Over 100 flights have been delayed at the Delhi airport due to bad weather conditions but there are no diversions so far. (Express)

Delhi Air Quality Crisis Triggers Stage III GRAP

The Centre’s Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the Delhi-NCR region. This move comes after Delhi recorded its fourth consecutive day in the ‘very poor’ category on the air quality index. The thick smog and dense fog have had a significant impact, not only affecting visibility on major traffic routes but also affecting air travel. Over 100 flights have been delayed at the Delhi airport, though there have been no diversions to date.

Stage III of GRAP: What It Means for Residents

Under Stage III of the GRAP, several stringent measures are being implemented:

• Hybrid Mode for Classes Up to V: Students from classes 1 to 5 will attend school on alternate days.
• Vehicle Restrictions: Cars with BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel engines are banned from Delhi.
• Staggered Office Timings: Public offices and municipal bodies, including some in NCR districts, are operating on staggered timings to reduce morning rush.
• Ban on Demolition and Construction: All demolition work and construction activities are halted.

Political Clashes Erupt Over Law and Order

In a heated exchange, AAP Chief Arvind Kejriwal criticized the BJP-led government over the deteriorating law and order situation in Delhi. He expressed his frustration, stating, “There is an aapda in Delhi — that of law and order. Gangsters are shooting in the open. Women are crying and screaming, but their cries are not reaching Modi and Shah’s ears.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a sharp rebuttal, accused Kejriwal of corruption and opportunism. He reminded him of his commitment to provide homes for all, saying, “These people commit corruption and then glorify it.” Kejriwal was quick to respond, calling the BJP’s claims “shameless” and “making false promises.”

Clashes Over the Electoral Roll Heats Up

The BJP has accused the AAP of irregularities in the voter registration details of some party leaders and their family members. Seeking accountability, they demand that the Election Commission of India (ECI) take action against these alleged irregularities. BJP contends that these discrepancies aim to skew electoral results in favor of the AAP.

AAP promptly dismissed the BJP’s allegations. They claim that the opposition party’s real agenda is to eliminate the names of Purvanchalis from Delhi’s electoral roll, thereby altering the electoral landscape to benefit BJP candidates.

The Urgency of Air Quality Improvements

The persistent poor air quality in Delhi is a pressing issue that affects the health and well-being of its residents. With the invocation of Stage III GRAP, the government is taking decisive steps to mitigate these adverse impacts. However, the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen.

The political fallout from the air quality crisis and related skirmishes continues to escalate. As more residents demand immediate action and better living conditions, both parties must address these issues with urgency and cooperation.

The Role of Citizens

It is not just the responsibility of the government to tackle these crises. Citizens can play an active role by adhering to the rules set by the GRAP, supporting measures to improve air quality, and advocating for stricter accountability from political leaders.

By coming together and pushing for comprehensive solutions, Delhi can work towards a healthier, more livable environment.

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