The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), a comprehensive set of measures aimed at curbing air pollution in Delhi and its neighboring areas during the winter season, will be activated starting Sunday. These measures were updated by the Commission for Air Quality Management last year and again in July 2021.
The revised GRAP includes stricter restrictions on the operation of old vehicles and a complete ban on the use of coal and firewood in eateries, restaurants, and hotels when the air quality index (AQI) surpasses 200. This is a significant change from the previous threshold of 300 for implementing such a ban. Furthermore, if the AQI exceeds 400, the use of BS III petrol and BS IV diesel four-wheelers will be immediately banned in Delhi and nearby areas.
One of the major changes introduced by the Commission for Air Quality Management is the proactive implementation of anti-air pollution measures based on three-day forecasts. Previously, these measures were only implemented after the pollution level reached a specific threshold. The GRAP is categorized into four stages based on the severity of air pollution: Poor, Very Poor, Severe, and Severe Plus.
Under the revised GRAP, strict enforcement of Supreme Court and National Green Tribunal orders related to older diesel and petrol vehicles is recommended under Stage 1. The use of coal and firewood in eateries, restaurants, and hotels is completely banned when the AQI crosses 200, previously implemented at an AQI above 300. Additional hotspots are also identified for strict measures to curb air pollution under Stage 2.
In Stage 3, states are required to impose strict restrictions on the operation of BS III petrol and BS IV diesel four-wheelers in Delhi and select neighboring areas. In extreme cases where the AQI exceeds 450, four-wheelers registered outside Delhi, excluding electric and BS-VI diesel vehicles, will not be allowed to enter the city, except for essential commodities and services.
These updated measures aim to tackle air pollution more effectively and ensure better air quality in Delhi and its neighboring areas. It is crucial for individuals, businesses, and authorities to adhere to these measures and work together to combat the harmful effects of air pollution for the overall well-being of the region’s residents.
Summery:
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) will be activated in the Delhi-NCR region starting Sunday. The plan includes anti-air pollution measures that have been updated to include stricter restrictions on old vehicles and a complete ban on the use of coal and firewood in eateries, restaurants, and hotels when the air quality index (AQI) exceeds 200. If the AQI exceeds 400, certain petrol and diesel vehicles will be banned in Delhi and nearby areas. The GRAP is categorized into four stages based on the level of air pollution in Delhi, with corresponding measures implemented at each stage. The revised GRAP also includes measures to curb air pollution at identified hotspots and the possibility of discontinuing physical classes in schools under certain conditions. If the AQI exceeds 450, certain vehicles will not be allowed to enter Delhi, except for those transporting essential commodities or providing essential services. All existing measures outlined in the GRAP will continue to be in effect.
Image Credit : TOI
