CAQM imposes GRAP-2 curbs in Delhi-NCR as air quality hits very poor category
The Commission for Air Quality Management activated stage two emergency measures after the Air Quality Index in Delhi rose to 324.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Monday implemented Stage 2 measures of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi and the National Capital Region. This decision follows the air quality slipping into the 'very poor' category for the first time this season, according to reports by The New Indian Express and Scroll.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi rose from 117 on October 31 to 261 on November 1, reaching 324 on November 2. The CAQM stated this sharp increase was due to unfavourable meteorological conditions. As of 6.05 pm, the Sameer application showed an average AQI of 327 in the national capital.
Under the Stage 2 restrictions, the use of firewood and coal, including in tandoors at restaurants and hotels, is banned. The measures also prohibit diesel generator sets except for essential and emergency services. Other actions include mechanical road sweeping, water sprinkling to control dust, and increased inspections at demolition and construction sites.
The CAQM noted that the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology forecast that air quality is likely to remain in the 'very poor' category in the coming days. GRAP is a set of emergency measures triggered when air quality reaches specific thresholds to prevent further deterioration.
The framework includes four stages: GRAP-1 for AQI between 201 and 300, GRAP-2 for 301 to 400, GRAP-3 for 401 to 500, and GRAP-4 for levels above 450.