Air pollution in Delhi: As Delhi’s air quality remains in the ‘poor’ category for a second consecutive day, with pollution levels reaching 234, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked the phase I of the graduated response action plan (GRAP). across the National Capital Region (NCR) starting at 8 a.m. on October 15.

According to the daily AQI bulletin provided by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s daily average air quality index (AQI) was 234. An AQI between zero and 50 is considered ” good”, 51 and 100 as “satisfactory”, 101. and 200 “moderate”, 201 and 300 “poor”, 301 and 400 “very poor” and 401 and 500 “severe”.

“The Sub-Committee unanimously decided that all actions envisaged under Phase I of GRAP – “Poor” Air Quality (AQI DELHI between 201 and 300) – would be seriously implemented by all agencies concerned, from 8:00 a.m. on October 15 in the NCR,” CAQM said in a statement.

27-point action plan

Delhi and its neighboring areas will implement a 27-point action plan aimed at tackling pollution and improving the city’s air quality.

Actions during Phase I include ensuring appropriate implementation of dust mitigation measures in construction and demolition (C&D) activities and effective environmental management of C&D waste.

Here is a list of Phase I restrictions

• Do not allow construction and demolition activities in projects with plot sizes equal to or above 500 m², which are not registered on NCR state web portals for remote monitoring of mitigation measures dust.
• Carry out periodic mechanized sweeping and water sprinkling of roads and ensure scientific disposal of dust collected at designated sites/dumps.
• Strictly enforce NGT/Supreme Court orders on vehicles that are too old.
• Ensure that only approved fuels are used by industries in the NCR, including in brick kilns and hot mix plants, and enforce closure in case of violations.
• Strictly enforce court/tribunal orders regarding the ban on firecrackers.
• Strictly enforce total ban on coal/firewood as fuel in tandoors of hotels, restaurants and open restaurants.
• Ensure that construction and demolition materials and waste are properly stored/contained, duly covered within the premises.
• Ensure transportation of construction and demolition waste in covered vehicles and recycling at an appropriate processing facility.
• Ensure regular lifting and proper disposal of industrial waste from industrial and undeveloped areas.

Delhi government bans sale and use of firecrackers

Earlier today, the Delhi government imposed an immediate ban on the production, storage, sale and use of all kinds of firecrackers in the national capital, effective till January 1. The announcement was made by Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai, who urged city residents to support the government’s efforts to reduce air pollution.

Rai in a post on January 1. The Delhi government has issued instructions regarding the ban, and we seek cooperation from all Delhiites.”

The Delhi Pollution Control Board has issued detailed instructions to ensure effective implementation of the ban, providing for strict penalties for violations. The ban, which applies to all forms of firecrackers, including those sold online, comes ahead of the worsening winter season due to stubble burning, falling wind speeds and other seasonal factors.

Also read: Delhi govt bans sale, use of firecrackers to reduce air pollution, seeks ‘cooperation’ from residents

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