Delhi Faces Severe Air Quality as GRAP Stage II Begins
Delhi’s air quality has plunged into the “very poor” category, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeding 310 on Tuesday. As a result, authorities have enforced Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This stage restricts the use of coal and firewood, including in tandoors at restaurants, and bans diesel generators except for emergencies.
Smog Engulfs Delhi-NCR
Smog covered areas like Noida and other parts of Delhi, worsening the pollution. Out of the 36 air monitoring stations, 26 reported AQI levels in the red zone, crossing 300 in several localities. Hotspots like Anand Vihar, Mundka, and Shadipur reported AQI levels ranging from 334 to 430. The situation is especially concerning as winter approaches, a time when low wind speeds and temperature drops trap pollution close to the ground.
What is GRAP and Why is It Enforced?
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a set of measures to tackle pollution in Delhi-NCR. It consists of four stages based on AQI levels:
- Stage I: ‘Poor’ (AQI 201-300)
- Stage II: ‘Very Poor’ (AQI 301-400)
- Stage III: ‘Severe’ (AQI 401-450)
- Stage IV: ‘Severe Plus’ (AQI >450)
In Stage II, restrictions target pollution sources like vehicular emissions, construction activities, and dust pollution, with a focus on reducing public health risks.
Factors Contributing to Pollution
Major contributors to Delhi’s air pollution include vehicle emissions, which account for around 10.9%, stubble burning in neighboring states, and construction dust. Satellite data also recorded over 60 farm fires in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, adding to the pollution load.
Rising Temperatures and Winter’s Effect
While pollution spikes, Delhi is also witnessing fluctuating temperatures. The maximum temperature on Monday reached 34.7°C, two degrees above normal. The cooler winter months could worsen pollution as weather conditions like low wind speeds and high moisture levels trap pollutants in the atmosphere.
As Delhi’s air quality reaches alarming levels, it’s time to take action. Are you concerned about the impact of the city’s pollution on your health? Stay updated with the latest developments, expert opinions, and practical tips to protect yourself.
At The News Buzz, we bring you the real stories behind Delhi’s air pollution.
