In a drastic move, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has immediately enforced all measures under Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the entire National Capital Region. Delhi’s air quality fell into the “Severe Plus” category, indicating a public health emergency, which prompted this emergency measure.
What Does “Severe Plus” Mean for Delhi?
The shift to GRAP Stage IV is mandated when the Air Quality Index (AQI) crosses the critical threshold of 450. According to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, the AQI was recorded at 448 at 7 pm on Saturday, hovering perilously close to the mark. According to Delhi’s Air Quality Early Warning System, Sunday’s extreme conditions are predicted to last until Monday, when modest improvement to the “Very Poor” category is expected.
What Has Changed in the GRAP Rules This Year?
This season, the CAQM has overhauled the GRAP framework, making it more proactive. The severity thresholds have been moved earlier, which means tougher anti-pollution steps now begin at lower AQI levels than before. This change is meant to prevent pollution from worsening, instead of responding once it becomes dangerous.
How Are the New Stages Different?
Under the new system, what were earlier Stage 4 measures have been moved to Stage 3. This means that when AQI reaches the 301–400 range—from ‘Very Poor’ to ‘Severe’—public, municipal, and private offices must run at 50% capacity, while central government offices will move to work-from-home. Previously, these rules applied only after AQI crossed 450. Similarly, Stage 2 steps, such guaranteeing continuous power to curb diesel generators, begin in the 101-200 (‘Moderate’) AQI range, while Stage 3 measures, including staggered office schedules, now activate in the 201-300 (‘Poor’) band.
What Immediate Measures Does GRAP Stage IV Include?
While the full directive is detailed, Stage IV typically involves the most stringent curbs. These often include a ban on all construction and demolition activities, restrictions on the entry of trucks into Delhi, and a possible odd-even scheme for private vehicles. This action reflects the administration’s desperate endeavor to prevent the already dangerous air in the region from getting worse.
Key FAQs:
Q: What triggers GRAP Stage IV?
A: GRAP Stage IV is triggered when the average AQI for Delhi crosses 450, entering the ‘Severe Plus’ category.
Q: How is this year’s GRAP different?
A: The revised plan is more proactive. Stricter measures now apply at lower AQI levels. For example, 50% staff strength in offices is now a Stage 3 measure (AQI 301-400), not Stage 4.
Q: When is air quality expected to improve?
A: As per the early warning system, air quality is likely to remain ‘Severe’ on Sunday and may improve to the ‘Very Poor’ category on Monday.