Delhi's Choking Challenge: GRAP Stage II Unleashed as Pollution Soars Ahead of Diwali

A thick, hazardous haze is once again casting a grim shadow over Delhi-NCR, forcing authorities to escalate pollution control measures. With air quality rapidly deteriorating into the 'poor' and even 'very poor' categories, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has officially implemented Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).

This urgent move comes as the region braces for the festival of Diwali, a period traditionally associated with a significant spike in air pollution.

The decision to trigger GRAP Stage II was made after a crucial meeting of the sub-committee, noting the alarming trend of the Air Quality Index (AQI) continuously slipping.

Currently, Delhi's 24-hour average AQI stands perilously close to the 'very poor' mark, a classification that demands stricter intervention to protect public health.

Under the new directives, several crucial restrictions are now in effect across Delhi and the National Capital Region. One of the most impactful measures is the outright ban on running diesel generator sets, except for essential services, a significant contributor to local emissions.

Additionally, parking fees have been hiked to discourage private vehicle use, pushing commuters towards public transportation. To support this shift, both bus and metro services are being intensified, aiming to offer a more viable and appealing alternative to personal cars.

The curbs also target industrial and commercial activities.

The use of coal and firewood in hotels, restaurants, and open eateries is now strictly prohibited, a measure designed to cut down on fine particulate matter. Authorities are intensifying mechanised sweeping and water sprinkling on roads to suppress dust, and vigilance against open burning of waste is being significantly stepped up.

This isn't Delhi's first brush with GRAP; Stage I measures, focusing on general awareness and basic controls, were already in place.

However, the current situation, exacerbated by unfavorable meteorological conditions and the anticipated increase in farm fires from neighboring states, necessitated the jump to Stage II. Forecasters predict that if no further action is taken, the AQI could soon breach the 'very poor' threshold, threatening the respiratory health of millions.

The looming Diwali festival presents an additional challenge.

Despite bans, firecracker use often leads to severe air quality degradation. The CAQM's timely intervention aims to pre-empt a full-blown air emergency, ensuring that the existing pollution load is contained before the festive period adds to the burden. Should the situation worsen further, pushing the AQI into 'severe' or 'severe+' categories, the emergency GRAP Stages III and IV, which involve even more drastic measures like a ban on construction activities and entry restrictions for trucks, would be activated.

For residents of Delhi-NCR, this means a renewed focus on personal responsibility and adherence to the guidelines.

The collective effort is crucial to navigate these challenging weeks and work towards a breathable future for the megacity.