Understanding the Graded Response Action Plan Amid Rising Pollution Levels in Delhi-NCR

New Delhi, October 24 (Daily Kiran) : Air quality in various parts of Delhi-NCR has reached alarming levels, with Noida recording a live Air Quality Index (AQI) of 303 on Saturday, categorizing it as ‘very poor.’ The concentration of PM 2.5 particles has surged to 222 micrograms per cubic meter, while PM 10 levels hit 269 micrograms per cubic meter.

In light of these deteriorating conditions, authorities are urging residents to refrain from using polluting vehicles while the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-1) is in effect. This plan, which often comes to the forefront during winter months, raises questions about its purpose, implementation, and the restrictions it entails.

The Graded Response Action Plan is an emergency strategy designed to address air pollution in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). Simply put, it consists of a set of stringent regulations that are enforced based on pollution levels. The worse the air quality, the stricter the restrictions become. First introduced in 2017 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, GRAP has become a crucial tool in managing air quality.

The responsibility for implementing GRAP currently falls to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). This body continuously monitors air quality data and forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). When AQI exceeds certain thresholds or forecasts indicate a significant deterioration in air quality, CAQM activates the relevant stage of GRAP.

GRAP is divided into four stages based on the severity of pollution. The first stage, known as ‘poor,’ applies when AQI levels range from 201 to 300. During this phase, strict dust control measures are enforced at construction sites, open burning of waste is prohibited, and water sprinkling on roads is initiated. The government encourages the use of public transport.

The second stage, referred to as ‘very poor,’ is enacted when AQI levels rise to between 301 and 400. In this phase, the use of diesel generators is banned, although essential services are exempt. To discourage the use of private vehicles, parking fees are increased, and the frequency of CNG and electric buses, as well as metro services, is enhanced. Additionally, the use of tandoors and coal at restaurants is restricted.

The third stage, classified as ‘severe,’ occurs when AQI levels hit between 401 and 450. This situation is extremely hazardous. All construction activities, except for national security and essential projects, are halted. The use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles is prohibited, and primary schools may be closed.

The fourth stage, termed ’emergency’ or ‘very severe,’ is triggered when AQI exceeds 450. In this critical state, the entry of all trucks, except those carrying essential goods, is banned. Schools and colleges may close, shifting to online classes, and up to 50% of employees in both government and private sectors may be instructed to work from home. The government might also implement odd-even schemes during this stage.

On Friday, Delhi’s Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa appealed to the public to avoid using polluting vehicles while GRAP-1 is in effect, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.

In areas like Delhi-NCR, an AQI nearing 201 signals a significant deterioration in air quality. An AQI of 201-300 (poor) serves as a warning level, potentially affecting even healthy individuals. For those with heart and lung conditions, this level is particularly concerning. When AQI surpasses 301 (hazardous), it creates a health emergency, with PM 2.5 particles posing the greatest risk as they can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream.