Vehicle Restrictions, Expanded Remote Work
Emergency Measures Include Suspension of In-Person Classes
New Delhi, the capital of India, has come to a virtual standstill due to severe air pollution. As the air quality index (AQI) soared to the 'hazardous' level, the highest level of emergency measures was implemented, including restrictions on vehicle operation, expanded remote work, and suspension of in-person classes.
According to the Times of India (TOI) and other sources on December 18, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in India simultaneously activated both Stage 3 and Stage 4 air pollution responses on December 16, after the AQI in the New Delhi area reached the 'severe' level.
On the morning of the activation, at 10 a.m., New Delhi's AQI reached 401, triggering Stage 3 measures. By 8 p.m. the same day, the index had exceeded 450, prompting the implementation of Stage 4 measures.
The Commission for Air Quality Management explained, "The air quality index continued to rise because wind speeds were low, the atmosphere was stagnant, and weather conditions deteriorated, preventing the dispersion of pollutants," adding, "We implemented Stage 4 measures to prevent further worsening."
As a result, in New Delhi and surrounding areas-including Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddh Nagar-operation of BS Stage 3 gasoline vehicles and BS Stage 4 diesel four-wheelers has been restricted. Non-essential freight trucks using non-clean fuels are also banned from entering New Delhi.
The New Delhi government, based on the Environmental Protection Act, instructed that 50% of all personnel in both private and government institutions work from home, with some exceptions. For schools, classes for 9th and 11th grades and below have switched to a hybrid model combining remote and in-person instruction.
All construction and demolition work has also been completely halted. Previously exempted linear public works such as roads, bridges, power, and telecommunications infrastructure have also been suspended with the activation of Stage 4 measures. Registered construction workers whose livelihoods have been affected by the work stoppage will receive compensation of 10,000 rupees (approximately 164,000 won).
The Commission for Air Quality Management has advised children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses to refrain from outdoor activities as much as possible. Authorities plan to monitor future weather conditions and changes in air quality before deciding whether to extend these measures.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
