Given severe air pollution due to the AQI level being at 424, Delhi is now implementing Stage 3 of the GRAP or the Graded Response Action Plan. This is expected to help in some reduction in emissions and levels of risks to health while also providing immediate alleviation for the population.
Key Measures Under GRAP Stage 3
Stage 3 introduces stricter regulations on construction, vehicle use, and outdoor activities. Below are the primary actions being enforced:
Construction and Demolition Restrictions
Most construction and demolition activities, including earthwork, piling, and road construction, are banned. Exceptions are granted for projects of national importance, such as hospitals, metro stations, and highways.
Vehicle Restrictions
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In regions like Delhi and the NCR districts of Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Budh Nagar; light motor vehicles (LMVs) which are up to BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel will no longer be permitted.
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BS-III diesel MGVs which are registered in Delhi will not be allowed except for carrying essential items.
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Interstate buses entering Delhi must operate on CNG, BS-VI diesel, or EV.
Road and Dust Control
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Increased frequency of road sprinkling with water and dust suppressants, especially in high-traffic areas.
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Strict monitoring of waste disposal and dust control at construction sites.
Generator Usage
- Diesel generators are prohibited, with exceptions for essential services.
Stone Crushers and Mining
- All stone crushers and mining activities are suspended in NCR.
Advice for Residents
Authorities are encouraging residents to take proactive steps to reduce personal contributions to pollution:
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Avoid unnecessary outdoor activities, especially during peak pollution hours.
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Use public transport, carpool, or cycle to reduce vehicle emissions.
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Stop burning coal or wood for heating.
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Where possible, opt for remote working arrangements.
Impact on Public Health and Schools
The government is taking steps to protect public health, especially for children and the elderly, due to rising pollution levels. Here are the measures being considered:
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Suspending physical classes for children up to Class V in schools and shifting to online classes if pollution levels persist.
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Reducing outdoor activities for children and elderly individuals, who are most vulnerable to pollution-related health issues.
Why GRAP Stage 3?
After looking over the air quality forecasts, which suggest the AQI will probably remain in the ‘Very Poor’ to ‘Severe’ categories, GRAP Stage 3 has been put into effect. The objectives of the measures are:
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Provide immediate relief to residents.
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Prevent further deterioration of air quality.
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Support long-term pollution control initiatives.
Conclusion
Due to the alarming levels of air quality in Delhi and NCR, the measures under GRAP Stage 3 have become unavoidable. These measures, however, put an additional burden on the public. But they will protect the public and the ecology. Residents are asked to follow the protocols and also promote eco-friendly activities to help in the combat against pollution.
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