The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked Stage-I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the National Capital Region (NCR) as Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 217, falling under the ‘Poor’ category. This decision comes after a review by the CAQM sub-committee, considering air quality trends and forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).
With immediate effect, a 27-point action plan has been rolled out, involving strict measures to curb air pollution. Authorities, including Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) and Pollution Control Boards (PCBs) of NCR states, have been instructed to enforce regulations to curb pollution. The measures include controlling dust from construction activities, ensuring proper disposal of waste, intensifying water sprinkling on roads, and enforcing emission norms in industries and power plants.
Authorities have also been directed to keep a strict check on vehicular emissions. Traffic police will manage congestion, and visibly polluting vehicles will face penalties. The use of old diesel and petrol vehicles will be restricted, and non-destined truck traffic will be diverted from Delhi. Additionally, the use of diesel generator sets is discouraged to minimize emissions.
Citizens have been urged to actively participate in improving air quality by following simple steps such as maintaining vehicle fitness, using electric or hybrid vehicles, avoiding open waste burning, and reporting polluting activities through various mobile apps like the Green Delhi App, SAMEER App, and 311 App. Celebrating festivals in an eco-friendly manner and planting more trees have also been encouraged.
Enforcement agencies have been asked to remain vigilant, ensuring adherence to pollution control guidelines. Industries and brick kilns must comply with approved fuel usage norms, while hotels and eateries are required to shift to clean fuel alternatives.
CAQM will closely monitor the air quality and implement additional measures as required. The government has assured that all necessary actions will be taken to mitigate pollution and improve Delhi-NCR’s air quality in the coming weeks.
