Delhi Air Quality
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has taken action by invoking Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The Air Quality Index (AQI) hit 248. It is expected to plunge further into the “Very Poor” category in the next few days.
According to the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, the air quality in Delhi-NCR has witnessed a decline in recent days. It has predictions of it entering the “Very Poor” category in the next 3-4 days. With winter approaching along with festivals, the situation is expected to worsen. The current AQI is on the brink of the “Very Poor” category. It is anticipated to reach this level by Monday or Tuesday.
Changes in Delhi-NCR under GRAP Stage II
Under GRAP Stage II, Delhi Pollution Control Board and other pollution control boards in the National Capital Region (NCR) will be responsible for implementing various guidelines. These measures may include more stringent actions at higher levels, such as banning construction activities, closing educational institutions, and restricting the entry of heavy vehicles.
Guidelines for Citizens under GRAP Stage II
Use Public Transport: Citizens are encouraged to rely on public transport and minimize the use of personal vehicles.
Opt for Less Congested Routes: Use technology to identify less congested routes, even if they are slightly longer.
Regularly Replace Air Filters: Ensure that air filters in automobiles are replaced at recommended intervals.
Avoid Dust-Generating Activities: Refrain from dust-generating construction activities during the months of October to January.
Prevent Open Burning: Do not engage in open burning of solid waste and biomass.
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#InPics: With #Delhi's #AQI in the #severe category, many of the capital's popular monuments and public spaces are engulfed in #smog #DelhiAirPollution #DelhiAirEmergency #DelhiAQI #AirPollution #Pollution #DelhiPollution #RashtrapatiBhavan #IndiaGate #Akshardham #DelhiNews pic.twitter.com/g1fyCmFm2H
— Delhi Times (@DelhiTimesTweet) November 4, 2022
Daily Road Cleaning: Implement mechanical or vacuum sweeping and water sprinkling on identified roads daily.
Dust Suppression: Conduct water sprinkling and use dust suppressants (at least every alternate day during non-peak hours) on roads, especially at hotspots and heavy traffic corridors. Ensure proper disposal of collected dust.
Dust Control at Construction Sites: Intensify inspections for strict enforcement of dust control measures at construction and demolition sites.
Hotspot Remedial Measures: Focus on targeted action to reduce air pollution in all identified hotspots in the NCR. Intensify measures specific to the sectors contributing to poor air quality in each hotspot.
Discourage Generator Use: Ensure uninterrupted power supply to discourage the use of alternate power-generating sets/equipment.
Regulated DG Sets: Enforce a strict schedule for regulated operations of generator sets across all sectors in the NCR.
Traffic Management: Coordinate traffic movements and deploy adequate personnel at intersections and traffic congestion points to maintain a smooth traffic flow.
Public Awareness: Use newspapers, TV, and radio to inform the public about air pollution levels and provide guidance on minimizing polluting activities.
Parking Fee Adjustment: Increase parking fees to discourage private transport use.
Enhanced Public Transport: Expand CNG/electric bus and metro services by introducing additional fleets and increasing service frequency.
Avoid Open Burning: Resident Welfare Associations should provide electric heaters to security staff to discourage open burning of biomass and municipal solid waste during winters.
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As Delhi’s air quality continues to deteriorate, the government has initiated GRAP Stage II to mitigate the impact. These measures encompass guidelines for citizens, an 11-point action plan, and steps to promote cleaner transport options. The goal is to address air pollution effectively and protect the health and well-being of Delhi-NCR residents.
