Pollution restrictions under stage 2 of GRAP...
As Delhi gets respite from toxic air with improved air quality due to continuous rains, the Centre's panel on Delhi-NCR's air quality on Friday lifted stringent pollution curbs under stage 3 of GRAP in the national capital and surrounding areas with immediate effect. However, pollution restrictions under stage 2 of GRAP are in place in the national capital region.
Delhi's air pollution levels showed a declining trend and the 24-hour average air quality index (AQI) stood at 324 at 7 pm on Friday.
According to forecasts from the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, the air quality situation is predicted to improve further owing to favourable meteorological conditions.
The Commission for Air Quality Management, responsible for planning strategies to combat air pollution in Delhi-NCR, announced that restrictions under stages 1 and 2 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) will continue to be enforced in the region.
As part of stage 2 measures, activities such as mechanized road sweeping, daily water sprinkling, and the use of anti-smog guns will be carried out to control dust, with special focus on areas identified as pollution hotspots.
Power providers have been instructed to ensure an uninterrupted electricity supply to reduce reliance on diesel generator sets.
Public alerts about air pollution levels will be disseminated via newspapers, TV, and radio to keep residents informed.
To prevent air quality in Delhi-NCR from falling back into the 'very poor' or 'severe' category, people are urged to opt for public transport instead of personal vehicles whenever possible.
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