The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) developed Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on Monday in light of the deteriorating air quality across Delhi-NCR.
This is an emergency measure to keep the rising pollution levels under control. AQI is now jamming into the ‘severe plus’ category across the region. Current Air Quality and Health Advisory Delhi has been facing toxic-air quality dilemmas since the beginning of November. Certain parts of the city saw an AQI above 450 on November 6, sparking a public health emergency.
The AQI is presently in the ‘severe’ (over 400) range due mainly to vehicle emissions, stubble burning in nearby states, and unfriendly weather conditions, as reported by a system that monitors weather and air quality parameters. The Delhi government then issued advisories recommending fewer outdoor activities for sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, and those afflicted with respiratory disorders.
Restrictions Under GRAP Stage IV
Stage IV of GRAP has some of the strictest restrictions to minimize pollution. The key limits include:
Non-Essential Vehicles-Ban: The entry of diesel-operated trucks, except those carrying essential goods and CNG, electric, or BS-VI vehicles, has been restricted. Non-Delhi registered light commercial vehicles are also barred unless they are CNG or electric. These measures aim to reduce vehicular emissions, one of the main contributors to air pollution in the city.
Stopping construction works: Under GRAP Stage IV, all construction and demolition activities, especially on linear public projects such as highways, flyovers, and power transmission lines, will be halted to regulate dust pollution, significantly contributing to worsening air quality in the winter months.
Office operations and public transport: The government has directed that all public, municipal, and private offices operate at only 50% capacity, with the other half working from home. Odd-even vehicle rationing will be introduced from November 13 to 20 to restrict private vehicle use, thereby alleviating traffic congestion and reducing vehicular emissions.
Problems in Everyday Life
Rigid measures have created disruptions across multiple sectors. All students, barring grades 10 and 12, have their online classes, and students in grades 10 and 12 face indefinite suspension from regular classes. Private car use was prevented, and public transport was expected to increase in demand.
In addition, the government of the NCT of Delhi has increased its awareness campaign, urging residents to wear N95 masks and use air purifiers to protect themselves from the ill-effects of polluted air.
The immediate execution of GRAP Stage IV indicates a need to tackle Delhi’s dire pollution crisis. The environment minister of Delhi, Gopal Rai, suggested that public cooperation is vital in lessening the issue.
The odd-even scheme, last executed in 2019, is expected to be essential in controlling vehicle emissions during the peak pollution period. Discussions are also being held on extending work-from-home provisions for Central Government employees, thus further decreasing road traffic and emissions.
To enforce GRAP-4 so quickly is a clear signal about how alarming the air quality in the region has become and how urgently protection of public health measures ought to be put in place. Residents are urged to be vigilant about local developments and comply with government recommendations while the city struggles with this instance of devastating pollution.
