Delhi-NCR Implements Stage-I Measures as Air Quality Declines Post-Dussehra

 Air Quality Deteriorates

As air quality in Delhi-NCR deteriorated following the Dussehra festivities, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has implemented Stage-I of the Graded Response Action Plan (Grap). This decision was made on October 14, after the capital’s air quality was classified as ‘poor’ for two consecutive days. The measures aim to curb pollution and prevent further degradation of air quality.

Delhi’s Deteriorating Air Quality

On October 15, the CPCB reported that Delhi’s 24-hour average air quality index (AQI) stood at 234, placing it firmly within the ‘poor’ category. In response, a 27-point Stage-I action plan came into effect across the National Capital Region (NCR) starting at 8 am that day.

What is the Graded Response Action Plan?

The Graded Response Action Plan is a systematic framework designed to address the alarming levels of air pollution in Delhi and its surrounding areas. Established as an emergency response, Grap is particularly critical during winter months when air quality often plummets. The plan is divided into four stages, each activated by specific pollution levels:

• Stage I (AQI 201-300): Poor

• Stage II (AQI 301-400): Very Poor

• Stage III (AQI 401-450): Severe

Measures Under Grap Stage-I

Stage-I introduces various measures to mitigate pollution before it escalates. The following activities are banned or heavily restricted under this phase:

• Restrictions on Vehicles: Strict monitoring of polluting vehicles and improved traffic management.

• Emission Controls: Limits on emissions from industries, power plants, and brick kilns.

• Open Waste Burning: Prohibition of open waste burning to reduce additional pollution.

• Diesel Generators: Limited use of diesel generators to lower harmful emissions.

• Coal and Firewood Burning: Eateries are banned from using coal or firewood for cooking.

• Construction Restrictions: A ban on private construction and demolition projects exceeding 500 square meters.

• Crackdown on Firecrackers: A ban on the production, storage, and sale of firecrackers until January 1, 2025.

• Old Vehicles Ban: Restrictions on vehicles aged 10-15 years, including both diesel and petrol vehicles.

• Traffic Enforcement: Deployment of traffic police in congested areas to regulate vehicle emissions.

• Waste Burning: Strict enforcement against burning garbage or biomass in the open, with penalties for violations.

• Polluting Vehicles: Immediate action, such as impounding and hefty fines, for visibly polluting vehicles.

Encouraged Actions Under Grap Stage-I

Despite the restrictions, several actions are encouraged to help mitigate pollution and maintain cleaner air:

• Manual Road Sweeping and Water Sprinkling: To reduce dust pollution.

• Vehicle Maintenance: Ensuring engines are properly tuned and tires are correctly inflated.

• Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificates: Keeping vehicle PUC certificates updated.

• Hybrid or Electric Vehicles: Promoting the use of eco-friendly vehicles to minimize vehicular pollution.

• Eco-Friendly Practices: Celebrating festivals in an environmentally responsible manner, including the avoidance of firecrackers.

• Tree Planting: Increasing tree planting initiatives to improve air quality.

Conclusion

With the implementation of Stage-I of the Graded Response Action Plan, authorities in Delhi-NCR are taking proactive measures to address the worsening air quality crisis. These initiatives are vital in safeguarding public health and ensuring cleaner air for the residents of the region. As pollution levels continue to be a pressing concern, ongoing efforts and community participation will be essential in combating this environmental challenge.