As the air quality drops to dangerous levels, the Delhi-NCR area is experiencing extreme pollution. In response, Stage 4 limitations under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) have been reinstated by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). The worrisome increase in pollution levels brought on by bad weather, car emissions, and local contaminants is what these actions are intended to stop.
Air Quality Deterioration Triggers GRAP 4 Measures
Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has climbed significantly, surpassing 400 in certain places and falling into the “Severe Plus” category. Poor air quality is a result of sluggish winds, low temperatures, and dense fog, according to CAQM. Pollutants have accumulated as a result of the lack of dispersion, and immediate action is required to stop further degradation.
Key Restrictions Under GRAP 4
Strict steps to resolve the situation are introduced in Stage 4 of GRAP.
Prohibition of Construction operations: With the exception of necessary projects, all construction and demolition operations have been suspended.
Vehicle Restrictions: Entry into Delhi is forbidden to non-essential diesel trucks. Additionally, save for necessary servicing, BS-IV and older diesel cars are prohibited.
Transition to Hybrid Classes: Students in Classes 9 and 11 must attend hybrid classes, as required by law. Physical attendance is permitted for classes 10 and 12.
Work from Home Measures: To cut down on vehicle pollution, authorities have urged 50% of workers in public and commercial offices to work from home.
Causes of Rising Pollution
The winter months in Delhi-NCR see a sharp decline in air quality for a number of reasons:
Stubble Burning: Burning agricultural leftovers is a major source of pollution in neighbouring states.
Weather: Pollutants are trapped under a covering of low temperatures and fog.
Vehicle Emissions: Particulate matter in the air is increased by a combination of excessive diesel consumption and increased vehicle use.
Firecrackers and Local Sources: The problem is made worse by industrial pollutants and celebratory firecrackers.
Impact on Daily Life
The capital’s everyday life has been impacted by the extreme pollution levels:
Travel Disruptions: Commuters have been impacted by the delays and detours that dense fog has generated in trains and aeroplanes.
Health Concerns: Children and the elderly are particularly susceptible to respiratory problems, which are on the rise in the area.
Economic Impacts: Businesses and daily wagers have been impacted by restrictions on commercial and construction activity.
Appeal to Citizens
Citizens have been exhorted by the CAQM to follow the GRAP Citizen Charter. This entails limiting the use of private automobiles, taking public transportation, and staying indoors. To reduce health hazards, residents are urged to use air purifiers at home and wear masks.
Conclusion
The reinstatement of GRAP 4 limitations emphasises how urgently the air quality situation in Delhi-NCR has to be addressed. To prevent pollution and provide a healthy environment for everyone, residents must work together and enforce legislation strictly.