Delhi's Fight Against Pollution: GRAP-II Implemented Amid Worsening Air Quality

Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced that the GRAP-II rules have been activated as the AQI exceeded 300, indicating very poor air quality. New measures include regulating diesel generators and increasing public transport frequency. An 11-point action plan focuses on reducing vehicular and dust pollution and improving air quality enforcement.

In response to deteriorating air quality across North India, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai revealed on Tuesday that the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-II) has been implemented as the Air Quality Index (AQI) breached the 300 mark. He emphasized five critical initiatives within GRAP-II, including regulating diesel generators and bolstering the frequency of metros and buses. To discourage the use of private cars, parking fees will be raised, directly targeting dust and vehicular pollution as part of a broader crackdown.

A high-level meeting with senior officials has been convened to enhance GRAP-II's deployment across Delhi NCR. This urgent assembly follows the Commission for Air Quality Management's (CAQM) mandate for GRAP-II enforcement after Delhi registered an average AQI of 310, placing it firmly in the 'Very Poor' category according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change stated that ongoing adverse weather and meteorological conditions are likely to keep Delhi's AQI in the 'Very Poor' category. Consequently, the CAQM's Sub-Committee has ordered comprehensive implementation of Stage II GRAP interventions starting from 8:00 AM on October 22, 2024, across the National Capital Region (NCR). These measures include intensified inspections at construction sites, mechanical road cleaning, and enhanced public transport utilization, aimed at curbing further air quality degradation.

(With inputs from agencies.)