GRAP Explained: Delhi's Strategy Against Air Pollution

What is GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan)?

GRAP is a comprehensive emergency action plan introduced in 2017 aimed at mitigating air pollution. This initiative categorizes air quality into four distinct stages:

• Stage 1: Poor (AQI 201-300)
• Stage 2: Very Poor (AQI 301-400)
• Stage 3: Severe (AQI 401-450)
• Stage 4: Severe+ (AQI above 450)

Each stage activates specific pollution control measures, which can include restrictions on vehicular movement and halting construction activities.

Why Was GRAP-4 Invoked?

GRAP-4, the highest alert level, was activated when Delhi's AQI exceeded 450, reaching 'Severe+' on Sunday. The worsening air quality resulted in poor visibility and raised health concerns, prompting the enforcement of stringent measures. By Monday, there was a slight improvement in AQI, yet it remained at hazardous levels.

What Does GRAP-4 Mandate?

GRAP-4 implements several critical measures:

• Banning the entry of trucks carrying non-essential commodities into Delhi.
• Extending the ban on construction and demolition activities, including infrastructure projects like highways and metro works.
• Prohibiting diesel-operated medium and heavy vehicles, unless they comply with BS-VI standards or are transporting essential goods.
• Restricting non-emergency activities in educational and governmental institutions.

Why Are Pollution Levels in Delhi So High?

The severe air pollution in Delhi can be attributed to several primary factors:

• Stubble Burning: Farmers in Punjab and Haryana continue to burn crop residue, which contributes to approximately 40% of Delhi’s pollution.
• Vehicular Emissions: Increased traffic density, particularly from non-compliant vehicles, exacerbates air quality issues.
• Construction Dust: Unregulated construction activities release significant amounts of particulate matter into the air.
• Geographical and Weather Conditions: Factors such as low wind speeds, cool temperatures, and limited rainfall trap pollutants closer to the ground.

Can We Expect Improvement Soon?

Despite the implementation of GRAP measures, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts that air quality will remain poor for the next few days due to unfavorable weather conditions, including low wind speeds and cool temperatures. However, these interventions may gradually lead to improvements in air quality. As the saying goes, “A clean environment is a reflection of collective responsibility.”