Severe air quality triggers construction ban in Delhi-NCR

As air quality in the national capital region worsens to 'severe' levels, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This measure entails a suspension of all non-essential construction and demolition activities in Delhi-NCR.

Real estate developers have expressed concerns over this decision, citing potential delays in project deliveries. On average, a one-month construction ban can set back a project by at least two to three months, affecting both builders and homebuyers. 

They urged authorities to adopt a more nuanced, case-by-case approach when implementing air pollution regulations. Developers emphasise the need to address the primary sources of pollution, such as vehicular emissions and roadside dust, which are major contributors to the problem.

As of 2nd November 2023, Delhi's air quality index (AQI) registered at 402. In addition to the construction ban, GRAP-III also includes restrictions on the entry of diesel light commercial vehicles (LCVs), trucks, and medium and heavy goods vehicles registered outside Delhi, except those engaged in essential services.