Delhi Air Quality Measures Implemented

Summary of Air Quality Measures in Delhi

1. Current Air Quality Situation:

   • Delhi's air quality categorized as 'very poor'.
   • Central Pollution Control Board forecasts continued poor air quality from Tuesday to Thursday.

2. Government Directives:

   • Delhi government mandated a work-from-home policy for 50% of employees in both government and private offices.
   • The order is effective immediately and will remain in force as long as Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is in effect.
   • Certain essential services, such as hospitals, fire services, sanitation, and disaster management, are exempt from the directive.

3. Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP):

   • The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) revised GRAP, moving measures previously under Stage IV (AQI 451-500) to Stage III (AQI 401-450).
   • Previously advised State governments to decide on the operation of public and private offices under reduced staff.

4. Legal Framework:

   • Orders issued under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986:
     • Violation of directives actionable under Section 5, punishable under Sections 15 and 16 of the same Act.

5. Administrative Compliance:

   • Administrative Secretaries and Heads of Departments required to maintain regular office attendance.
   • Nonetheless, Secretaries can summon officials as needed to ensure the continuity of essential services.

6. Scientific Consideration:

   • The air quality forecast does not account for potential impacts from ash caused by the eruption of Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano.

This summary highlights the urgent measures taken by the Delhi government in response to deteriorating air quality, addressing both health and administrative facets under the appropriate legal and constitutional framework.