To tackle the rising air pollution in Delhi-NCR, the strictest anti-pollution measures under Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) were enforced. Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) today reached 386, placing it in the ‘Very Poor’ category (301-400), as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
The hazardous air quality in Delhi-NCR is mainly due to unfavorable weather, vehicle emissions, paddy-straw burning, and other local pollution sources, particularly during the winter months.
With the cold weather worsening the air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has implemented measures under both Stage-3 (Severe) and Stage-4 (Severe+) of the pollution control plan. These actions are in addition to the already enforced Stage-1 and Stage-2 measures across the region.
Delhi Re-imposes GRAP 4 Restrictions
On Wednesday, the Centre re-imposed GRAP 4 restrictions in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) due to a decline in air quality.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) sub-committee decided to enforce all actions under Stage-III (‘Severe Air Quality’) and Stage-IV (‘Severe+’ Air Quality) of the GRAP schedule, with immediate effect. These measures are in addition to the ongoing Stage-I and II actions.
The statement emphasized that all actions under the GRAP schedule will be implemented, monitored, and reviewed by the relevant agencies across NCR to prevent further deterioration of air quality. Citizens have been urged to strictly follow the guidelines under the GRAP citizen charter.
Earlier, on January 12, the CAQM had lifted Stage-3 restrictions after the AQI improved following rainfall.
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Delhi-NCR Schools Shift to Online Mode Due to GRAP 4 Restrictions
In response to worsening air quality, schools in Delhi-NCR have been instructed to move to online or hybrid classes under Stage 4 restrictions of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This decision applies to all schools, except for those classes that are preparing for important exams, specifically classes 10 and 12. These higher-grade classes will continue in person but with extra precautions.
Stage 4 restrictions also impose a number of other changes. One major rule is the complete ban on construction activities in the region to prevent dust and other pollutants from worsening the air quality. Additionally, non-essential diesel trucks, which contribute to pollution, are not allowed to enter Delhi.
The restriction includes diesel trucks that are older than BS-IV standards. However, trucks carrying essential goods or services are allowed.
The GRAP system helps monitor and manage air quality in Delhi-NCR, dividing it into four stages based on the Air Quality Index (AQI). Here’s how the stages are defined:
- Stage 1 (Poor): The AQI is between 201 and 300, which means the air quality is bad and can affect people with breathing issues.
- Stage 2 (Very Poor): The AQI ranges from 301 to 400, indicating very unhealthy air quality. This stage is likely to affect a wider group of people, including healthy individuals.
- Stage 3 (Severe): The AQI is between 401 and 450, marking extremely harmful air quality. This can pose serious health risks to everyone.
- Stage 4 (Severe Plus): The AQI is above 450, which is the most hazardous level. At this stage, the air is considered extremely dangerous for all, especially those with respiratory issues.
The primary reason for the deteriorating air quality in winter months is a mix of poor weather conditions and high levels of pollution. Several factors contribute to this, including vehicle emissions, the burning of paddy straw in nearby areas, firecrackers, and other local pollution sources. The combination of these factors makes the air in Delhi-NCR hazardous during the colder months, leading to the need for strict pollution control measures.
Also Read: Delhi Pollution Hits ‘Severe Plus,’ GRAP-IV Measures Imposed
FAQs
Q.1. What is GRAP Stage 4?
Ans. GRAP Stage 4 is the highest level of pollution control measures, implemented when the Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeds 450, indicating extremely hazardous air quality.
Q.2. Why are schools moving online in Delhi-NCR?
Ans. Due to the worsening air quality under Stage 4 restrictions, schools in Delhi-NCR have been instructed to shift to online or hybrid classes to protect students’ health.
Q.3. What are the reasons for Delhi-NCR’s air pollution?
Ans. Unfavorable weather, vehicle emissions, burning of paddy straw, firecrackers, and other local pollution sources contribute to the hazardous air quality in Delhi-NCR, especially in winter.
Q.4. What measures are being enforced under GRAP Stage 4?
Ans. GRAP Stage 4 restrictions include banning construction activities, prohibiting non-essential diesel trucks, and shifting schools to online learning to reduce exposure to poor air quality.
Q.5. What is the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi today?
Ans. As of today, the AQI in Delhi has reached 386, placing it in the ‘Very Poor’ category, as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
