New Delhi: Under Stage 2, the entry of inter-state buses from NCR states is now prohibited, with exceptions for electric vehicles and those powered by CNG or BS-VI diesel. This update comes as the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in Delhi-NCR revised its guidelines under the Graded Response Action Plan (Grap) following a recent Supreme Court ruling that highlighted deficiencies in the existing measures.Stricter Measures to Combat Air PollutionThe CAQM, which serves as the central pollution watchdog for the National Capital Region (NCR), has mandated states to implement stricter regulations to improve air quality during peak pollution seasons. These measures include introducing hybrid classes in schools and adjusting parking fees to discourage the use of private vehicles.As winter approaches, Delhi and its surrounding areas face an annual crisis of air pollution, exacerbated by smoke from paddy fields in Punjab and Haryana, combined with local emissions and lower temperatures. The Grap is designed to escalate restrictions in response to rising pollution levels, with four distinct stages that become progressively more stringent.Compliance with Supreme Court Orders“The revised schedule is in compliance with the Supreme Court orders,” stated a CAQM official. “The court had asked the Commission to incorporate additional measures in stage two, which were previously in the third stage.” This revision reflects a proactive approach to air quality management, aiming to mitigate health risks associated with poor air quality.Under the new guidelines, Stage 2 now prohibits inter-state buses from entering NCR states unless they are electric or run on CNG or BS-VI diesel. Previously, such restrictions were only applicable during Stage 3 of the Grap. Additionally, residents welfare associations (RWAs) are now required to supply electric heaters to security, sanitation, and horticulture staff within their communities to prevent open burning of biomass during winter months.Enhanced Restrictions on Diesel VehiclesStage 3 introduces a ban on diesel-run medium goods vehicles (MGVs) that do not meet BS-IV standards unless they are transporting essential goods. Non-essential light commercial vehicles (LCVs) registered outside Delhi that also fail to meet these standards will be barred from entering the capital. This marks a significant tightening of restrictions compared to previous regulations.Furthermore, both Delhi and NCR governments will stagger public office hours as part of Stage 3 measures. The CAQM has made hybrid teaching mandatory for students up to Class V during this stage, while other NCR cities will have options for online education when available.In Stage 4, schools in Delhi-NCR districts will transition to a hybrid model for classes VI to IX and XI.The CAQM confirmed that “Grap Stage 2 has been invoked since December 5, and the revised schedule will take immediate effect.” Following last weeks Supreme Court recommendations, the CAQM is expected to maintain these heightened restrictions until air quality improves significantly across Delhi-NCR.
