GRAP-1 implemented in Delhi-NCR, find out what restrictions will be in place?

New Delhi: As winter approaches, Delhi's air is becoming toxic. To deal with this, GRAP-1 has been implemented, so that the level of pollution in the capital's air can be reduced. This order has been issued by the National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Air Quality Management Commission.

To implement GRAP-1, the AQI of the area should be between 201 to 300. Today, Wednesday, at around 9 am, AQI 233 was recorded in the capital. This is kept in the poor category. Know what restrictions will be in place in the capital during this period.

Air is rapidly becoming toxic, AQI has risen to 244

The AQI is rapidly rising in areas of the NCR. Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 179 (in the "moderate" category) on October 20th. However, it increased sharply, reaching 233 at 9 a.m. and 244 at 2 p.m. on October 21st. This action has been taken due to this. Furthermore, IMD/IITM forecasts indicate that the AQI will remain in the "poor" category in the coming days.

What restrictions will be in place during GRAP-I?

Construction work will be monitored

• Dust control measures are essential at construction sites.
• Proper removal of construction and demolition debris.
• Sites that violate the rules may face action.
• It has been made mandatory to operate anti-smog guns at construction sites.

Note: GRAP-1 does not automatically impose a blanket ban on all construction activities.

Burning of garbage will be prohibited

• Strict enforcement of the ban on burning garbage in the open.
• Municipal corporations have to ensure regular lifting of solid waste and construction debris.
• Measures to prevent the spread of dust and garbage in the open.

Street cleaning and dust control

• Cleaning and sprinkling of water on roads with machines.
• Measures to prevent dust from flying on roads and open areas.
• Adherence to dust control regulations at construction sites.

Rules related to trains and buses

• Existing NGT and Supreme Court orders related to old petrol-diesel vehicles are implemented.
• The revised GRAP-1 also includes restrictions on the entry of BS-IV and below standard buses coming from NCR and adjoining states.
• Traffic police will intensify their campaign against vehicles without PUC. Any violation will result in a hefty fine.

GRAP-1 implemented immediately, every work will be monitored

The order states that it decides to immediately implement all actions under Stage-1 of the existing GRAP across the entire NCR. The actions taken by all concerned agencies under Stage-1 of the existing GRAP across the entire NCR will be implemented, monitored, and reviewed to ensure that AQI levels do not fall further.

The order, issued by RK Aggarwal, member convener and Director (Technical) of the sub-committee, has been sent to the chief secretaries, transport departments, pollution control boards, and police commissioners of Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. Agencies have been instructed to maintain strict vigilance to prevent further deterioration of air quality. Citizens have also been urged to follow the Citizen's Charter and contribute to reducing air pollution.