GRAP-4 revoked in NCR as air quality improvesGRAP Stage IV revoked in Delhi-NCR, but ban on BS-IV diesel and BS-III petrol vehicles remains

In a positive turn for Delhi-NCR, the Centre’s panel on air quality has revoked Stage IV curbs under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), following a noticeable dip in pollution levels. According to an official order issued on Tuesday, the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) at 4 PM was recorded at 369, showing a declining trend.

Meteorological forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology suggest that the air quality will improve further in the coming days, due to favorable weather conditions.

What’s not allowed in GRAP Stage IV curbs?

Under Stage IV of the GRAP, strict measures were enforced to curb air pollution, including:

• A ban on all construction activities in Delhi-NCR.
• A prohibition on the entry of non-essential polluting trucks into Delhi.
• Mandatory hybrid mode classes for all schools except for classes 10 and 12.
• In addition, non-essential diesel trucks were restricted, and BS-IV and older diesel-run vehicles were banned, except for those involved in essential services.

What are the current anti-pollution measures in force in the Delhi-NCR?

Although Stage IV curbs have been lifted, restrictions under Stage I, Stage II, and Stage III remain in effect. These measures include:

• Hybrid mode for classes up to 5 (with online education options where available).
• Restriction on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel cars in Delhi and nearby NCR districts.
• A ban on non-essential diesel-operated vehicles like medium goods vehicles with BS-IV or older standards.

What are the different air quality categories under GRAP?

The GRAP classifies air quality into four stages based on AQI levels:

• Stage I (Poor): AQI 201-300
• Stage II (Very Poor): AQI 301-400
• Stage III (Severe): AQI 401-450
• Stage IV (Severe Plus): AQI above 450

Why do air pollution levels rise in the Delhi-NCR this time of the year?

During the winter months, pollution in Delhi-NCR tends to worsen due to a combination of factors like vehicle emissions, stubble burning in neighbouring states, firecrackers, and other local sources of pollution, leading to hazardous air quality levels.

What are the major health risks from Delhi’s air pollution?

Doctors have warned that breathing Delhi’s polluted air is akin to smoking about 10 cigarettes a day. Prolonged exposure to such high levels of pollution can lead to serious health issues, including asthma, bronchitis, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.