Delhi-NCR under GRAP-4: Severe air quality triggers restrictions.

Delhi-NCR under GRAP-4: Severe air quality triggers restrictions.
  • GRAP-4 restricts Delhi-NCR truck entry.
  • Construction halts; schools close for most.
  • Work-from-home encouraged for many sectors.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has implemented Stage-IV (Severe+) of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR due to severely deteriorated air quality. This drastic measure, effective from 8 am on Monday, signifies a significant escalation in efforts to combat the worsening air pollution affecting the region. The decision, reached after an urgent meeting of the GRAP subcommittee on November 17th, followed a comprehensive assessment of current air quality indices, weather patterns, and projections from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). The daily average Air Quality Index (AQI) reached a concerning 441, further rising to 457 by 7 PM on the day of the announcement, prompting the immediate implementation of GRAP-4's stringent measures.

GRAP-4 imposes a wide range of restrictions, significantly impacting transportation and construction activities. The most notable restriction is the ban on the entry of most trucks into Delhi, excluding those carrying essential commodities or providing essential services. Only LNG, CNG, electric, and BS-VI diesel trucks are permitted entry. Similarly, light commercial vehicles (LCVs) registered outside Delhi are also banned, with the same exceptions for essential services. A complete ban is enforced on Delhi-registered BS-IV and below diesel-operated medium goods vehicles (MGVs) and heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), again with the exception of those involved in essential services. Construction and demolition activities are halted, mirroring Stage-III restrictions and extending to linear public projects such as highways, roads, flyovers, and utility infrastructure.

The public health and safety measures under GRAP-4 are equally stringent. NCR state governments and the GNCTD (Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi) have the authority to discontinue physical classes for students in classes VI-IX and XI, shifting to online learning. Similar discretionary power rests with the state governments and GNCTD to mandate a 50% work-from-home policy for public, municipal, and private offices. The Central Government can also implement a work-from-home policy for its employees. Further emergency measures, at the discretion of state governments, could include college closures, the closure of non-essential commercial activities, and even the implementation of an odd-even vehicle registration number scheme. Citizens are urged to adhere to the citizen charter, particularly those vulnerable to air pollution, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, who are advised to minimize outdoor activities.

The implementation of GRAP-4 has prompted immediate reactions from Delhi's leadership. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi announced the closure of physical classes for all students except those in classes X and XII, shifting to online learning until further notice. Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai scheduled a meeting with heads of departments to ensure the effective implementation of GRAP-IV's measures. The swift and decisive action reflects the seriousness of the air pollution crisis and the urgency to mitigate its impact on public health. The layered approach, involving restrictions on transportation, construction, and encouraging work-from-home arrangements, aims to significantly reduce emissions and improve air quality in the short term. The long-term implications, however, require more sustainable solutions to address the root causes of air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region.

The success of GRAP-4 hinges on the collective efforts of citizens, businesses, and the government. While the immediate restrictions aim to alleviate the current crisis, the long-term solution necessitates a multifaceted approach involving stricter regulations, improved infrastructure, and a shift towards cleaner energy sources. Continued monitoring of air quality indices, coupled with adaptive measures based on real-time data, will be crucial in managing future episodes of severe air pollution. The economic impact of these restrictions, particularly on the transportation and construction sectors, also needs to be carefully considered and addressed. The GRAP framework, while effective in mitigating immediate crises, requires continuous refinement and adaptation to achieve sustained improvements in air quality over the long term.

Source: GRAP-4 imposed in Delhi-NCR; what's allowed and what's not

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