GRAP Stage 4 Delhi-NCR measures have been implemented as the region faces a sharp deterioration in air quality. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) issued an order on January 15, 2025, directing the enforcement of severe restrictions to combat the escalating pollution levels.
What Triggered Stage 4 GRAP Measures?
The decision to enforce Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) was prompted by the soaring Air Quality Index (AQI), which climbed from 275 (poor category) to 396 (very poor category) within a day.
- Meteorological Factors:
- Calm winds and low temperatures exacerbated pollutant accumulation.
- Foggy conditions further reduced dispersion of airborne particles.
- Prediction of Deterioration:
- Forecasts by the India Meteorological Department and Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology indicate AQI breaching the 400 mark, moving into the severe-plus category.
Understanding Stage 4 GRAP Restrictions
The GRAP framework divides air quality measures into four stages based on AQI levels. Stage 4, the highest level, corresponds to severe-plus air quality (AQI above 450).
Restrictions Under Stage 4:
- Construction Activities:
- All construction and demolition activities are banned.
- Vehicular Restrictions:
- Entry of non-essential polluting trucks into Delhi is prohibited.
- BS-IV and older diesel-run heavy goods vehicles registered in Delhi are banned, except for essential services.
- Education Sector:
- Schools are mandated to shift classes to a hybrid mode, excluding critical exams for grades 10 and 12.
- Industries and Emissions:
- Non-essential industrial operations contributing to pollution are halted.
- Only essential services and industries with clean energy compliance are permitted to operate.
Why Is GRAP Critical During Winters?
The implementation of GRAP during winter is crucial due to the convergence of various pollution sources and unfavorable weather conditions in Delhi-NCR.
- Key Pollution Sources:
- Vehicular emissions and construction dust.
- Paddy-straw burning in neighboring states like Punjab and Haryana.
- Firecracker emissions during festive seasons.
- Meteorological Impact:
- Cold air traps pollutants closer to the ground, leading to dense smog.
- Lack of wind prevents the dispersal of particulate matter.
Impact of Stage 4 GRAP on Daily Life
The severe restrictions under Stage 4 GRAP significantly impact daily activities in Delhi-NCR.
- Transport:
- Commuters may face challenges due to the reduced number of operational trucks and restricted vehicle movement.
- Public transport usage is likely to surge as authorities discourage private vehicle usage.
- Construction Sector:
- Workers and contractors are affected by the suspension of construction projects.
- Real estate timelines may experience delays due to halted activities.
- Schools and Education:
- Students and teachers must adapt to online or hybrid learning formats.
- Parents face logistical challenges in managing children’s education.
Government and Public Response
Authorities have urged citizens to cooperate with the measures and contribute to pollution reduction.
- Government Initiatives:
- Increased patrolling to enforce bans on polluting vehicles.
- Enhanced monitoring of construction sites to ensure compliance.
- Public Participation:
- Residents are encouraged to use public transport or carpool.
- Avoidance of outdoor activities during peak pollution hours is advised.
Long-Term Solutions for Combating Air Pollution
While GRAP provides a framework for immediate action, long-term strategies are essential to address the recurring pollution crisis in Delhi-NCR.
- Promotion of Green Energy:
- Transition to cleaner energy sources for industrial operations.
- Subsidies for electric vehicles to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
- Sustainable Farming Practices:
- Incentives for farmers to adopt eco-friendly methods to manage crop residue.
- Deployment of technology for efficient paddy-straw disposal.
- Urban Planning and Infrastructure:
- Expansion of green cover to act as natural air purifiers.
- Strengthening public transportation networks to reduce private vehicle dependency.
The Road Ahead for Delhi-NCR
The invocation of Stage 4 GRAP underscores the severity of air pollution in Delhi-NCR and the urgent need for collective action. While immediate restrictions aim to curb pollutant levels, long-term policy changes and active public participation are crucial to achieving sustainable air quality improvement in the region.