How GRAP Aims to Combat Delhi’s Air Pollution Problem

Delhi, the capital city of India, faces a severe air pollution crisis every winter. The city’s air quality often deteriorates to hazardous levels, posing a significant threat to public health. To combat this issue, the government has implemented the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).

What is AQI?

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a tool used to communicate air quality conditions to the public. It measures the concentration of various pollutants in the air, such as particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone (O3). A higher AQI indicates worse air quality.

India’s AQI Scale

India uses a six-category AQI to report daily air quality. The categories are:

• Good (0-50): Air quality is satisfactory and poses little to no risk.
• Satisfactory (51-100): Air quality is acceptable, but sensitive groups may be affected.
• Moderate (101-200): Increased likelihood of health effects in sensitive groups.
• Poor (201-300): Increased likelihood of health effects in the general population.
• Very Poor (301-400): Health alert: Everyone may experience health effects.
• Severe (401-500): Health warning of emergency conditions.

GRAP: A Lifeline for Delhi’s Air

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a set of emergency measures implement to combat severe air pollution in Delhi-NCR. It is triggered when the AQI reaches certain thresholds. GRAP has four stages, each with progressively stricter measures.

Stage I (Poor): AQI between 201 and 300. Increase the monitoring of pollution sources and public awareness campaigns.

Stage II (Very Poor): AQI between 301 and 400. Stricter restrictions on construction activities and increase the frequency of mechanical road sweeping.

Stage III (Severe): AQI between 401 and 450. Further restrictions on construction activities, increase use of public transportation, and odd-even vehicle restrictions.

Stage IV (Severe Plus): AQI above 450. Emergency measures, including the closure of schools and colleges and the restriction of non-essential activities, implemente.

Delhi’s Struggle with Air Pollution

Despite the implementation of GRAP, Delhi continues to grapple with severe air pollution. Several factors contribute to this problem, including:

• Vehicle emissions: The increasing number of vehicles on Delhi’s roads is a major source of air pollution.
• Industrial emissions: Industries located in and around Delhi release pollutants into the air.
• Construction activities: Dust from construction sites contributes to air pollution.
• Biomass burning: The burning of crop residue in neighboring states, particularly Punjab and Haryana, is a significant source of air pollution in Delhi.
• Meteorological conditions: In winter, unfavorable meteorological conditions, such as low temperatures and calm winds, trap pollutants in the atmosphere, leading to a sharp increase in pollution levels.

The Impact of Air Pollution

Exposure to poor air quality can have serious health consequences, including respiratory diseases, heart disease, and lung cancer. Children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable to the effects of air pollution.

Conclusion

Delhi’s air pollution crisis is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach. While GRAP is a crucial tool in combating air pollution, it is not enough. To effectively address the problem, we need a comprehensive strategy involving stricter enforcement of pollution control measures, promoting the use of public transportation, and encouraging the adoption of cleaner technologies. Additionally, regional cooperation is essential to tackle the issue of cross-border pollution. By working together, we can improve Delhi’s air quality and create a healthier environment for future generations.