In response to the alarming rise in pollution levels, Delhi NCR has reintroduced portions of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-3) after a 24-day hiatus. The central government, in a bid to combat severe air quality issues, has implemented specific measures under GRAP-3, affecting various activities and introducing fines for non-compliance.
Intensified Anti-Pollution Measures: Fighting Pollution Head-On
Following the recommendations of the Central Monitoring Committee on Air Quality Management (CMQM), Delhi has implemented a range of intensified anti-pollution measures. These include increased vacuum cleaning of roads, pre-peak hour water sprinkling, efficient disposal of road dust, and water spraying at pollution hotspots and busy streets. Notably, all construction and demolition activities within the city have been brought to a complete halt.
Restrictions Under GRAP-3: A Comprehensive Ban List
GRAP-3 enforces a ban on multiple activities, including excavation and filling work for construction, structural construction, welding, demolition activities, and the loading and unloading of construction materials. Additional prohibitions cover tile cutting, grinding, mining-related activities, and the operation of concrete and hot mix plants.
Public Transportation and Travel Encouragement: Easing the Burden on Roads
In an effort to alleviate pollution from vehicular emissions, authorities have directed an increase in public transportation services. Commuters are encouraged to travel during non-peak hours, with differentiated fares for busy and non-busy times. Furthermore, driving on unpaved roads has now been restricted to reduce dust emissions.
Exemptions from Restrictions: Essential Services and National Importance
Despite the stringent restrictions, GRAP-3 provides exemptions for projects deemed essential to national importance. These include railways, metro services, airports, interstate bus terminals, national security, defense, hospitals, roads, highways, flyovers, electricity supply, water supply, and sewage management.
Delhi’s Air Quality Woes: A Lingering Crisis
Delhi, the second most polluted city in India, is grappling with severe air quality concerns as the air quality index soared above 400, categorizing it as ‘severe’. Persistent fog and low wind speeds have exacerbated local conditions, with air quality expected to remain in the ‘severe’ category over the weekend and on Christmas Day.
GRAP-3 Reimplemented After Three Weeks: A Recap
The reinstatement of GRAP-3 comes after a lapse of nearly three weeks since its initial implementation. Previous GRAP phases were implemented on specific dates, and the current reimplementation is in response to the worsening pollution scenario in the region.
🔍 Important Information Table: Key Details at a Glance
- GRAP-3 Reimplementation Date: After 24 days
- Key Measures: Increased road cleaning, water sprinkling, construction ban
- Public Transport: Encouragement of non-peak hour travel
- Exemptions: Essential services and national importance projects
- Air Quality Index: Above 400 (‘Severe’ category)
- Next Review: Over the Christmas weekend
