New Delhi. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) have issued warnings indicating severe deterioration in air quality over Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) on October 23 and 24. In response, the central government’s Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has directed officials to implement Phase 2 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). These measures to tackle pollution will be implemented across the National Capital Region (NCR). As part of this directive, CAQM has urged the authorities to increase parking charges in NCR with the aim of reducing private vehicle usage. Additionally, the Commission has called for expansion of CNG or electric bus and metro train services.
According to news agency PTI, the average air quality index (AQI) in Delhi on Saturday was 248. In light of this, the Commission has decided to immediately implement the Phase II measures along with the steps already taken under the Phase I of GRAP.
Stages of GRAP and AQI levels
In the Delhi-NCR region, GRAP has been classified into four phases based on Air Quality Index (AQI). The first stage is activated when the AQI is between 201 and 300, indicating ‘poor’ air quality. The second phase relates to AQI levels from 301 to 400, indicating ‘very poor’ conditions. The third phase corresponds to AQI levels of 401 to 450, indicating ‘severe’ air quality. The fourth phase begins when the AQI exceeds 450, indicating a situation worse than ‘severe’.
Measures enacted at each phase of GRAP
During the first phase, orders have been issued to stop construction and demolition activities on plots of more than 500 square meters which are not registered on the state government portal to monitor dust control measures. Additionally, strict penalties are enforced against industrial units and thermal power plants that contribute to pollution within a 300 km radius of Delhi. Moreover, the use of coal and wood in tandoor (earthen oven) in hotels, restaurants and open eateries is completely prohibited.
1-Emphasis on ensuring proper implementation of dust control measures
Ensuring proper implementation of guidelines to control dust emissions from construction and demolition sites also falls within the scope of the first phase.
2-Restricting the use of private vehicles
Under the second phase, steps have been taken to reduce the use of private vehicles by increasing parking fees. Apart from this, emphasis is also being laid on promoting CNG/electric buses and metro services.
3-Strict action against vehicles causing pollution
In the third phase, strict action will be taken against petrol-powered BS-3 engine vehicles and diesel-powered BS-4 four-wheelers in Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddha Nagar.
4-Prohibition on construction and demolition activities
The fourth phase includes a complete ban on all types of construction and demolition activities. State governments are also authorized to take decisions regarding online classes for school students and work from home arrangements for both government and private offices during such situations.