The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has announced the revocation of all Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage-III restrictions across the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR). This decision comes after a significant improvement in the region's air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) receding from the 'severe' category to 'poor' and 'moderate' levels. The lifting of these stringent measures brings considerable relief to various sectors, including construction, industry, and transport, which had been operating under severe constraints.
Background: Understanding GRAP and Delhi-NCR’s Air Crisis
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a set of emergency measures implemented to combat air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region. It was first notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in January 2017, following a Supreme Court directive, and is now enforced by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). GRAP classifies air quality into four stages, each with a corresponding set of escalating restrictions designed to prevent further deterioration and protect public health.
Genesis of GRAP
GRAP was conceived as a dynamic, pre-emptive, and graded approach to pollution control. Before its formalisation, ad-hoc measures were often implemented reactively. The plan aims to institutionalise a structured response mechanism, ensuring that specific actions are taken automatically as air quality worsens, rather than waiting for a crisis to unfold. Initially, the Environment Pollution (Prevention & Control) Authority (EPCA) was responsible for its implementation, a role later transferred to the CAQM.
The Four Stages of GRAP
GRAP outlines four distinct stages based on the average daily Air Quality Index (AQI):
- Stage-I (Poor): AQI between 201 and 300.
- Stage-II (Very Poor): AQI between 301 and 400.
- Stage-III (Severe): AQI between 401 and 450.
- Stage-IV (Severe+): AQI above 450.
Each stage mandates a progressively stricter set of actions by various government departments and agencies across Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
Historical Context of Delhi-NCR Air Pollution
Delhi and its surrounding NCR cities have consistently grappled with severe air pollution, particularly during the winter months from October to February. This period sees a confluence of adverse meteorological conditions (low wind speed, temperature inversions) and local emission sources (vehicular exhaust, industrial emissions, construction dust, biomass burning, and stubble burning in neighbouring states). The persistent challenge led to the establishment of the CAQM in 2020, replacing the EPCA, with a broader mandate and statutory powers to coordinate efforts across multiple states and central ministries.
Role of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)
The CAQM is a statutory body dedicated to addressing air pollution in the Delhi-NCR and adjoining areas. It plays a crucial role in planning, coordinating, and executing strategies for air quality improvement. The Commission’s responsibilities include conducting research, identifying pollution sources, implementing control measures, and ensuring compliance with environmental norms. It is the primary authority for invoking and revoking GRAP stages, based on real-time air quality data and forecasts.
Key Developments: Recent Changes and Lifted Restrictions
The decision to revoke GRAP-3 measures was officially communicated by the CAQM on December 2, 2023, following a review meeting that assessed the prevailing air quality situation across the Delhi-NCR. This move signifies a temporary reprieve after a period of heightened pollution levels.
CAQM’s Decision and Air Quality Improvement
The revocation order came after a continuous improvement in the region’s average AQI. For several consecutive days leading up to the decision, the 24-hour average AQI had remained below the 400-mark, which is the threshold for invoking GRAP Stage-III. On December 1, 2023, the average AQI in Delhi was recorded at 304, falling into the ‘very poor’ category but significantly lower than the ‘severe’ levels observed in the preceding weeks. Forecasts by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) indicated a likelihood of sustained improvement, prompting the CAQM to act.
Specific Restrictions Lifted Under GRAP Stage-III
The revocation of GRAP Stage-III brings an end to several stringent measures that had been in force since late November 2023. These restrictions were aimed at curbing emissions from major sources.
- Construction and Demolition Activities: All non-essential construction and demolition activities were prohibited across the NCR. This included earthwork, boring and drilling works, fabrication and welding operations, loading and unloading of construction materials, and grinding activities. Now, these activities can resume, subject to adherence to dust control norms under GRAP Stage-I and Stage-II.
- Operation of Specific Vehicles: Restrictions on the plying of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel light motor vehicles (LMVs) in Delhi and the NCR districts were lifted. This had affected a significant number of private vehicles and commercial fleets.
- Industrial Operations: Non-essential industrial operations in areas not running on approved fuels (like piped natural gas) were halted. With the revocation, these industries can now resume full operations.
- Brick Kilns and Hot Mix Plants: The operation of brick kilns and hot mix plants, which are significant contributors to particulate matter, was banned. These can now restart, provided they comply with emission standards.
- Mining and Stone Crushers: Mining activities and stone crushers were also prohibited under GRAP-3. These operations are now permitted to resume.
Remaining Restrictions Under GRAP Stage-I and Stage-II
While GRAP-3 restrictions have been lifted, it is crucial to note that GRAP Stage-I (‘Poor’ AQI) and Stage-II (‘Very Poor’ AQI) measures remain in force. The CAQM emphasised that all agencies must continue to implement actions under these lower stages.
GRAP Stage-I (AQI 201-300) Measures Still Active:
- Strict enforcement of dust control measures at construction and demolition sites.
- Regular sweeping and water sprinkling on roads to suppress dust.
- Ensuring proper disposal of construction and demolition waste.
- Prohibition of open burning of biomass, municipal solid waste, and other waste materials.
- Strict action against vehicles visibly emitting smoke and overloaded vehicles.
- Regular checking of industrial units for compliance with emission norms.
GRAP Stage-II (AQI 301-400) Measures Still Active:
- Intensified mechanised sweeping and water sprinkling on roads.
- Enhancement of public transport services and introduction of differential fares to encourage their use.
