Ban on Diesel Generator Sets in Delhi-NCR
Starting from October 1, Diesel Generator (DG) sets in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) will face a ban. It is aimed to combat the region’s deteriorating air quality. However, there is a crucial exception allowing their use in designated “emergency services” until December 31 of this year, as announced by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in a statement issued on Friday.
The CAQM has consistently emphasized that the extensive use of DG sets significantly contributes to the worsening air quality in Delhi-NCR. This move to restrict their operation is part of a broader effort to address air pollution in the region.
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Emergency Services Exemption
To ensure that essential emergency services are not disrupted and to provide sufficient time for implementing necessary emission control measures, the Commission has made a one-time exception. It grants permission for DG sets of all capacities to operate exclusively for designated emergency services in the NCR. This exception applies even during periods of restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), but it is valid only until December 31.
Regulated operations of Diesel Generator (DG) sets in NCR
— PIB India (@PIB_India) September 29, 2023
➡️ As a one-time exception Commission has now permitted DG Sets for all capacity ranges, to be run only for emergency services in the NCR, even under periods of restrictions under the GRAP, only up to 31.12.2023
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The emergency services covered by this exemption include elevators, escalators, travelators, medical facilities (hospitals, nursing homes, and healthcare establishments), railway services, metro services, airports, ISBTs, sewage treatment plants, water pumping stations, and projects related to national security, defense, and national importance.
Revised Schedule for DG Set Operations
In a comprehensive review, the Commission has issued a revised schedule for regulated DG-set operations, replacing all previous directives, orders, and guidelines related to DG-set regulations. These regulations apply to all sectors in the NCR, including industrial, commercial, residential, and office establishments. DG sets will be allowed to operate as backup against regular power supply failures.
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The Commission’s decision to ban DG sets is rooted in their contribution to the deteriorating air quality in Delhi-NCR. This move aligns with broader efforts to address air pollution and improve the region’s environmental conditions. Previously, a ban on diesel generator sets in the industrial and commercial sectors of the NCR was enforced from May 15. It faced opposition from resident welfare associations.
Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) serves as an emergency response mechanism, contingent on Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI). It involves multiple stakeholders, implementing agencies, and authorities to tackle worsening air quality situations in the Delhi-NCR region. GRAP will be in effect from October 1 across the entire NCR.
The ban on Diesel Generator sets in Delhi-NCR represents a crucial step in addressing air quality concerns.
