The Centre’s air pollution control panel for Delhi-NCR has directed state governments in the region to implement Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), as the capital’s air quality remained in the ‘poor’ category for the second consecutive day.
Stage I of GRAP, a winter-specific set of anti-pollution measures, focuses on curbing pollution through dust control at construction sites, waste management and road cleaning. It also enforces strict checks on polluting vehicles, better traffic management and emission control in industries, power plants and brick kilns. Additionally, it bans open burning of waste, limits diesel generator use, and restricts the use of coal and firewood in eateries.
Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) stood at 234 as of 4 pm on Monday, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)’s Sub-Committee decided to implement Stage I measures after reviewing the air quality and weather forecasts. Pollution control authorities in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Rajasthan were instructed to begin enforcing these measures from 8 am on Tuesday.
GRAP is divided into four stages, with Stage I addressing ‘Poor’ air quality (AQI 201-300), and higher stages activated as air quality worsens. Stage II is activated when AQI is ‘Very Poor’ (AQI 301-400); Stage III – ‘Severe’ (AQI 401-450); and Stage IV – ‘Severe Plus’ (AQI >450).