilance to maintain the positive trajectory in air quality. While lifting certain restrictions, the commission remained committed to closely monitoring the situation, ready to take necessary actions to safeguard the region’s air quality.
As Delhi-NCR strives for cleaner and healthier air, the balance between economic activities and environmental responsibility remains a focal point. The dynamic situation requires ongoing collaboration between authorities, industries, and the public to ensure sustainable practices and a long-term improvement in air quality.
The prohibition on construction activities and the operation of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel cars has been lifted in Delhi-NCR, driven by a modest improvement in air quality. The Commission for Air Quality Management announced on Monday that the measures, activated on December 22 under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), will be rescinded following a thorough review of weather and pollution forecasts for the city.
This decision comes as a relief for various sectors that were affected by the temporary ban, providing them with the opportunity to resume operations. Construction projects, which had come to a halt, can now proceed, contributing to the economic activities in the region. Additionally, owners of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles can now drive without restrictions, easing the mobility of the public.
The Commission for Air Quality Management’s move reflects a responsive and dynamic approach, considering both environmental concerns and the practical needs of the community. The decision to lift the ban is based on the observed improvement in the Air Quality Index (AQI), which has fallen to a level deemed acceptable according to the Graded Response Action Plan.
However, the commission’s commitment to monitoring weather patterns and pollution forecasts suggests a cautious and proactive stance. The welfare of the residents and the quality of the air in Delhi-NCR remain paramount, and any future actions will be guided by a comprehensive assessment of the prevailing conditions.
As the city moves forward, striking a balance between developmental activities and environmental sustainability remains crucial in construction . The commission’s decision serves as a testament to the ongoing efforts to navigate these complex challenges and create a harmonious coexistence between progress and environmental responsibility in the region.
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