Delhi Chokes Under Thick Smog as GRAP-2 Enforced Amid Rising Pollution Levels

This morning in Delhi, the city remained shrouded in a thick layer of smog, similar to the past few days. The white haze blanketed the skyline, making visibility poor across various areas. Iconic spots like India Gate, which usually see morning walkers and cyclists, appeared almost deserted as pollution levels continued to rise. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in several parts of the city has crossed the 300 mark, categorizing the air quality as "very poor." This escalating pollution has prompted authorities to enforce the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-2) across Delhi. GRAP is a set of emergency measures implemented in phases to combat severe air pollution and reduce the harmful effects on public health. Under GRAP-2, several restrictions and actions are taken, such as banning the use of diesel generators, increasing surveillance on industrial emissions, and halting construction activities that generate dust. The plan also encourages greater use of public transportation to reduce vehicular emissions. Authorities have issued advisories urging residents to limit outdoor activities, especially during the early morning and evening hours when pollution levels are particularly high. The smoggy conditions are a stark reminder of the growing environmental challenges Delhi faces, with worsening pollution levels becoming an annual concern during this season.