Delhi’s Air Quality Crisis: Stage III Anti-Pollution Measures Enforced
New Delhi is facing severe air pollution, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching alarming levels. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to combat this issue. This stage includes a complete halt on construction and demolition activities, except for essential government projects, and a ban on certain vehicles in Delhi and surrounding areas.
Understanding GRAP Stages
The GRAP is divided into four stages based on air quality: Stage I (‘poor’), Stage II (‘very poor’), Stage III (‘severe’), and Stage IV (‘severe plus’). Currently, Delhi’s AQI is in the ‘severe’ category, prompting the implementation of Stage III measures.
Measures Under Stage III
The CAQM has outlined an 11-point action plan, including increased road sweeping, intensified water sprinkling, and enhanced public transport services. A strict ban on dust-generating activities is in place, and polluting industries are shut down. Restrictions on certain vehicles and interstate buses are also enforced.
Authorities are considering online classes for young children to reduce exposure to pollution. The CAQM urges citizens to follow guidelines, use cleaner transport, and avoid coal and wood for heating. Public cooperation is essential to mitigate health risks from the severe pollution.
As of 1 pm, the AQI in Delhi was 425, indicating a dense smog layer over the city.
Doubts Revealed
Delhi -: Delhi is the capital city of India, known for its rich history and culture. It is also one of the most populated cities in the country.
Air Quality -: Air quality refers to how clean or polluted the air is. Good air quality means the air is clean and safe to breathe, while poor air quality can be harmful to health.
Commission for Air Quality Management -: This is a government body in India responsible for monitoring and managing air quality in the National Capital Region, including Delhi.
Stage III -: Stage III refers to a level in the Graded Response Action Plan, which is a set of measures to control air pollution. It is implemented when air quality becomes very poor.
Graded Response Action Plan -: This is a plan with different stages of actions to reduce air pollution, depending on how bad the air quality is. It includes measures like stopping construction and limiting vehicle use.
AQI -: AQI stands for Air Quality Index. It is a number used to communicate how polluted the air currently is or how polluted it is forecast to become.
Severe category -: When the AQI is in the ‘severe’ category, it means the air is very polluted and can cause health problems for everyone, especially those with existing health issues.
Public cooperation -: Public cooperation means that people are asked to help and follow the rules to reduce pollution, like using public transport or avoiding burning waste.
