Delhi has officially entered survival mode. And then the city implemented GRAP IV (Graded Response Action Plan) measures on Wednesday as toxic smog pushed the Air Quality Index (AQI) into the “Severe Plus” category.
The thing is, this isn’t just about wearing masks anymore. The government is shutting down entire sectors to stop the city from choking.
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The “Closed” List: What’s Off-Limits
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Schools (Nursery to Class 5): Physical classes are completely discontinued. Earlier, parents had a choice, but now it’s 100% online. For classes 6 to 9 and 11, it’s “hybrid,” meaning you can choose to stay home.
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Non-BS6 Vehicles: Here’s the kicker: starting tomorrow (December 18), only Bharat Stage-VI (BS6) compliant vehicles can enter Delhi. If you’re driving an older car from outside, you’re effectively banned.
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Fuel Access: No PUC, no petrol. Cameras at fuel stations will automatically flag your plate. If your Pollution Under Control certificate isn’t valid, pumps will deny you fuel starting Thursday.
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Construction: It’s a total freeze. Even the big public projects like flyovers and highways—which usually get a pass—are halted under Stage IV.
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The Tandoor Ban: Say goodbye to coal-fired kebabs for now. The DPCC has banned coal and firewood tandoors in all eateries. Only electric or gas-run ones are allowed.
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The “Open” List: What’s Still Running
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Public Transport: The Metro and DTC buses are running full tilt. In fact, everyone is being urged to ditch their cars and use them.
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Essential Services: Hospitals, fire services, water, and electricity are fully functional.
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Clean Trucks: Trucks carrying essential goods or running on LNG, CNG, or Electricity are still allowed to enter.
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Airports and Trains: Barring a total “white-out” from fog, airports and railway stations remain open.
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Offices (at 50%): Government and private offices are still open, but only with half the staff. The rest have to work from home.
Let’s be real, the AQI hitting 600+ in spots like Anand Vihar and Wazirpur means we’re living through a health emergency. The government is even providing electric heaters to security guards so they don’t burn wood to stay warm. It’s an ongoing crisis, and the rules are getting stricter by the day.
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