- Strict enforcement of PUC (Pollution Under Control) norms for vehicles.
- Prohibition of diesel generator sets, except for essential services.
- Increased frequency of public transport and encouraging people to use it.
- Enhanced vigilance for instances of garbage burning.
These ongoing measures underscore the continuous effort required to manage air quality even when it is not in the ‘severe’ category.
Impact: Who is Affected by the Changes
The revocation of GRAP-3 restrictions brings immediate relief and significant implications for various stakeholders across the Delhi-NCR region. The impact spans economic, social, and environmental dimensions.
Relief for the Construction Industry
The construction sector is one of the most heavily impacted by GRAP-3. Thousands of projects, ranging from large infrastructure developments to residential constructions, were halted.
- Economic Boost: The resumption of activities will lead to the revival of economic output in this crucial sector, which contributes significantly to the GDP and employment.
- Employment: Daily wage labourers, who faced unemployment or reduced income during the ban, can now return to work. This provides much-needed financial stability for a large segment of the workforce.
- Project Timelines: Developers can now resume work, helping to mitigate delays in project completion, which can otherwise lead to increased costs and penalties.
However, stringent dust control measures under GRAP-1 and GRAP-2 remain mandatory, requiring sites to implement measures like dust screens, water sprinkling, and covering construction materials.
Impact on the Transport Sector
The lifting of restrictions on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles offers immediate relief to vehicle owners and operators.
- Vehicle Owners: Owners of affected vehicles can now use their cars and commercial vehicles without fear of fines or impoundment. This is particularly beneficial for those who rely on these vehicles for their livelihood or daily commute.
- Logistics and Commerce: The transport of goods and services, which might have faced minor disruptions due to vehicle restrictions, will now operate more smoothly.
Despite this, the broader push towards cleaner fuels and electric vehicles continues, and strict PUC compliance remains a priority.
Industrial Operations and Economic Activity
Industries that were forced to shut down or scale back operations due to GRAP-3 can now resume full production.
- Manufacturing Units: Non-essential manufacturing units that were not using approved cleaner fuels (like PNG) can restart, preventing further production losses and supply chain disruptions.
- Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs): Many SMEs, which often operate on tighter margins, felt the pinch of forced shutdowns. Their revival is crucial for local economies.
This also means a reduction in economic losses for businesses and a return to normal for their employees.
Public Convenience and Health Considerations
While the lifting of restrictions improves convenience, the public remains affected by the fluctuating air quality.
- Reduced Inconvenience: The general public experiences less disruption in daily life, such as traffic restrictions and the closure of certain public facilities (though schools were not directly closed under GRAP-3 this time).
- Continued Vigilance: Despite the improvement, the air quality is still categorised as ‘very poor’ or ‘poor,’ meaning vulnerable groups (children, elderly, those with respiratory conditions) should still exercise caution and limit prolonged outdoor exposure.
The long-term health impacts of recurrent exposure to elevated pollution levels remain a significant concern, irrespective of the GRAP stage.
What Next: Monitoring and Long-Term Strategies
The revocation of GRAP-3 is a dynamic decision, subject to continuous review. The CAQM and other agencies remain vigilant, ready to re-impose restrictions if air quality deteriorates again. This highlights the ongoing nature of the battle against air pollution in the region.
Continuous Monitoring of Air Quality
The CAQM, in coordination with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and state pollution control boards, will maintain constant surveillance over the air quality in Delhi-NCR.
- Real-time Data: Data from numerous monitoring stations across the region will be analysed continuously.
- Forecasting: Meteorological forecasts and air quality predictions from agencies like SAFAR (System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research) will be crucial in anticipating future trends.
Should the AQI again cross the 400-mark and show a tendency to persist in the ‘severe’ category, GRAP-3, or even GRAP-4, could be re-invoked.
Long-Term Strategies for Air Pollution Control
Beyond the immediate GRAP measures, a multi-pronged, long-term approach is essential for sustainable air quality improvement.
Controlling Stubble Burning:
Efforts to curb agricultural stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh remain a priority. This includes promoting in-situ (mixing stubble into soil) and ex-situ (using stubble as biomass fuel) management techniques, providing machinery to farmers, and raising awareness.
Industrial Emission Norms:
The CAQM continues to push for the transition of industries to cleaner fuels like piped natural gas (PNG) and stricter emission standards for those using approved fuels. Regular inspections and penalties for non-compliance are key.
Vehicular Pollution Control:
Measures include promoting electric vehicles (EVs) through subsidies and infrastructure development, improving public transport networks, enforcing stringent PUC norms, and encouraging the phasing out of older, more polluting vehicles.
Road Dust Management:
Intensified mechanised sweeping, water sprinkling, and the use of dust suppressants on roads are ongoing efforts to control particulate matter from road dust.
Waste Management:
Strict enforcement against open burning of municipal solid waste and biomass is crucial. Promoting waste-to-energy plants and proper landfill management are also part of the strategy.
Green Cover Enhancement:
Large-scale tree plantation drives and protection of existing green spaces help absorb pollutants and improve ambient air quality.
Inter-State Coordination and Public Participation
The effectiveness of these strategies hinges on robust coordination among Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and the central government. Public awareness and participation are also vital, encouraging citizens to adopt cleaner practices and report pollution violations. The cyclical nature of Delhi-NCR’s air pollution crisis necessitates a sustained, collective effort from all stakeholders to achieve lasting improvements in air quality.
