With winter looming on the horizon, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has taken proactive steps to combat the perennial issue of air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR) and surrounding areas. The CAQM has issued revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) guidelines, designed to address the deteriorating air quality that typically plagues the region during the winter months. These new guidelines, implemented under Section 12 of the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021, emphasize stricter and more predictive measures to tackle the problem.
The revised GRAP guidelines, based on daily Air Quality Index (AQI) forecasts for Delhi and NCR, will be implemented as needed. One of the key changes is the introduction of increased parking fees, aimed at reducing vehicular pollution by minimizing road congestion and emissions during the winter months.
The original GRAP, first notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change in January 2017, was based on recommendations from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Since its inception, the GRAP has been a crucial tool in managing air pollution in Delhi-NCR and has undergone several revisions over the years to adapt to evolving environmental challenges and incorporate insights gleaned from its implementation.
The CAQM enforced the new GRAP measures in an order dated September 17th. Under Stage III of the GRAP, which is triggered when the AQI breaches 400, the following measures will be enforced:
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Transport Restrictions:
All inter-state buses from NCR states, except electric vehicles, CNG vehicles, and BS-VI diesel buses, will be prohibited from entering Delhi.*
Construction and Demolition Ban:
Stringent restrictions will be placed on construction and demolition activities across the NCR.*
Mining Activities Suspension:
Mining-related activities will be suspended.*
Online Classes for Students:
Consideration will be given to shifting to online classes for students up to Class V.*
Road Sprinkling:
Daily water sprinkling will be conducted on major roads.These comprehensive measures aim to mitigate the impact of winter smog and ensure a cleaner and healthier environment for the residents of Delhi-NCR.
