Delhi Chokes: Air Quality Plummets to 'Very Poor', Stricter GRAP Measures Enforced

Delhi finds itself once again battling a severe air pollution crisis as the city's air quality has plummeted into the 'very poor' category. This alarming deterioration has prompted authorities to swiftly implement the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage II, unleashing a new wave of restrictions designed to curb the toxic smog and protect public health.

As per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) surged to a concerning 322.

This figure, firmly within the 'very poor' range, signifies significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations and those with pre-existing conditions. The decision to invoke GRAP Stage II came from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas, highlighting the immediate need for escalated intervention.

Under the enhanced GRAP Stage II, several stringent measures are now in force.

A crucial step is the outright ban on the use of coal and firewood in tandoors and similar heating appliances within hotels, restaurants, and open eateries. This aims to reduce particulate matter emissions significantly. Furthermore, the operation of diesel generator sets is prohibited across the NCR, with exceptions only for essential services such as hospitals, railways, metro services, airports, and other emergency facilities, ensuring critical operations remain uninterrupted.

Beyond these primary bans, authorities are also ramping up other pollution control efforts.

Parking fees have been augmented to discourage private vehicle use, and public transport services are being significantly augmented, including an increased frequency of metro and bus services, to encourage a shift towards sustainable commuting. To combat visible dust, water sprinklers and anti-smog guns are being deployed more intensively, especially at pollution hotspots.

The enforcement extends to construction and demolition sites, where strict adherence to dust control norms is now paramount.

Any open burning of biomass, municipal solid waste, or other waste materials is strictly prohibited, with night patrolling intensified to catch and penalize violators. These measures are critical to prevent further accumulation of pollutants in the atmosphere.

These Stage II restrictions build upon the existing GRAP Stage I measures, which were already targeting sources like construction dust, traffic congestion, and open waste burning.

The combined force of these stages represents a multi-pronged attack on Delhi's persistent air quality challenge, reflecting the serious commitment to improving the breathable air for its residents.

With meteorologists forecasting the air quality to remain in the 'very poor' category for the coming days, the effectiveness of these measures will be under intense scrutiny.

The health and well-being of millions depend on the swift and decisive action taken now to navigate through this recurring environmental crisis.