Delhis Pollution Crisis: Government Enacts GRAP III & IV Amidst SCs Total Failure Remark

Delhi is facing a severe air pollution crisis, prompting the government to implement stringent emergency measures under GRAP III and IV. Starting immediately, both private and government institutions in Delhi must ensure 50% of their workforce operates from home, with non-compliance facing penalties.

Labour Minister Kapil Mishra announced a ₹10,000 compensation for registered construction workers affected by halted activities, with provisions for fines under the Environment Protection Act for non-compliance with work-from-home directives.

Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa detailed further steps, including denying fuel to vehicles without valid Pollution Under Control certificates and banning badarpur (construction sand) trucks. Only Bharat Stage 6 (BS6) compliant vehicles from outside Delhi are permitted entry during GRAP implementation. T

he Supreme Court has critically assessed the current measures as a "total failure," urging stronger action. The apex court also ordered the suspension of toll collection at Delhi-NCR plazas and allowed action against BS3 and older vehicles, removing their protection. The escalating health concerns and governmental responses are slated for discussion in the Lok Sabha.