As Air Quality Dips, Delhi-NCR Under GRAP-4: What Is GRAP And What Do The Levels Mean?

In response to the worsening air quality in New Delhi, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) Sub-Committee has taken a decisive step. It has opted to activate all measures outlined in Stage-III (Severe Air Quality) and Stage-IV (Severe+ Air Quality) of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) with immediate effect. This action is in addition to the measures already in place under Stage-I and Stage-II, aiming to curb the pollution levels that continue to negatively impact the national capital.

The initiative by the CAQM to implement these stages underscores the critical need to combat the escalating air pollution in the city. This proactive approach demonstrates the committee's commitment to mitigating the harmful effects of pollution on the health of New Delhi's residents. By integrating these additional measures, the CAQM seeks to significantly improve air quality and safeguard the well-being of the city's populace.

With the air quality in New Delhi persisting at poor levels, as evidenced by residents donning face masks at Kartavya Path, it's clear that immediate and effective action is necessary. The CAQM's decision to escalate its response to the pollution crisis is a vital step towards restoring cleaner air in the capital. This intensified effort is crucial for addressing the significant environmental challenge that continues to affect millions in the city.

GRAP Levels Explained: What Do They Mean for Delhi-NCR?

The air quality in Delhi-NCR has significantly deteriorated, transitioning from "Poor" to "Very Poor," according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). In response, Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) was implemented on October 6 following an emergency meeting to address the issue. With air quality continuing to decline, authorities have now escalated to Stage II of GRAP.

What is the Air Quality Index (AQI)?

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a government-issued measure to monitor and communicate air pollution levels. It highlights potential health impacts, with higher AQI values indicating greater risks. AQI is calculated based on pollutant concentrations over a specific period and is categorized into the following ranges:

0-50: Good
51-100: Satisfactory
101-200: Moderate
201-300: Poor
301-400: Very Poor
401-450: Severe
450+: Severe+

What is GRAP?

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a regulatory framework aimed at combating air pollution in Delhi-NCR. It serves as an emergency response mechanism, activated when AQI levels cross "Poor" thresholds.

Who Oversees GRAP Implementation?

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR and surrounding regions oversees GRAP's implementation, working closely with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).

GRAP Levels and Actions

In 2023, GRAP was updated to anticipate worsening air quality during winter, according to the MoEFCC. It comprises four stages, each with targeted measures:

Stage I - "Poor" (AQI: 201-300)
- Enforce strict regulations on older diesel/petrol vehicles.

Stage II - "Very Poor" (AQI: 301-400)
- Focused measures in pollution hotspots.
- Restricted operational hours for diesel generators.

Stage III - "Severe" (AQI: 401-450)
- Vehicle restrictions in specific districts.
- Possible transition to online classes for younger students.

Stage IV - "Severe+" (AQI > 450)
- Ban on entry of non-essential vehicles into Delhi.
- Potential closure of schools, colleges, and non-essential businesses.

Why is GRAP Important?

GRAP is a critical tool for protecting public health and mitigating environmental harm during peak pollution periods. By implementing preemptive and adaptive measures, it reduces the impact of severe pollution on citizens and ensures a coordinated response to evolving air quality challenges.

As Delhi-NCR braces for worsening air quality, collective efforts from authorities and residents remain essential to addressing the growing pollution crisis.