Context:
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR and adjoining areas has enforced Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) after Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) slipped into the “poor” category for the first time in three months.
Key Highlights / Details:
- Implementation of GRAP Stage I:
- CAQM invoked Stage I measures to tackle rising pollution in the Delhi-NCR region with immediate effect.
- These measures include mechanised road sweeping, dust suppression, water sprinkling at construction sites, and strict enforcement of pollution control at industrial units.
- Air Quality Status:
- Delhi’s AQI was recorded at 204 (poor category) as of 4 p.m., as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
- The “poor” category corresponds to AQI levels between 201–300, while “severe” is between 401–500.
- Weather Conditions:
- Maximum temperature: 32.6°C, minimum: 24.9°C.
- Meteorological factors such as low wind speed, dry conditions, and stubble burning contribute to deteriorating air quality.
- Periodic Enforcement:
- GRAP measures are invoked seasonally before winter, when pollution levels typically spike in the NCR.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- GRAP: Framework by CAQM for graded measures to prevent, control, and abate air pollution in Delhi-NCR.
- CAQM: Statutory body under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.
- AQI Categories:
- 0–50: Good
- 51–100: Satisfactory
- 101–200: Moderate
- 201–300: Poor
- 301–400: Very Poor
- 401–500: Severe
Relevant Mains Points:
- Environmental Governance: Implementation of graded frameworks for urban pollution control.
- Policy Challenge: Ensuring inter-state coordination among NCR states (Delhi, Haryana, UP, Rajasthan).
- Socio-economic Dimension: Health impacts of prolonged poor air quality on urban populations.