GRAP-2 implemented in Delhi- NCR, curbs imposed

GRAP Stage 2 include higher parking charges to discourage the use of private vehicles, a ban on coal and firewood in hotels and restaurants

GRAP-2 implemented in Delhi- NCR, curbs imposed: Delhi-NCR continues to witness a decline in air quality, raising fresh concerns over pollution levels. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Monday has implemented the second phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across NCR with immediate effect. The development came after the capital’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 324.

Delhi-NCR will celebrate Diwali amid strict restrictions this year. CAQM in its order dated November 2, cited an AQI reading of 324, which falls in the ‘very poor’ category. The commission said unfavorable meteorological conditions had contributed to the deterioration.  The India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) indicated that air quality could remain in this category over the coming days.

The restrictions under GRAP Stage 2 include higher parking charges to discourage the use of private vehicles, a ban on coal and firewood in hotels and restaurants, and tighter regulations on diesel generator sets. Authorities have also been asked to ramp up mechanical road sweeping and water sprinkling with dust suppressants to control pollution.

The main restrictions are as follows-

1. Strictness on the use of diesel generators.

2. Parking charges will be increased to reduce the use of private vehicles, so that people use public transport, CNG or electric vehicles more.

3. In Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Gautam Budh Nagar, the working hours of government and municipal bodies offices may be varied to reduce traffic pressure.

4. The central government can decide to change the timings of central government offices located in Delhi-NCR.

Advice for common people-

1. Use public transport as much as possible and drive less.

2. Give priority to less congested routes, even if the route is a bit longer.

3. Change the air filter of the vehicle on time.

4. Keep kitchen chimney filters in homes clean.

5. Avoid smoke-producing activities outside homes and in public places.

6. People whose nature of work permits can work from home.

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Officials say that the pollution situation is being continuously monitored. If air quality continues to deteriorate, subsequent phases of the GRAP may be implemented. Citizens have been appealed to follow these restrictions and contribute to reducing pollution at the individual level as well.