Delhi Takes Proactive Measures to Combat Winter Pollution: Implementation of GRAP Begins

Delhi Takes Proactive Measures to Combat Winter Pollution: Implementation of GRAP Begins

VoM News Desk | October 1, 2023 | 03:18 PM IST | Climate & Environment, Delhi | Follow on Google News

Delhi Takes Proactive Measures to Combat Winter Pollution: Implementation of GRAP Begins

As winter approaches, Delhi gears up to combat the looming threat of rising pollution levels. The city has initiated the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) from today, marking a proactive step to tackle deteriorating air quality. This article delves into the details of the plan, its significance, and the measures being taken to mitigate air pollution in the national capital.

Understanding GRAP: A Multi-Stage Approach

GRAP operates in four distinct stages, each corresponding to different levels of air quality index (AQI). These stages are as follows:

• Stage 1 – ‘Poor’ (AQI 201-300): This stage signifies a noticeable deterioration in air quality.
• Stage 2 – ‘Very Poor’ (AQI 301-400): At this stage, air quality worsens significantly, demanding immediate attention.
• Stage 3 – ‘Severe’ (AQI 401-450): The severity of air pollution escalates, posing serious health risks.
• Stage 4 – ‘Severe Plus’ (AQI >450): The highest stage reflects a critical situation where urgent measures are imperative.

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Early Implementation as a Preemptive Measure

Traditionally, GRAP was enforced as an emergency response mechanism when air quality reached hazardous levels. However, this year, the Delhi government took a proactive approach by implementing GRAP even before air quality began to deteriorate. As of now, the AQI in Delhi stands below 200.

Temporary Reprieve for Diesel Generators

In a one-time exception, the Environment Ministry has allowed diesel generator sets of all capacities to operate in Delhi-NCR from October 1 to December 31. This decision, made by the Commission for Air Quality Management, comes ahead of the GRAP implementation and aims to address power needs while considering pollution concerns. Previously, there was resistance from resident welfare associations against the complete ban on diesel gensets during GRAP.

GRAP: A Collaborative Effort

GRAP is not a solitary effort but rather a collaborative emergency response mechanism that involves multiple stakeholders, implementing agencies, and authorities. It brings together the collective force needed to respond effectively to deteriorating air quality situations in Delhi-NCR. The full implementation of GRAP is set to commence on October 1 across the entire NCR region.

Stringent Regulations for Diesel Generators

The Commission for Air Quality Management has taken measures to regulate diesel generator sets in NCR. It banned their use in the industrial and commercial sectors from May 15, with a deadline for those fitted with Retrofit Emission Control Devices (RECD) set for September 30. The commission also emphasized the need for DG sets to shift to dual-mode operation (gas and diesel) and install emission-regulating devices.

Delhi’s Winter Pollution Combat Plan

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal outlined a comprehensive plan to address winter pollution in the city. The plan includes actions such as identifying pollution hotspots, monitoring construction sites, controlling vehicle emissions, curbing garbage burning, banning firecrackers, establishing an E-waste park, and enforcing GRAP rigorously.

VoM News Desk

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