‘Very Poor’ Air Quality: Delhi Restricts Diesel Generators, Construction; Know Other Steps To Be Implemented

New Delhi: It’s that time of the year when India’s Capital struggles to breathe.

As air quality levels reached alarming levels in Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR), authorities on Monday decided to implement Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), starting at 8 am on October 22.

GRAP II stage is ordered when Air Quality Index (AQI) reaches ‘very poor’ level — ranging between 301-400.

“In an effort to prevent further deterioration of the air quality, the Sub-Committee decided that all actions as envisaged under Stage II of the GRAP-Very Poor Air Quality be implemented by all the agencies concerned in the NCR, in addition to the Stage-I actions already in force, from 8:00 A.M. of 22.10.2024 in the National Capital Region (NCR),” Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) said in statement.

According to AQICN website, several places in Delhi and NCR reported poor air quality.

An AQI of 226 was recorded in Anand Vihar, categorised as ‘Unhealthy’, while Mother Dairy Plant, ITO, ITI Shahdara and other areas reported AQI of ‘Unhealthy’ to ‘Very Unhealthy’.

Key Actions Under GRAP II

* CAQM will invoke restrictions, including a ban on diesel generators and construction work.

* Daily mechanical or vacuum sweeping and water sprinkling on identified roads, particularly in high-traffic areas and hotspots.

* Dust suppressants to be used at least every alternate day during non-peak hours, and collected dust will be properly disposed of at designated sites.

* Inspections at construction and demolition sites will be intensified to enforce strict dust control measures.

* Specific actions will focus on pollution hotspots across Delhi.

* To limit use of diesel generators, an uninterrupted power supply will be maintained, and a regulated schedule for generator operation will be enforced.

* People have been advised to use public transportation, regularly replace their automobile air filters and limit dust-generating construction activities until January.

* Additional traffic personnel will be deployed at busy junctions and vehicle parking fees will be hiked to discourage use of private transport.

* Additional bus and metro services will be started in the city.