GRAP-Stage 3 implemented in Delhi. What does it mean for the city with AQI 500+?

The Delhi government on Thursday announced that the GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) Stage 3 has been implemented for reducing air pollution and will come into effect from Friday, given the deteriorating air quality index and the thick smog that has blanketed the city since Wednesday.

Let's understand what GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) actually is -

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a comprehensive framework implemented in India, particularly in the National Capital Region (NCR), to combat rising air pollution levels. This plan was introduced by the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) in 2017 under the directions of the Supreme Court of India. Its primary goal is to categorize air pollution levels into different stages and define specific actions to mitigate pollution during each stage.

Context of GRAP

• GRAP is a short-term emergency response strategy focused on reducing pollution during severe episodes.

• It is particularly crucial during the winter months (October to February) when the air quality in the NCR deteriorates significantly due to seasonal factors such as crop residue burning, industrial emissions, and vehicular pollution.

• The plan operates within the framework of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) to reduce overall pollution levels.

  
  

Stages of GRAP -

1. Moderate to Poor (AQI 100-300)

2. Very Poor (AQI 301-400)

3. Severe (AQI 401-450)

4. Severe + or Emergency (AQI > 450)

As Delhi's Air Quality remained severe for several consecutive days GRAP Stage 3 has been implemented by the Delhi Government.

GRAP Stage 3:

GRAP Stage 3 refers to the third level of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which is a set of emergency measures implemented to tackle air pollution. GRAP is a dynamic framework that escalates actions based on the severity of air quality, with measures becoming stricter as pollution worsens.

Delhi air pollution: GRAP-3, stricter anti-pollution curbs in Delhi today as AQI plummets; What is allowed? - The Hindu

Key Aspects of GRAP Stage 3:

1. Trigger:

   • Stage 3 is implemented when the Air Quality Index (AQI) falls into the "Severe" category (AQI values between 401-450). This indicates dangerously high levels of pollutants like PM2.5 and PM10.

2. Measures Taken:

   • Restrictions on construction activities: All construction and demolition activities (except for projects critical to national security and healthcare) are strictly halted to control dust pollution.

   • Bann of BS-III Petrol and BS-IV diesel four-vehicles: These vehicles will face restrictions in Delhi to curb pollution and protect public health during the critical “severe” air quality phase.

   • Restrictions on inter-State Buses: To curb vehicular pollution in Delhi, all inter-state buses from NCR states are prohibited from entering the city, with exceptions made for electric buses, CNG-powered vehicles, and BS-VI compliant diesel buses.

   • Mining activities suspended: All Mining-related activities will be suspended in the region as part of efforts to reduce pollution from non-essential industrial operations.

   • Primary School Shift to Online Classes: To protect young children from harmful air quality during severe pollution levels, schools in Delhi will transition to online classes for students up to Class 5.

   • Water Sprinkling on Major Roads: Authorities will increase the daily sprinkling of water on major roads across Delhi to control Dust.

   • Closure of industries: Industries that use non-compliant fuels are shut down.

   • Ban on diesel generator sets: Except for essential services like hospitals, elevators, and telecom towers.

   • Traffic curbs: Increased deployment of traffic police to manage congestion and reduce vehicular emissions.

   • Encouragement of work-from-home: Authorities may advise businesses to allow employees to work from home to reduce traffic.

3. Public Advisories:

   • People are advised to limit outdoor physical activities.

   • The use of masks and air purifiers is recommended.

4. Health Impact:

   • Prolonged exposure to "Severe" AQI levels can lead to respiratory issues, cardiovascular diseases, and other health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions.

From public transport restrictions to online classes: What changes will Delhi see on Friday as GRAP 3 takes effect? - The Economic Times

Delhi often experiences severe air pollution during winter due to factors like stubble burning in neighboring states, vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, and climatic conditions like low wind speeds and temperature inversion. GRAP Stage 3 aims to prevent further deterioration of air quality and protect public health during such periods.

How to combat air pollution?

Here are some practical solutions to reduce air pollution:

• Use Public Transport or Carpool: Reduce vehicle emissions by sharing rides or opting for public transportation.

• Switch to Energy-Efficient Appliances: Save energy and lower pollution levels.

• Avoid Burning Waste: Burning garbage releases harmful toxins; compost organic waste instead.

• Improve Indoor Air Quality:

  • Ensure proper ventilation.

  • Use low-VOC paints and cleaning products.

  • Buy an air purifier like, which combines natural filtration and advanced technology to eliminate indoor pollutants effectively.

• Plant More Trees: They absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen.

Implementing these measures can significantly improve air quality and protect your health.

By adopting these steps, we can collectively reduce air pollution and create healthier environments, both indoors and outdoors. Small changes today can lead to a cleaner, greener tomorrow.