Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage I – Combating Air Pollution in Delhi-NCR

Context:

Delhi Government notifies curbs on firecrackers; GRAP Stage 1 plan kicks in.

Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP):

• It is a framework designed tocombat air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region
• It wasintroduced as an emergency response mechanism, and its implementation is triggered when the AQI reaches “poor” levels.
• Implementation of GRAP:The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR and adjoining areas oversees the implementation ofGraded Response Action Plan
• It collaborates with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).

Different Stages of GRAP to Tackle Air Pollution in Delhi-NCR

• Revision of GRAP:Graded Response Action Plan was revised as the CAQM “anticipated deterioration of air quality in NCR during winter months.
• Graded Response Action Plan consists of four stages,each with targeted actions to be taken by the necessary authorities and agencies
• Stage I – “Poor” air quality (Delhi AQI: 201-300):Strict enforcement of regulations on overaged diesel/petrol vehicles.
• Stage II – “Very Poor” air quality (Delhi AQI: 301-400):Focused action in identified pollution hotspots.
• Limited operation hours for certain diesel generators.
• Stage III – “Severe” air quality (Delhi AQI: 401-450):Restrictions on specific vehicles in certain districts.
• Possible shift to online classes for younger students.
• Stage IV – “Severe+” air quality (Delhi AQI > 450):Stringent entry restrictions for vehicles from outside Delhi.
• Potential closure of educational institutions and non-essential businesses.

Significance of GRAP – Empowering Public Health

• Safeguarding Public Health:GRAP is pivotal in safeguarding public health, especially during peak pollution seasons.
• Proactive Pollution Management: Its proactive approach ensures that measures are taken before air quality deteriorates significantly, preventing adverse health effects and environmental damage.
• Adaptive Pollution Control:The plan’s dynamic nature allows it to adapt to changing pollution levels, providing a comprehensive strategy to combat air pollution.

The implementation ofGRAP Stage I in Delhi-NCRmarks a crucial step in combating air pollution, focusing on the significance of proactive measures for public health and environmental sustainability. Itsadaptive nature and stringent actionsunderscore its pivotal role in safeguarding the well-being of the region