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The alarming deterioration of Delhi's air quality has once again triggered the implementation of stringent measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The air quality index (AQI) soared past 400, categorizing the air as 'Severe+', prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to activate GRAP Stage 4 restrictions across the National Capital Region (NCR). This drastic escalation follows a day where GRAP Stage 3 was in effect, highlighting the rapid and severe decline in air quality. The rapid deterioration underscores the urgency of the situation and the challenges faced in managing Delhi's recurring air pollution crisis.
The imposition of GRAP 4 involves a comprehensive set of restrictions aimed at curbing pollution levels. These measures include a complete ban on the movement of BS-IV diesel and BS-III petrol vehicles within Delhi-NCR. Truck traffic entering Delhi is halted, and all construction and demolition activities, including those related to linear public projects like highways and flyovers, are suspended. The severity of the situation also leaves the possibility of additional closures. The government may decide to implement a 50% work-from-home mandate for public, municipal, and private offices. State governments are empowered to take further steps, such as closing colleges and non-essential businesses, or even implementing an odd-even vehicle registration number system.
The impact of the poor air quality extends beyond transportation and construction. The recommendations from health experts urge vulnerable populations – children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions – to minimize outdoor activities and remain indoors. The implementation of GRAP 4 underscores the broader public health concern associated with prolonged exposure to severely polluted air. The significant health risks associated with such levels of air pollution cannot be overlooked. Hospitals are likely to see an increase in respiratory illnesses and other health complications directly linked to this air quality crisis. This is a crucial factor to consider when examining the full impact of the GRAP 4 restrictions.
The current air pollution crisis in Delhi is not an isolated incident. Last month witnessed consistently poor air quality, triggering health warnings and prompting legal action. The Supreme Court has been actively involved in addressing this annual environmental challenge, holding several hearings to examine various contributing factors, including farm fires and the effectiveness of measures to control vehicular emissions. The court's scrutiny extends to the enforcement of existing regulations. Previous instances of insufficient adherence to GRAP restrictions, particularly the continuation of non-essential construction activities during GRAP-IV, have drawn strong criticism from the court. The court also questioned the authorities’ responsiveness to escalating AQI levels, prompting inquiries regarding the delayed implementation of stricter measures.
The interplay between environmental regulations, government action, and judicial oversight is central to the ongoing efforts to manage Delhi's air quality. The cyclical nature of the crisis underscores the need for a more proactive and comprehensive long-term strategy. This needs to tackle both immediate solutions like enforcing GRAP regulations effectively and address the root causes of air pollution, including industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and agricultural practices. A holistic approach that considers technological improvements, environmental policy reform, and public awareness campaigns is crucial for sustainable and lasting improvements in Delhi's air quality. The current situation serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for sustained collaboration between governmental bodies, regulatory agencies, and the public to effectively combat this persistent and serious environmental threat.
Source: GRAP-4 Restrictions Reimposed In Delhi As Air Quality Dips To 'Severe+'