The second stage of the Graduated Response Action Plan (GRAP-II), implemented by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), came into force on October 22. The decision was taken after reviewing the air quality scenario in the area as per the CAQM order.

As of 4 pm on October 21, the national capital’s AQI stood at 310, which falls under the ‘very low’ category according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

“In order to prevent further deterioration of air quality, the Subcommittee decided that all actions envisaged under Stage II of GRAP-Very Poor Air Quality be implemented by all relevant agencies in the NCR, in addition to the stage -I actions already in force, from 8:00 a.m. on 22.10.2024 in the National Capital Region (NCR),” the order reads .

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and IIT Madras (IITM) have predicted that the air quality in Delhi may remain in the ‘very poor’ category between 301 and 400 in the coming days. IMD and IITM said this could be due to unfavorable weather and climate conditions as well as calm winds.

GRAP-II measures and restrictions include:

1. Perform daily mechanical sweeping/vacuuming and watering of identified roads.
2. Ensure water sprinkling as well as use of dust suppressants (at least every other day, outside peak hours) on roads to stop road dust, especially in hot spots, corridors heavy traffic, vulnerable areas and proper disposal of dust collected at designated sites/dumps.
3. Intensify inspections for strict enforcement of dust control measures at C&D sites.
4. Ensure focused and targeted action to reduce air pollution in all identified hotspots in the NCR. Intensify corrective measures for the predominant sector(s) contributing to poor air quality in each of these hotspots.
5. Ensure uninterrupted power supply to discourage the use of alternative power generation units/equipment (DG units, etc.).
6. Strictly implement the schedule of regulated operations of DG posts in all sectors of the NCR, including industrial, commercial, residential, etc., in accordance with Instruction No. 76 dated 29.09.2023.
7. Synchronize traffic movements and deploy adequate personnel at intersections/congestion points for smooth traffic flow.
8. Newspaper/TV/radio alert to inform people about air pollution levels and the do’s and don’ts to minimize polluting activities.
9. Increase vehicle parking fees to discourage private transport.
10. Increase CNG/electric bus and metro services by introducing additional fleet and increasing frequency of service.
11. Resident Welfare Associations must necessarily provide electric heaters to security personnel to avoid open burning of biomass/MSW during winters.

Additionally, the CAQM ordered that dust-generating construction activities be avoided from October to January. He also said that solid waste and biomass should not be burned in the open.

The central body urged citizens to use public transport, minimize the use of personal vehicles and take a less congested route to travel. He also advised people to regularly replace the air filters of their automobiles at the recommended intervals.