Syllabus: GS3/ Environment
In News
- The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked Stage-II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the entire National Capital Region (NCR) as Delhi’s air quality slipped into the “Very Poor” category (AQI 301–400) ahead of winter.
- Stage-II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) limits the use of diesel generators, ban on coal and firewood etc.
What is GRAP?
- Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a set of emergency measures implemented in Delhi-NCR to control air pollution based on the Air Quality Index (AQI) levels.
- It was formulated by the Environment Pollution (Prevention & Control) Authority (EPCA) and enforced by CAQM from 2021.
- GRAP is divided into four stages corresponding to AQI levels:
- Stage I – Poor (AQI 201–300)
- Stage II – Very Poor (AQI 301–400)
- Stage III – Severe (AQI 401–450)
- Stage IV – Severe+ (AQI >450)
Why Do Air Quality Deteriorate in NCR during Winters?
- Stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana.
- Low wind speed and temperature inversion trapping pollutants.
- Vehicular emissions, construction dust, and Diwali fireworks add to the load.
- Urban heat island effect and regional topography aggravate stagnation of pollutants.
About CAQM
- Constituted under: The Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021.
- Jurisdiction: Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
- Purpose: To coordinate and implement region-wide measures for air quality improvement, replacing the earlier EPCA.
Source: TH
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