What Is GRAP-4 Implemented in Delhi?
Delhi's air quality has reached hazardous levels, leading to the imposition of GRAP Stage 4, with strict measures like school closures, and vehicle restrictions to combat the pollution.
Delhi is currently facing a severe air pollution crisis, with the city’s AQI (Air Quality Index) reaching dangerous levels above 490, which has put it under the "severe-plus" category. In some places, the AQI outside is reported to be more than 1,700, and even inside buildings, it is around 990. This makes it extremely difficult for people to breathe, especially in the mornings.
On 18th November 2024, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) declared GRAP Stage 4 in Delhi and NCR at 8 am. The decision came after an emergency meeting of the GRAP sub-committee, which analyzed air quality data and weather forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and IIT Madras.
What is GRAP?
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a set of emergency measures that are implemented when air quality reaches critical levels. These measures are designed to improve air quality and stop it from getting worse.
The GRAP plan categorizes air quality into four stages:
- Stage 1: Poor (AQI 201-300)
- Stage 2: Very Poor (AQI 301-400)
- Stage 3: Severe (AQI 401-450)
- Stage 4: Severe Plus (AQI above 450)
What measures are being taken under GRAP Stage 4?
Under GRAP Stage 4, the following measures have been imposed:
- Health Advisory: Children, the elderly, and people with lung, heart, or brain problems are advised to stay indoors as much as possible. Everyone is asked to wear masks when stepping outside.
- Odd-Even Car Rule: The odd-even car rule has been re-imposed to reduce vehicle pollution. People are also encouraged to carpool or use public transport.
- Truck Restrictions: Non-essential trucks and heavy diesel vehicles have been banned from entering Delhi. Only trucks carrying essential goods are allowed.
- School Closures: All schools have shifted classes online, with only 10th and 12th-grade students initially attending in-person for their exams. However, the Supreme Court later ordered the closure of all in-person classes for students up to 12th grade.
- Government Office Hours: Delhi’s new Chief Minister, Atishi Marlena, has announced new working hours for government offices to help reduce pollution.
- Construction Ban: Construction activities, including building roads and flyovers, have been banned to reduce dust pollution.
- Other Measures: Extra road sweeping machines and water sprinklers have been deployed to control the smog. The government is also considering allowing 50% of workers in offices to work from home to cut down on pollution.
The Supreme Court has ordered that GRAP Stage 4 will remain in place even if air quality improves, until further notice.
What Can You Do?
Inhaling such toxic air can be harmful to health. To protect yourself from the dangerous smog, watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cl65mn2FqRw
If you want to understand more about AQI and its different categories, watch this video by ISH News: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ht_6CN3V7Xk
