Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Implemented to Tackle Air Pollution in Delhi-NCR

Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Implemented to Tackle Air Pollution in Delhi-NCR Image/NDTV

VoM News Desk | October 1, 2023 | 12:32 PM IST | Breaking News, Climate & Environment | Follow on Google News

Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Implemented to Tackle Air Pollution in Delhi-NCR

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) was implemented on Sunday in Delhi-NCR to combat air pollution during the winter season. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) made significant changes to GRAP last year and again in July to proactively address air pollution based on forecasts up to three days in advance.

Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Implemented to Tackle Air Pollution in Delhi-NCR: Key measures and changes include:

1. Strict restrictions on the use of overage vehicles.
2. A complete ban on the use of coal and firewood in eateries, restaurants, and hotels when the Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeds 200.
3. Immediate ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers in Delhi and nearby areas if the AQI crosses 400.

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The revised GRAP categorizes air quality in four stages: poor (AQI 201-300), very poor (AQI 301-400), severe (AQI 401-450), and severe plus (AQI >450). The CAQM recommends strict enforcement of the orders of the Supreme Court and the National Green Tribunal regarding overage diesel and petrol vehicles under Stage 1.

Under Stage 3, there will be strict restrictions on the use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers in specific areas, and physical classes in schools for children up to Class 5 may be discontinued. Four-wheelers registered outside Delhi, except for essential services, will not be allowed to enter Delhi if the AQI exceeds 450.

The CAQM noted that Delhi-NCR recorded an average AQI of 167 from January 1 to September 30, the second-best in six years. Diesel generator sets in nine critical categories of emergency services have been granted a three-month reprieve from the ban.

The GRAP aims to improve air quality in Delhi and its surrounding areas by implementing measures to reduce pollution levels during the winter months.

VoM News Desk

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