Delhi Implements GRAP Stage 2 Amid Worsening Air Quality
With Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) worsening, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) activated stage two of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) this morning. Real-time data from the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) recorded an AQI of 317 at 8 a.m., placing Delhi in the “very poor” category. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts that the AQI will remain in this category due to unfavorable weather conditions.
Stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana is also contributing to Delhi’s pollution spike, particularly in October and November after the harvest season. In response, stage two of GRAP enforces strict measures. The use of coal, firewood, and diesel generators is banned across Delhi-NCR. Mechanical sweeping and water sprinkling on roads will be carried out daily to control dust, especially at construction and demolition sites.
To reduce traffic emissions, authorities will deploy more personnel at congestion points, increase parking fees, and enhance bus and metro services. Residents are urged to use public transport and avoid personal vehicles. People are also advised to regularly replace air filters in their vehicles and avoid dust-producing activities from October to January.
These steps build upon stage one of GRAP, which has been in effect since mid-October. Stage one already includes periodic road sweeping, dust mitigation, and bans on waste burning. The measures aim to curb further deterioration of air quality as winter approaches.
If the AQI rises above 400, stage three of GRAP will come into effect. This will trigger even stricter restrictions, including halting stone-crushing activities and mining. Public transport services will also be intensified, and non-compliant diesel vehicles will face bans. Additionally, classes for young children could be suspended to protect their health.
In the event of AQI exceeding 450, stage four will be enforced. This would lead to a ban on construction activities and the suspension of truck entries into Delhi. The government may also introduce emergency measures like closing schools and limiting office attendance to 50%.
To further combat air pollution, the Delhi government launched the “Red Light On, Gaadi Off” campaign, urging drivers to turn off engines at traffic signals. Environment Minister Gopal Rai emphasized the importance of reducing vehicle emissions. He also highlighted additional efforts, including a green war room, an anti-dust campaign, and the use of bio-decomposers over 5,000 acres to manage stubble burning.
These combined efforts reflect the urgency to control pollution as the city prepares for worsening air quality in the coming weeks.
