As winter approaches, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has issued revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) guidelines to combat air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR) and surrounding areas.

Overview of Revised GRAP Guidelines

Issued under Section 12 of the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021, these revised guidelines aim to implement stricter and more predictive measures to address deteriorating air quality, particularly during the winter months. The new measures will be activated based on daily Air Quality Index (AQI) forecasts for Delhi and NCR.

Key GRAP Measures

The updated GRAP includes several new measures:

• Increase in Parking Fees: Aimed at reducing vehicular pollution, the revised guidelines propose an increase in parking fees to decrease road congestion and emissions during the winter season.

Historical Context

Initially implemented in January 2017 based on recommendations from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), GRAP has been a critical tool in managing air pollution in Delhi-NCR. Over the years, it has undergone several revisions to adapt to evolving environmental challenges and insights gained from its implementation.

CAQM's Latest Enforcement

The CAQM enforced the new GRAP measures in an order dated September 17. Under Stage III of GRAP, which is triggered when the AQI breaches 400, the following measures will be enforced:

• Restriction on Inter-State Buses: All inter-state buses from NCR states, except electric vehicles, CNG vehicles, and BS-VI diesel buses, will be prohibited from entering Delhi.

• Ban on Construction and Demolition Activities: A stringent ban on all construction and demolition activities across the NCR will be implemented.

• Suspension of Mining Activities: All mining-related activities will be suspended.

• Online Classes for Young Students: Consideration will be given to shifting to online classes for students up to Class V.

• Daily Water Sprinkling: Daily water sprinkling on major roads will be carried out to reduce dust pollution.

Conclusion

The revised GRAP guidelines reflect CAQM's commitment to implementing more rigorous measures to improve air quality in Delhi and NCR, especially during the critical winter months. These actions are part of a broader effort to ensure a healthier environment for residents.

Also Read: NPS Vatsalya: A New Pension Scheme for Minors Launched by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman