Graded Response Action Plan Phase II Activated in Delhi-NCR Amid Deteriorating Air Quality

New Delhi, November 4 (Daily Kiran) : The air quality index (AQI) in various areas of Delhi-NCR has reached alarming levels, prompting the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Phase II to be enforced as of November 2. On Wednesday, Noida recorded an AQI exceeding 600, categorizing it in the most severe range. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has urged residents to adhere to the guidelines outlined in both Phase I and Phase II of the GRAP citizen charter.

GRAP, which stands for Graded Response Action Plan, is an emergency measure designed to tackle air pollution in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). In simple terms, it consists of a set of stringent regulations that activate based on pollution levels. The worse the air quality, the stricter the restrictions become. Initially notified in 2017 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the responsibility for implementing GRAP now lies with the CAQM.

The CAQM continuously monitors air quality data and weather forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). When the AQI surpasses a certain threshold or forecasts predict worsening air quality, the CAQM directs the implementation of the relevant GRAP phase.

Phase I is triggered when air quality is categorized as “poor,” with an AQI ranging from 201 to 300. This phase enforces strict dust control measures at construction sites, bans open burning of waste, initiates water spraying on roads, and increases scrutiny on vehicles older than 10-15 years. The government encourages the public to use public transport.

Phase II, designated for “very poor” air quality, applies when the AQI is between 301 and 400. Under this phase, the use of diesel generators is banned, except for essential services. To discourage private vehicle use, parking fees are increased, while the frequency of CNG and electric buses, as well as metro services, is enhanced. Additionally, restaurants using tandoors and coal are prohibited from operating.

Phase III, known for “severe” air quality, is activated when the AQI reaches between 401 and 450. In this scenario, all construction activities are halted, except for national security and essential projects. The use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles is banned, and primary schools may be closed.

Phase IV, or “emergency” status, occurs when the AQI exceeds 450. This is the most critical phase, where entry for all trucks, except those carrying essential goods, is prohibited. Schools and colleges may close, shifting to online classes, and up to 50% of employees in government and private offices may be required to work from home. The government may also implement odd-even vehicle schemes.

Delhi Traffic Police have called for compliance with vehicle restrictions under GRAP Phase II, detailing which vehicles are allowed on the roads. Only petrol and diesel cars registered in Delhi that meet BS-IV standards and possess valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates may operate. Electric and CNG vehicles are also permitted, along with specific intra-state and inter-city buses.

Conversely, vehicles that do not meet these standards, including older petrol and diesel cars and buses, are prohibited. Heavy trucks not destined for Delhi are diverted to the peripheral expressway. Vehicles without valid PUC certificates are also barred.

Authorities advise residents to maintain their vehicles properly, keep valid PUC certificates, avoid unnecessary idling, and limit excessive vehicle use. They encourage the use of public transport or carpooling whenever possible.

Before setting out, travelers are urged to check the traffic advisory from the Delhi Traffic Police for updates on diversions and traffic conditions.