CAQM amends GRAP Stages III & IV: Stricter measures enforced in NCR
Stricter Air Pollution Measures in Delhi-NCR
New Rules for Schools and Offices
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has updated the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to tackle rising air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR). The new rules make it mandatory for NCR states to stop physical classes up to Class V under GRAP Stage III and up to Class XII under GRAP Stage IV. This change removes the previous discretion of state governments.
Additionally, under Stage III, state governments must now implement staggered timings for public offices and municipal bodies to reduce traffic and emissions. A "mask advisory" has also been introduced under Stage IV, urging people to wear masks outdoors during hazardous air quality periods.
These changes come as Delhi-NCR's air quality has worsened, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching the 'Severe+' category, exceeding 450. Environmentalist Vimlendu Jha compared the GRAP Stage IV measures to a lockdown but emphasized the need for long-term solutions to address pollution causes like stubble burning.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts moderate to dense fog in the coming days, which could worsen the pollution by trapping particles near the ground. While CAQM's amendments show a commitment to fighting air pollution, experts call for sustainable measures for lasting improvements.
Doubts Revealed
Delhi-NCR
Delhi-NCR refers to the National Capital Region, which includes Delhi and nearby areas in the states of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. It's a big area where many people live and work.
CAQM
CAQM stands for the Commission for Air Quality Management. It's a group that makes rules to help keep the air clean and safe to breathe in places like Delhi-NCR.
GRAP
GRAP means Graded Response Action Plan. It's a set of steps that are taken to reduce air pollution when it gets really bad.
Stage III and Stage IV
These are levels in the GRAP that tell us how bad the air pollution is. Stage III is very bad, and Stage IV is even worse, so stricter rules are needed to protect people's health.
Severe+ category
This is a way to describe how bad the air pollution is. 'Severe+' means the air is very dirty and can be harmful to breathe.
India Meteorological Department
This is a government department in India that studies the weather and makes forecasts. They help us know what the weather will be like, such as if there will be fog.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *