North News
New Delhi, November 18
The Supreme Court on Monday signaled its intent to enforce the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) IV in Delhi even if the Air Quality Index (AQI) improves and falls below 300. GRAP IV, typically activated when AQI exceeds 450, includes measures such as a construction ban, school closures, and odd-even vehicle schemes.
“We are making it very clear that you will not go below Stage 4 without our permission, even if AQI goes below 300. That is the order we are proposing,” the Supreme Court said.
The move comes amid concerns over Delhi’s deteriorating air quality and aims to ensure sustained efforts to tackle pollution. The situation deteriorated to the extent that thick smog blanketed the capital on Monday, disrupted train and flight operations as reduced visibility impacted schedules at Indira Gandhi International Airport.
Flight tracking service Flightradar24 data revealed that over 160 flights were delayed until 8:30 a.m., including 118 departures and 43 arrivals. Train schedules were also affected, causing inconvenience for passengers amid worsening air quality.
